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Staff Spotlight: Sherry Freitas and Gabrielle Bonerb
Sherry (left) and Gabby
At Roberts Wesleyan University, our staff's dedication and passion shape the student experience. Gabrielle Bonerb ‘21 (Exercise Science) and Sherry Freitas, two key members of our Admissions Operations team, embody our mission of integrating faith into education and fostering a supportive community.
Gabby, an alumna and former assistant coach, loves her job as our Enrollment Data Specialist. Sherry, who discovered Roberts during a pivotal moment in her life, leads as the Director of Operations for Admissions.
Keep reading to learn how they uplift each other and serve students.
Gabby (right) graduating
Tell us about yourself and your background. How did your time at Roberts start?
Gabby: I was born and raised in Orchard Park, New York, and attended Roberts for my undergraduate studies in Exercise Science. As an undergraduate student, I ran on the cross-country and track teams.
After graduating, I was the assistant coach of the cross-country team while working elsewhere. Being the assistant coach was fulfilling to contribute, even in a small way, to a team that had such a positive impact on my own experience at Roberts.
I wasn't fully satisfied with the career trajectory in my previous role. When Addie referred to me to this job, I was hesitant at first but I’m now very glad I applied. Returning to the Roberts community felt natural and fulfilling.
I began this role full-time at Roberts a year ago and started the Master of Strategic Leadership (MSL) program in January.
Sherry: I came to Roberts in an unconventional way. I was in a period of major change in my life and wasn’t looking to leave my previous role. I wasn’t familiar with the university at the time, but I stumbled upon the campus when I was driving around to clear my head. After checking it out online, I found a job posting that really caught my interest.
After researching Roberts and its mission, I felt drawn to it. Although it was hard to leave my previous job, I’m grateful I made the move. It’s been everything I hoped for and more.
Sherry and her son, Andre
Explain your job in your own words.
Gabby: My official title is Enrollment Data Specialist and Office Manager. I handle the data side of admissions operations, including processing applications, managing mailings like acceptance letters, and running reports.
We work really closely with admissions counselors and handle the behind-the-scenes tasks to help everything run smoothly so that the counselors can focus on the front-end interactions.
Sherry: I am the Director of Operations for Admissions, overseeing undergraduate, graduate, and seminary operations. I manage the processes that keep data flowing within our department and coordinate with various departments to ensure a seamless transition for students from Admissions to Registration, Housing, and Student Financial Services.
Gabby (white shirt) at a track meet as Assistant Coach
What's one of your favorite things about working at Roberts?
Gabby: Everyone says this, but it’s definitely the people. My best friend works here, which is wonderful. The community here makes me feel like who I am and what I do matters.
At Roberts, I’ve been able to grow in my faith and experience strong fellowship with others. Having worked at secular businesses before, I didn’t realize how much I missed this spiritual component until I returned to Roberts. It’s comforting to discuss faith openly and have it be part of the work environment.
Sherry: The community at Roberts knows your name and genuinely cares about you. I’ve been in environments where you’re just a number, but at Roberts, it’s different. The respect and camaraderie within our team make it a special place to work.
Despite the constant demands and pressures, our team supports each other. We’re there for one another, and the mutual respect we have fosters a great working environment. Gabby, in particular, is a “rock star!” She’s always willing to help and brings a positive attitude, even when things get overwhelming.
Sherry and her partner, Jason
How do you foster such a deep sense of respect within your team?
Sherry: It’s about connecting on a human level. Everyone’s role is valuable and contributes to the overall goal. We keep the focus on the students and how our actions affect them. This shared understanding helps us respect and support each other, regardless of our titles or roles.
Gabby: I agree. We all realize that even though our tasks might differ, we’re working towards the same goal, ensuring everything runs smoothly for the students.
Gabby, what is one of your favorite things about working with Sherry as your manager?
Gabby: How much she cares about her employees. We have a close relationship, and we can joke around and have fun, but she also pushes me to improve.
I appreciate the open communication and support. It’s comforting to know I can ask questions and not worry about being perceived as annoying. It’s a collaborative environment where we can learn and adapt together.
Since working with her, I’ve become more of a leader than I was before. She’s very gracious and always ready to support me.
Sherry, what’s your favorite thing about working with Gabby?
Sherry: I can always rely on Gabby, no matter what. Even though we’re in a period of transition with a new CRM and other changes, I trust her to get things done. We can always return to ground zero, laugh together, and focus on our shared mission.
Gabby (right) and Addie, best friend and coworker
Do you have a favorite quote or verse, and why is it your favorite?
Gabby: I have many favorite quotes and verses. I actually keep a journal of them. One of my favorites is by playwright Tennessee Williams, who said, “The great congregation meets daily, and you are someone’s angel today.”
I like this quote because it’s a reminder that everyone is going through something difficult. Each day can be an opportunity to show support and be there for someone, just like others have been for me.
For example, I remember one time when I was having a particularly difficult day, Sherry brought me flowers, and it was such a small but meaningful gesture. It made me feel supported.
Sherry: My favorite quote is, "Just always be humble and kind." It’s about understanding and kindness because you never know what someone else is going through. It's a principle I strive to live by.
Sherry (second from left, top row) and her family
What are your hobbies?
Gabby: I have been trying to get back into reading and running. I’m currently reading Stephen King’s book The Gunslinger, but my favorite author of all time is Cormac McCarthy. He has a beautiful way of expressing abstract feelings and thoughts that are hard to put into words.
Sherry: My biggest focus is on spending time with my family, whether driving around, trying new restaurants, or simply being together.