President
Dr. Karen Chao
Dr. Karen Chao is a developmental optometrist with her own practice, San Gabriel Family Optometry. Karen has been helping children and adults with their vision needs for 29 years. She has served as a past president of Soroptimist of Alhambra, President of the San Gabriel Valley Optometry Society, and a past board member of the Alhambra School Foundation. She has two daughters.
Karen has been a member of Soroptimist since 1995.
VP Fundraising
Elisa Vasquez
Elisa Vasquez is a Director of Communications and Public Affairs for LA County Development Authority. She has spent almost 30 years in public service. Elisa holds a Bachelor's degree from Loyola Marymount University and a Master of Science in Public Administration from CAL State LA.
Her hobbies include Zumba, bike riding, traveling and experiencing different cultures. She is a big Dodgers fan. Elisa has been a member since 2025.
Co-VP Programs/Membership
Alma Urbina
Alma was one of our Live Your Dream Awards recipients in 2023. She owns a baking business and makes beautiful and delicious pastries.
She has two children. Alma has been a member of Soroptimist since 2024.
Co-VP Progams/Membership
Jessica Lupian
Jessica is a dedicated real estate broker with a passion for serving Southern California since 2015. Based in Pasadena, Jessica extends her services across the Los Angeles community, from the San Fernando Valley to the San Gabriel Valley and beyond. Committed to staying ahead of the curve, Jessica actively participates as a member of the Local Government Relations Committee and Board of Directors (2024-2026) for the Pasadena-Foothills Association. She has a strong commitment to excellence, both personally and professionally. Jessica has one son. She has been a member of Soroptimist since 2024.
Recording Secretary
Jane Carlson
Jane Carlson is, currently, a computer graphic designer creating marketing materials. She was in the marketing department of Stewart Title in Phoenix, AZ for 12 years. Prior to that she worked in the entertainment industry in Chicago for 23 years. Her daughter Julie is also a member of Soroptimist. She has been a member of Soroptimist since 2016.
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Treasurer
Sophia Tsoi
Sophia Tsoi is a Certified Public Accountant. She also has a NASD Series 7 securities license. Sophia serves as a board member on the Alhambra Educational Foundation. In her spare time she enjoys golfing, Latin Ballroom dancing, singing, cooking and knitting. She is also a certified scuba diver. She has two daughters. Sophia has been a member of Soroptimist since 1994.
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Live Your Dream Chair
Julie Carlson
ulie Carlson is a freelance arts and culture writer. Aside from her writing, Julie is also an illustrator. She also works as a Children's Bookseller and Supervisor at Vroman's Bookstore.
Julie has been a member of Soroptimist since 2019.
We Are Soroptimist
Soroptimist International of Alhambra, San Gabriel, San Marino strives to improve the lives of women and girls in local communities and throughout the world by raising awareness of their needs and obstacles to success, and by providing services and support to achieve their dreams.
“There is always light. If only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it.”
Amanda Gorman, Poet and Activist
Our History
Soroptimist was formed in 1921 in Oakland, California, at a time when women were not permitted to join service organizations. Our name, loosely translated from the Latin, means best for women.
Our Mission
Soroptimists transform the lives and status of women and girls through education, empowerment and enabling opportunities.
Our Vision
Is a community of diverse, dynamic and dedicated leaders who empower women and girls to achieve their full potential and have an equal global voice.
Campaign
We have set a goal through our Dream Big Campaign of investing in the dreams of half a million women and girls.
Donate
Donate to Soroptimist Alhambra, San Gabriel, San Marino through Give Lively!
