News & Stories

Welcome to “Foundation Faces,” our blog series that takes you beyond the polished exterior to share the real-life stories of the people who make The Cooper Foundation thrive.

This week, we’re spotlighting Sofia, our New Gift Officer for the Cape May Region, Cooper University Hospital Cape Regional. Since joining The Cooper Foundation, Sofia has brought a heartfelt commitment to strengthening community relationships and advancing our mission in Cape May County.

Here’s more about Sofia in her own words

What drew you to the Foundation initially?
I feel fortunate to have grown up in such a special place as Cape May County, and I knew I wanted to return to the shore after graduation. During my job search, I reached out to Cape Regional Medical Center, now Cooper Cape, to express my interest in any potential Marketing and Communications opportunities. Through several meetings, it became clear that they were looking for someone familiar with the area, the hospital, and the community dynamics. During the interview process, I realized The Foundation was the perfect fit for me. It offered the opportunity to return to my hometown, strengthen community relationships, and contribute to an organization whose mission aligns closely with my values. I am truly grateful to be in this position and to witness the lasting impact we have on the community firsthand.

What is most rewarding about working at the Foundation for you?
The most rewarding aspect of being part of The Foundation has been seeing the positive impact our hospital system has had on the people of our community. It’s truly heartwarming to witness the generosity of those who, in turn, are eager to give back as a way of showing their gratitude. This wonderful cycle of giving enables The Foundation to continue supporting Cooper Cape in bringing more healthcare opportunities and advancements to Cape May County.

What skills or lessons have you gained since your start here that will help you with your job/life going forward?
Since joining The Foundation in November, I’ve learned so much, both professionally and personally. One of the biggest takeaways for me thus far has been the importance of building genuine relationships and truly listening to people. Whether with community members, donors, or colleagues, understanding different perspectives has been crucial in creating lasting connections that make a real impact. These lessons will not only contribute to my growth in my career but will also positively impact my personal life.

Who or what inspires you?
My family inspires me. Growing up, they instilled in me the importance of giving back and being an active member of the community. I was fortunate to have role models who dedicated their personal time to clubs and organizations they were passionate about. This mindset was passed down to my brother and me, and we eagerly participated in local volunteer opportunities and events where we could make a difference. That sense of fulfillment was always incredibly rewarding. Now, being able to carry this forward in my career has given me a renewed sense of purpose, and I am truly grateful to be part of it.

What do you like to do when you’re not working? OR describe your perfect day off.
When I’m not working, I love being outdoors and staying active. Whether it’s playing tennis, sailing, hiking, or simply enjoying our beautiful beaches, I truly value my time in nature. I also have a passion for traveling and discovering new places, and I’ve developed a great appreciation for photography and videography—you can count on me to document the experience. On top of that, I enjoy cooking and experimenting with new recipes—it’s a fun way to unwind and get creative.  I’m truly grateful to be part of this team during such an exciting time, and I’m looking forward to what’s to come.

As we conclude this week’s Foundation Faces feature on Sofia, her journey reflects the importance of community, connection, and a shared commitment to Cooper’s mission. Sofia’s dedication to building genuine relationships and supporting impactful initiatives in Cape May County highlights the extraordinary difference that thoughtful, localized efforts can make.

Thank you for taking the time to get to know Sofia with us and stay tuned for more stories celebrating the remarkable individuals who bring our mission to life.