For Shari Tompkins, a lifelong passion for children has shaped every chapter of her life. From her years as an educator to her volunteer work with Kennedy Krieger Institute’s Women’s Initiative Network (WIN), Shari has always found purpose in helping children feel supported, valued, and understood.
A Baltimore County native, Shari attended Calvert School and Garrison Forest School before earning degrees in French and elementary education from Randolph-Macon College, where she also played Division III lacrosse. After graduation, she spent several years as a teacher before transitioning to substitute teaching while raising her two sons, one of whom is a Clemson University graduate and the other currently a senior at Clemson.
Her background in education made her connection to Kennedy Krieger feel natural. Shari joined WIN in 2018 after learning more about the organization’s mission and quickly found meaningful ways to contribute. She began volunteering in the Child Life Room, where she enjoys creating moments of connection and joy for patients through activities like art, games, and conversation.
“I just wanted to put a little spark in their day and maybe take a little edge off their tough days,” Shari shared.
Plus, Shari finds a lot of joy in being with the children. “There was one young boy in a wheelchair who had very limited use of his arms and legs. I started visiting him regularly, and over time, we built a connection. We would play games together, I especially remember bowling. When I walked into the room, he rewarded me with a big smile.”
Over the years, Shari has also played a key role in WIN fundraising efforts, co-chairing events including Wine & Dine and Hats & Horses, helping secure sponsors and auction items, and seeing firsthand how those efforts translate into support for patients and families.
Now serving as WIN co-president, Shari hopes to continue growing the organization’s impact by listening to patients, families, and staff and finding new ways WIN can help brighten their experiences at Kennedy Krieger.
“What I love about WIN is that there are so many ways to get involved,” she said. “It’s a fantastic, caring group of women who are dedicated to serving Kennedy Krieger Institute, its patients, and families.”
