February is American Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about heart disease and its widespread impact. Our employees’ leadership in philanthropic initiatives drives our mission to support the communities where we live, work and serve. This month, we’re celebrating one of our own survivors, Shari Sudano, whose leadership and commitment to raising awareness for heart health continues to inspire colleagues and the community.
Shari started with COPT Defense Properties in 2007 and in 2014, her heart health journey took an unexpected turn. Despite having no prior health issues or warning signs, she was diagnosed with coronary artery disease. She initially underwent a stent procedure but eventually required double bypass surgery. Unfortunately, heart disease runs in Shari’s family—her father is a survivor, her grandmother suffered a heart attack at 40, and her grandfather died of a stroke. Her 27-year-old niece, Breanna, also faced a life-threatening moment, at only 16 years old, when she went into cardiac arrest while playing field hockey. Thanks to quick CPR intervention, she was rushed to the hospital and diagnosed with a congenital heart condition.
Breanna’s experience led to the passing of Breanna’s Law in 2016, requiring all Maryland high school students to learn hands-on CPR and AED use before graduation. “I share my story so that everyone understands the importance of knowing their family history. Having a close relative with heart disease puts you at a higher risk,” Shari explains. By speaking out, she hopes to raise awareness, support those affected, and encourage life-saving conversations about heart health.
Since 2014, Shari has led a team in the Greater Maryland Heart Walk, raising $6,925 in its first year for the American Heart Association (AHA). In addition, Shari has been a leader in sponsoring grants through COPT Defense’s Associate Grant Program to support the AHA for over a decade. This program allows employees involved with philanthropic organizations to apply for corporate grants and connects the company with local and national organizations that deliver meaningful results. By 2024, Shari’s initiative has grown to a total of over $116,000 in commitment to combating heart disease.
Shari serves as an AHA ambassador and has spoken about the importance of women’s health at events such as the Go Red for Women event on February 7. Held annually on National Wear Red Day, this event serves as the centerpiece of American Heart Month and raises awareness that cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for women. In honor of the initiative, and to mark National Wear Red Day, two of COPT Defense’s downtown Baltimore buildings, 250 West Pratt and Canton Crossing, were lit up red, and all Cares Friday’s donations will be directed to AHA throughout the month of February.
While Shari has consistently increased fundraising for over a decade, Shari aims to rally more team participation in the Heart Walk. Her 2025 goal is to inspire 50 colleagues to join her in making a difference in Maryland and beyond. Click here to join the CDP Heart Walk Team.
The Huntsville Regional Office has also been actively participating with the AHA for two years, growing its initiative to support heart health in their local region.
At COPT Defense, we aim to foster a culture of giving and empower employees like Shari to champion the causes they care about. If you are a company employee with a nonprofit organization close to your heart, we encourage you to apply for the Associate Grant Program and help make a meaningful impact. Together, we can build stronger communities while supporting life-saving initiatives.
About COPT Defense’s Associate Grant Program
COPT Defense’s Associate Grant Program empowers employees involved with philanthropic organizations in various capacities. Grants range from $250 to over $5,000, and in 2024 alone, the company awarded grants totaling $547,000 to nonprofits serving communities where employees live and work. Learn more about all the ways CDP employees can give back: careers.copt.com.