Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women as well as men, virtually regardless of race and ethnicity. In the United States, one person dies every 33 seconds from cardiovascular disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In 2022, 702,880 Americans died from heart disease, the equivalent of one in five deaths.
Heart disease also affects the bottom line. From 2019 to ’20, it cost about $252.2 billion. This includes the cost of health-care services, medicines and lost productivity due to death.
With this in mind, Purchase-based Morgan Stanley once again hosted the American Heart Association’s (AHA) Go Red for Women Leadership Experience. The Feb. 7 event marked the first in-person gathering since 2020 and featured a “Heart-to-Heart” conversation between Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress Christine Baranski (“The Gilded Age”) and Morgan Stanley executive Caroline N. Gundeck
Recently, we spoke by email with event co-host Sandra L. Richards, Morgan Stanley’s head of Global Sports & Entertainment and Segment Sales & Engagement:
Why and how did Morgan Stanley get involved with the American Heart Association and Go Red For Women?
“Morgan Stanley’s involvement with the American Heart Association (AHA) and the Go Red for Women Campaign stems from a shared commitment to combating heart disease. As the leading cause of death among women in the U.S., heart disease disproportionately affects millions of lives. Morgan Stanley feels a deep responsibility to educate women on accessible prevention tactics, and partnering with AHA has allowed the firm to further amplify this message and make a meaningful impact.”
How specifically does Morgan Stanley support AHA beyond the Go Red for Women’s Leadership Experience?
“Since 2009, Morgan Stanley has partnered with the AHA to host the annual Go Red for Women’s Leadership event, raising awareness and promoting cardiovascular health education. However, prior to launching this flagship event, Morgan Stanley employees actively participated in fundraising initiatives throughout Heart Health Month each February and supported AHA’s broader mission through ongoing volunteerism.
“In 2007, Caroline Gundeck, managing director and head of UHNW (ultra-high-net-worth) Client and Field Engagement at Morgan Stanley Private Wealth Management, started the Employee Giving Campaign with the local Westchester and Fairfield Chapter of the AHA to raise awareness and support the mission of the organization. This movement has since expanded to include Morgan Stanley employees across the country, who actively participate in fundraising initiatives and volunteer efforts throughout the year.
“Leaders like Caroline – who is also a heart attack survivor – exemplify the firm’s commitment. Caroline was recognized as a New York City Woman of Impact Award winner for her advocacy and leadership in this space.
“Additionally, many other Morgan Stanley colleagues have taken on leadership roles in support of AHA. (Event co-host) Terri Ferri, managing director and market executive of the Soundview Market at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, served as the co-chair of the annual Westchester-Fairfield Go Red for Women Luncheon for several years. This year, Kim Henderson, M.D., managing director and head of Wealth Management Health & Wellness Education at Morgan Stanley, served as the chairperson for the 2025 Westchester/Fairfield Go Red for Women Campaign.”
How did you secure Connecticut resident Christine Baranski as a speaker, and what insights did she share at the event?
“Christine Baranski was a natural choice for this event, given her personal connection to heart health advocacy. She has tragically lost her father and brother to heart disease, and her late husband was also affected by heart-related issues.
“During the event, Christine shared her powerful story, highlighting the importance of prioritizing one’s health amid life’s many demands. Her message was clear: “You only get one heart, and it must come first.”
Given the prevalence of heart disease, we were wondering if you, too, have a connection to it?
“Unfortunately, I do. My father passed away from a massive heart attack at the age of 52 when I was just 17 years old. While this was an incredibly difficult time for my family, it also raised my awareness of heart health at a very early age.
“Over the years, I have seen heart disease impact friends and colleagues, further solidifying my commitment to this cause. Stories like Caroline’s are a powerful reminder of why this work matters. Her strength and resilience in advocating for heart health serve as a beacon for so many women navigating similar challenges.”
With much of heart disease being preventable, do you feel the message of heart health – particularly for women – has become more urgent?
“Absolutely. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women, yet it is largely preventable through lifestyle changes, education and early detection. Unfortunately, many women are still unaware of their unique risk factors, and symptoms can often present differently than in men, leading to underdiagnosis and undertreatment.
“Raising awareness has never been more urgent, and we are committed to amplifying this message to help save lives.”
For women struggling with health issues but lacking resources or guidance, what advice would you offer?
“Take proactive steps whenever possible: Manage your blood pressure, reduce stress, maintain a balanced diet and stay physically active. Equally important is seeking out community resources and advocating for your well-being. Campaigns like Go Red for Women aim to close the knowledge gap and provide education and support so that every woman can prioritize her heart health – regardless of her circumstances.”
