Since 2007, Joy Sobieralski has been an essential part of George Mason University as the financial reporting manager. Before her transition to Fiscal Services, she worked as a senior internal auditor in the Internal Audit Office. For her expertise and dedication, she is recognized as the June Employee of the Month.
Nusrat Sultana, director of financial reporting in Fiscal Services, emphasized the importance of Sobieralski’s work, saying, “she has played a pivotal role in launching several critical initiatives in the department and has consistently contributed innovative solutions. She ensures that we are careful stewards of university resources."
Amid significant changes in accounting regulations and the accounting department over the past few years, Teresa Klock-Taube, associate vice president and controller in Fiscal Services, and Claire Wurmfeld, associate controller, have found Sobieralski 's expertise and consistent dedication to be a testament to her resilience and unwavering commitment to George Mason's success.
“Joy's expertise in navigating increasingly complex accounting standards and implementing new regulations with precision has firmly established her as a trusted leader,” Klock-Taube said.
“Joy is an asset to the unit and the university,” said Wurmfeld.
Colleagues also said they value Sobieralski 's willingness to go above and beyond to meet deadlines and to ensure that the university's accounting records and financial statements are accurate and complete.”
“Joy’s deep understanding of the university's and [George Mason University] Foundation's complex financial data and rating agency ratios has been invaluable in ensuring successful communication of its financial situation to the rating agencies,” said Monica Michaud, now-retired director of Finance and Debt Management. “Her technical proficiency makes her an indispensable member of the team, and her work continues to have a significant, positive impact on the university’s and foundation's ratings.”
How did you come to Mason:
I grew up in Reston and always knew about George Mason, but it was after my husband started at the university and spoke so positively about the environment that I decided to explore opportunities here.
Best day on the job:
I look forward to the financial statement submission date each year because it is a culmination of a huge team effort and meeting the deadline provides a great sense of accomplishment.
What do you like best about working at Mason:
Definitely the people. Being surrounded by supportive, driven, and talented colleagues makes every day enjoyable and rewarding. Their collaboration, encouragement, and shared sense of purpose creates an environment where I feel valued and motivated to contribute my best work.
What do you like to do when you’re not working:
My son plays baseball, so my husband and I spend a lot of time at the baseball field. He graduates from high school this year and will play in college, so we are looking forward to visiting new places and watching him compete. I also enjoy reading and spending time with our French bulldog, Cooper. If you’ve been on a call with me, you’ve probably heard him snoring in the background.