Earlier this year, we introduced the NTLP Torchbearer Club. Torchbearers commit to a monthly donation in support of NTLP’s activities, and we’ve already seen many alumni, parents of alumni, and other NTLP supporters sign-up. To celebrate this vital community, we’ll be choosing a Torchbearer of the Month (ToM) for a blog bio. If you’d like to see a complete list of Torchbearers or learn more about the Torchbearer Club, visit our Torchbearer page.
Our inaugural ToM is …
Sophia (right) with her daughter Samantha who attended NTLP last year!
Sophia Coria
Sophia is a high school teacher from San Gabriel Valley, CA, currently living in San Dimas, CA. In addition to being a Torchbearer, Sophia has been an integral part of NTLP’s leadership for more than a decade, contributing in a wide variety of essential ways.
When was your first NTLP camp?
I attended Riverside, 1998, the summer before my senior year. And then St. Mary’s in 1999.
What is your favorite NTLP memory?
Wow, there are soooo many. I’ve had great times with everyone. But I’d have to say when my daughter received the pink NTLP shirt from [NTLP Founding Director] Laura Segura at the closing ceremony, I was witnessing my passion passed on to the next generation.
Sophia at her 1st NTLP Camp (UC Riverside, 1998)
Why did you decide to become a Torchbearer?
I continue supporting NTLP because I know how much of a difference this program can have on a teen. I have witnessed it within myself, as a friend, as a sister, as a teacher, but most of all as a mother. I want to help NTLP as often as I can. This way [as a Torchbearer] lets me help a little every month.
Besides being a Torchbearer, how else are you involved with NTLP?
I currently sit on the Board of Directors. I try to help during the year when I can. During the summer I move in with Laura and help plan and pack for the summer. At camp, I help Laura run the program and keep things in order. I also design the summer shirts. I try to help out as much as I can in things I know best. [Sophia earned a degree in Graphic Design at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in addition to a degree in Communications from the University of La Verne & a Master's in Education from the University of Phoenix.]
In the past 15 years, I was a camp staff member. I created the marketing materials for the last 5 years or so. Also, I created the website…I’ve had my hands in a ton of things within the program.
