Dr. Shar Najafi-Piper

Q: What most notably stands out about your leadership style or what is an example of leadership success you can share with our readers?

My leadership style is rooted in compassion and servant leadership, emphasizing the importance of treating every individual with dignity, love and respect here at Copa Health. I believe that fostering a supportive and inclusive environment empowers our team to thrive and ultimately enhances the services we provide to our community.

A notable program that embodies this philosophy is our “Housing Meets Healthcare” initiative, which represents a groundbreaking intersection of housing and healthcare. This innovative project focuses on the first low-income housing developments designed to serve individuals eligible for low-income housing while providing fully integrated healthcare services. The initiative includes a pharmacy, a community center and a Copa Hero’s sandwich shop operated by Copa members, creating a vibrant hub that promotes both health and community engagement. By housing more than 100 individuals, we are not only addressing critical housing needs but also ensuring that residents have access to essential services that support their overall well-being. This project exemplifies our commitment to holistic care and the belief that everyone deserves a safe and supportive place to call home.

Q: What impact has any disruptions of the past 18 months had on you as a leader?

The healthcare industry is characterized by an ever-changing landscape, marked by rapid advancements in technology, evolving regulations and shifting patient needs. While the unpredictable market can present significant challenges, I view these obstacles as opportunities to demonstrate resiliency and grit. Closing on Copa Health’s first low-income housing tax project was a notable milestone that came with its own set of challenges, yet it underscored the importance of adaptability in leadership.

As leaders, it is crucial for us to approach these issues with a mindset focused on learning, growth and the willingness to pivot and iterate as necessary. My leadership style emphasizes the need to change and adapt in response to new situations, fostering an environment where innovation thrives and teams feel empowered to tackle the complexities of our industry. By embracing these challenges, we not only strengthen our organization but also enhance our ability to serve our community effectively and compassionately

Q: What do you feel we can be doing as a business community to empower economic growth here?

As the CEO of Copa Health, I believe that leaders play a pivotal role in empowering economic growth, particularly by addressing the healthcare, employment and housing needs of vulnerable populations. One of the most impactful ways we can achieve this is by providing second chances and opportunities to all members of our community. By fostering an inclusive environment where everyone is given the chance to thrive and discover their purpose, we not only uplift individuals but also contribute to the overall economic vitality of our community. This approach enables us to tap into the potential of those who may have previously been marginalized, transforming their lives and, in turn, fueling economic activity. When individuals are empowered to succeed, they contribute to the workforce, support local businesses and stimulate growth. Ultimately, by championing inclusivity and opportunity, we create a more harmonious environment that benefits everyone and drives sustainable economic growth.

Q: What is new and notable for your company’s near future that will impact our economy?

Copa Health is poised to make significant strides in fueling the economy through our ambitious five-year strategic plan. A key focus of this plan is to actively pursue low-income housing projects while simultaneously developing integrated healthcare services within these housing initiatives. Given the pressing housing crisis in Arizona, we are committed to addressing this urgent need by providing affordable rental options to members of our community.

By offering low-income rentals, we not only alleviate some of the housing pressures but also create a supportive environment that promotes stability and well-being. Our approach goes beyond just housing; we are dedicated to embedding healthcare services directly into these projects. This integration ensures that residents have access to essential health resources, which is crucial for their overall quality of life.

Moreover, by providing employment opportunities alongside housing and healthcare, Copa Health is creating a comprehensive support system that empowers individuals to thrive. This multifaceted approach not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters economic growth by enhancing the workforce and contributing to local economic activity. As we move forward with our strategic plan, we are excited about the positive impact we will have on the community, ultimately driving economic development and improving the lives of those we serve.