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COPT Defense Mourns the Death of Former Chief Executive Officer and Trustee, Roger A. Waesche, Jr.

  • COPT Defense Properties announced the passing of former CEO & Trustee Roger A. Waesche Jr.
  • Waesche served the company for over 30 years in roles including CFO, COO, & CEO (2011-2016) before retiring.
  • He was the architect of the 2011 Strategic Reallocation Program, which shifted the portfolio to Defense/IT assets & secured an investment-grade credit rating.
  • Current President & CEO Stephen E. Budorick praised Waesche's intellect, mentorship, & lasting legacy on the company team.
  • Waesche earned degrees from Loyola University, began as a CPA at Coopers & Lybrand, & joined the company's predecessor in December 1984.
  • He was instrumental in taking the company public in 1998 & held leadership positions from 1999 through 2016.
  • Waesche served on the Maryland Industrial Development Finance Authority & held board roles with the Economic Alliance of Greater Baltimore, Greater Baltimore Committee, & Loyola University.
  • As of September 30, 2025, COPT Defense's portfolio comprised 198 properties (including 24 joint ventures) totaling 22.6 million square feet with a 97.0% lease rate.