Support the Roberts Fund

Few have given as generously or consistently to Roberts Wesleyan University as Mike and Bev Faro.

Both graduates of the Class of 1973, the Faros have poured their hearts into Roberts for decades. Mike returned to Roberts teach Physical Education, coach multiple sports, and eventually serve as Director of Athletics. Bev built a career in pediatric nursing and public health, always rooted in service.

Now retired, they continue to give - faithfully, humbly, and joyfully. As members of the Roberts Circle, their generosity supports the next generation of students.

Mike describes their generosity as “Just part of being in a tight-knit community of friends, and believing in Christian Education.” They find joy in the lifestyle of giving. “We don’t think our generosity is exemplary, just consistent to enable future opportunities.”

Roberts launched Academic Summer Camps in 2017 to give high schoolers a taste of hands-on learning and true community. That same vision led to a partnership with the Guadalupe Center in Immokalee, Florida, an organization breaking the cycle of poverty through education.

Through a connection from Board of Trustees member Caryl Wenzke, Roberts began welcoming students from the Guadalupe Center’s Tutor Corps program. They were drawn to our mission: an education anchored in Christian faith, marked by character development, personalized learning, and a commitment to community impact.

With help from federal aid, Guadalupe scholarships, and Roberts funding, several enrolled—but financial gaps remained.

That’s when Caryl and Gerry Wenzke stepped in again, creating the Roberts Wesleyan University Guadalupe Center Scholarship, with additional support from the Karpus Foundation and other donors.

Alberta Morales-Gonzales was the first recipient. The first in her family to graduate high school and attend college, Alberta thrived at Roberts.

She said, “Everyone is so nice at Roberts. One of the wonderful professors I met at the camp is now my academic advisor, and two of the professors take me with them to church every Sunday and have taken me to go shopping for winter clothes. Everyone is so open to discussing issues that matter, especially faith."

Because of her scholarship, Alberta isn’t just earning a degree - she’s becoming who she was called to be.

Dalton Letta, a 2016 graduate of our Bridge to Earning, Learning and Living program, is passionate about building inclusive communities for those with and without autism.

He founded Campaign D, an advocacy organization that promotes hope, compassion, and awareness through education and outreach. He also started the No One Eats Lunch Alone program and regularly volunteers to support others with autism.

Dalton’s work has brought him alongside community leaders like Gates Police Chief Jim VanBrederode, New York State Senator Joe Robach, and Monroe County Legislator Frank Allkofer, all in pursuit of a more inclusive and understanding Rochester.

Dalton is a living example of what it means to follow your calling and lead with character.

Jamarr D. Myers (’06, ’08) is shaping a brighter future for Rochester’s youth.

After earning both his Business Administration degree and a Master’s in Strategic Leadership from Roberts, Jamarr spent 18 years at Wegmans, rising through the ranks and helping launch a new store in Maryland.

In 2019, he was asked to lead EnCompass, a youth development initiative supported by Wegmans and the Sands Foundation. The program guides students toward academic success, career readiness, and personal growth.

Jamarr also co-founded Black Men Achieve (Roc BMA) with his brother Jermayne to celebrate and elevate the impact of Black men in the Rochester area. The organization includes an awards program honoring community role models.

He received Roberts’ Rochesterian Award in 2020. It’s a testament to what happens when education is personal, purpose-driven, and rooted in something bigger.

Many are surprised to learn just how many current Roberts parents choose to donate to the University.

It’s a common misconception that tuition alone covers the full cost of a college education. In reality, every Roberts student receives financial support, and generous gifts from alumni, friends, faculty, staff, and parents help bridge the gap.

The Wares are just one example of generous parents who believe giving to the University will enhance their daughter’s experience while at Roberts.

“As a parent, it can seem counterintuitive to be asked to give to a college in addition to paying tuition and other expenses. But our daughter was blessed to receive significant support from Roberts. This made us think about how we could use invest in providing opportunities to enrich her  academic, social, and, most importantly, spiritual environment at school.

We are glad to be able to be a small part of helping students learn not just what God is calling them to do, but who He is calling them to be.”