Colleen Stutz

Principal Owner

Originally from St. Louis Missouri she has been in the Northern Virginia area for over 20 years. Colleen started as an agent with New York Life 23 years ago.  During these years she has worked closely with customers in the field while serving in several capacities.   

Colleen brings a creative and comprehensive approach, collaborating with Business owners, their employees, and individuals in the areas of business succession planning, employee benefits and retirement. She is known for her practical teachings and engaging, conversational style of presentation, speaking frequently to groups about the need to plan for college funding, retirement planning, extended periods of care and pension strategies. 

 Colleen earned her bachelor’s degree in actuarial science from Maryville University in St. Louis.  Before joining New York Life, she began her career as an actuary with companies including CIGNA Insurance Company, Ernst and Young and the Employee benefits firm of William Mercer.

Sarah Zorio

Registered Service Assistant

Sarah secured the spot of favorite child in her family when she followed in her father’s footsteps to join the financial services industry.  While pursuing her Psychology degree, she began working in her father’s office over summer breaks.  She became a licensed and registered agent in 2014 and has a particular interest in the emotions surrounding financial decisions. 

 Leading up to his retirement from New York Life, Sarah began working with her father’s successor who is a long-time colleague and friend of Colleen’s.  Shortly thereafter, the opportunity arose to also work with Colleen, who was her trainer as a new agent.  Sarah joined the SonRise Strategies team in 2020 and enjoys the challenge of supporting two brilliant, successful women. 

Sarah met her wonderfully patient husband at New York Life.  They are outnumbered by three daughters who keep them on their toes and one very loud cat.  She and her family escape to the water as often as possible.

Candice D Guillaudeu

Assistant

Candice D. Guillaudeu, Assistant to Colleen Stutz at SonRise Strategies LLC, is dedicated to expanding her knowledge of the insurance and financial industries. With a strong commitment to excellence, she supports the team with organizational expertise and exceptional client care, ensuring the smooth operation of the business.

Before joining SonRise Strategies, Candice built an impressive career as an IT business analyst, contributing to various federal, state, and local government projects, including work with the U.S. Senate, White House, and U.S. Navy. During and after her tenure in IT, Candice took time to care for her aging mother, navigating the complex and emotionally challenging role of caregiver. This personal experience has deepened her empathy and reinforced her understanding of the important decisions caregivers face daily.

Candice is also an avid animal lover and foster caregiver for dogs. Earlier this year, she adopted Max, a Toy Poodle who had returned to the Poodle Rescue group after his owner, who happened to be one of Colleen’s clients, passed away. This heartwarming connection underscores Candice’s belief in the power of community and compassion.

In her free time, Candice enjoys tutoring an ESL student, delving into history and art while developing her drawing skills.Her multifaceted interests and experiences enrich the collaborative environment at SonRise Strategies, making her an indispensable member of the team.

Maryanna Lanham

Assistant

Maryanna Lanham is an integral member of the financial team at SonRise Strategies, where she focuses on streamlining processes, enhancing client outreach, and supporting day-to-day operations across various projects. With a foundation in finance that began in 2014 as an agent, financial professional, and partner at New York Life.

Maryanna has shared her insights and experiences in a chapter of the book The Extraordinary Makeover: Hidden Expressions of the Everyday Woman. Recognized as a “Woman to Watch” in both 2022 and 2023, she has been featured in several local newspapers for her impactful work in the community. She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland, College Park, and has received the Beacon of Light Award from Calvert County, along with more than $70,000 in grants for local initiatives. In 2023, she became an alumnus of Leadership Southern Maryland and was included in Marquis Who’s Who.

At the core of Maryanna's success is her deep passion for helping others, along with gratitude for those who have supported her journey. In the coming years, she plans to develop a leadership and mentoring course aimed at empowering women and fostering strong community connections.

Maryanna has also embraced her role as a caregiver, having supported her father in 2024 and now welcoming her mother into her home. She takes this responsibility seriously while remaining dedicated to supporting the clients and partners of SonRise Strategies.