Sherrie M. Wells – President
Sherrie Marie Wells, the daughter of Steven Gary and Janice Marie Sivco, is a lifelong resident of central New Jersey. Sherrie is a graduate of Douglas College at Rutgers University where she majored in American History and minored in Women’s Studies. Sherrie went on to receive her MBA from Baker College of Flint, Michigan. Sherrie would tell you that until 2009 she led a very ordinary life. Living in Kendall Park with her husband Michael and their 13-month-old son Brady, life centered around her family. It was in October of that year that Brady was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia, and for the next ten months Sherrie’s life became a whirlwind of anxiety, fear and loss. After six rounds of chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant, Brady lost his battle with pediatric cancer in July 2010. Sherrie would not let the loss of her firstborn child be forgotten; she and her husband Michael created the Hugs for Brady Foundation to honor his short life and to help other families dealing with this terrible disease. Through Sherrie’s dedication, hard work, and tireless efforts Hugs for Brady Foundation has raised more than $2 million in less than seven years. These funds have been used to help families and children who are battling this dreaded disease. In July 2012 Sherrie gave birth to two beautiful baby boys, Gavin and Logan. The twins fill her heart with love and joy like no one else can. Sherrie’s favorite saying is:I do what I have to do, When I have to do it, Whether I want to or not, With no debate.
Joseph J. Camarota, Jr. – Vice President
Though born in Philadelphia, PA, Joe’s childhood and adolescent years were spent in Atlantic County, NJ. During his college years in Essex County, NJ, he received a BA in Political Science and Psychology from Upsala College and a Masters in Education from Seton Hall University. Upon graduation, Joe moved to North Brunswick, NJ in 1978 and then to South Brunswick in 1989, where he still resides with his lovely wife Charlotte. Additionally, blessed to have raised a family of three wonderful children, Joe takes great pride and enjoyment in spending time with his 5 delightful grandchildren. Over the last 43 years, Joe and his partner have built a local company whose focus is the design of entertainment complexes, such as amusement parks and family entertainment centers. During this time, he has served on several volunteer boards and has been involved in a number of civic endeavors. Over the last 18 years, Joe has volunteered his time to the Township of South Brunswick in several different capacities, and has had the distinct honor and privilege of representing South Brunswick as a member of their Township Council. Although Joe knew of the Hugs for Brady Foundation, he was made acutely aware of their goals and mission statement by Sherrie in 2014. As Joe came to understand the non-discriminating devastation childhood cancer wreaks upon the families that fall victim to this dreadful illness, and the overwhelming need to bring more awareness and research to the eradication of this disease, he quickly joined the tireless efforts of the original board members in pursuit of these goals.
Michael F. Wells – Treasurer
Originally from Connecticut, Michael joined the U.S. Navy after high school and served aboard the aircraft Shangri-La as a Fire Control Technician. Upon receiving an honorable discharge, he then went on to graduate from the University of Connecticut. Professionally, Michael has worked in sales and marketing for many years. Additionally, he is involved with various township volunteer committees including the South Brunswick Economic Development Committee and the Board of Trustees for the South Brunswick Community Development Corporation. Most recently, Michael joined the Middlesex County Regional Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Michael has two adult children from his first marriage and three children with his wife Sherrie. In 2009, Michael and Sherrie welcomed son Brady. At 13 months of age, Brady was diagnosed with Non-Differentiated Acute Leukemia, and after ten difficult months, lost his battle at 23 months old. Struggling to make sense of their loss and the devastation of childhood cancer, Sherrie and Michael started the Hugs for Brady Foundation with the hope that they could help other families going through what they had, and possibly even someday help to find a cure. In 2012 Michael and Sherrie were blessed with twin boys, Logan and Gavin, and together they all honor the memory of Brady everyday through the work of the foundation.Bert Baron – Trustee
Bert Baron is a New Jersey native, and a lifelong state resident. His nearly 20-year radio career has taken him to Philadelphia, New York, and of course his beloved home state of New Jersey. He is a strong proponent of charitable causes, and takes great pride in New Jersey’s strength, resiliency, and benevolence. He currently resides in Hunterdon County New Jersey with his wife of 18 years Kay and their 5 adopted cats.
Bert was the proud recipient of the Hugs for Brady 2015 Ellen Gambatese Pediatric Cancer Volunteer of the Year Award.
Phillip K. Barrood, Esq. – Trustee
Marc Hamel – Trustee
Originally from Massachusetts, Marc found his way to New Jersey after graduating from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, RI with degrees in Hotel/Restaurant Management and Hospitality Management. After the recent birth of his daughter, Marc attended a “Hugs for Brady Gala” and felt this was his call to action to make a difference against pediatric cancer. Marc lives in Chatham, NJ with his wife Johanna and daughter, Mary. In 2005, Marc joined The Palace at Somerset Park as President and General Manager. The Palace at Somerset Park is a conference center and events complex in Central New Jersey.
Terri Hermann – Trustee
Terri and her family have lived in the local area her entire life. Terri was born in Jamesburg, NJ and moved to the Griggstown area in 1988. She has been married to Dennis Hermann for 37 years. They enjoy spending time with their 3 children, spouses and 8 grandchildren. Love of family, travel, golf, wine, biking, flowers and helping others are just a few of her passions. For most of Terri’s career she has been employed by Hermann Transportation serving many roles within the family business and for the past 10 years as a project manager. Over the years she has been involved with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, helping the corporate team raise over $90,000 for this worthy cause. Additionally, Terri enjoys working to help the yearly Toys for Tots Holiday toy drive and recently became involved with the South Brunswick Food Bank and Adopt-a-Family programs.Carol Reynolds – Trustee
Carol was born and raised in New Brunswick, NJ and has strong community ties. She and her family now reside in Monroe Township. Until recently she was the House Manager at the Ronald McDonald House of Central and Northern Jersey. She is passionate about helping children and their families during difficult times and looks forward to bringing her times and talents to the Hugs for Brady Foundation.