Dr. Lisa Lambert has been appointed as Chatham University’s 21st president. She takes on this permanent role after serving as interim president following Dr. Rhonda Phillips’ resignation at the end of last academic year.

Lambert was unanimously elected by the Board of Trustees, according to an email sent by Board of Trustees Chair Kent McElhattan Monday.

“The Board’s decision reflects our deep confidence in Dr. Lambert’s proven leadership,” McElhattan said in the email. “She deeply understands Chatham’s mission, values and potential and is the right leader at the right time to guide the University forward with clarity and purpose.” 

Lambert started her time at Chatham as a biology professor in 1985 and later served in several academic and administrative roles, the most recent being provost and vice president of academic affairs. 

Lambert expressed her dedication to the Chatham community in an interview that took place prior to her permanent appointment.

“A lot of it is about meeting with people and telling stories about Chatham. I’ve been loving this job so far,” Lambert said. “I get to learn something new every day, and who wouldn’t want that? I don’t see it as a stepping stone. It’s about making it work for us, now and forever.”