A New Beginning

On this page, you will find the June 2, 2025 communication from Interim President Dr. Lisa Lambert.
A New Beginning
By Lisa Lambert / 2 June 2025
 
Dear Chatham Faculty and Staff,
 
The most important part of today's message is this: thank you. Over my many years at Chatham, I have continued to be impressed by the dedication and professionalism of the people who are part of our community. I appreciate you, your hard work, and your devotion to our students.
 
My immediate goal for this transition is for it to be low-key, calm, and smooth. If there are any hiccups or breakdowns in process or communication, please let me know via the President's office email, so that we can fix them as quickly as possible. Dr. Phillips has been very helpful and cooperative in forwarding emails, but if there are any projects in progress that are awaiting an update, please let me know about those, too. The June Board meeting is this Friday, so I'll be reaching out again next week with a report. I hope to keep communications regular and useful.
 
I'd like to take this opportunity to thank Mary Simbari for her many years of service. Mary helped many people, shared her heart and her wisdom, and quietly kept so many important parts of the University moving forward. I know we will all miss her and wish her well upon her retirement. Please remember to RSVP for the ice cream social on Thursday to say farewell!
 
I also would like to thank Patsy Kraeger for her service in the role of Chief of Staff. Patsy worked very hard to help establish contacts with the local foundations and government offices and used her expertise in non-profit fundraising to benefit Chatham. I have decided to eliminate the Chief of Staff position, and Patsy will be joining the faculty of the School of Business and Enterprise. 
 
Higher education is facing many challenges, and as we have learned, Chatham is one of many wrestling with problems; however, Chatham will be one of the survivors. We are adaptable, resilient, and student-focused. We have many resources, especially our people. I believe in Chatham, and I believe in you.
 
I appreciate your patience over the coming weeks as I learn this new role. Once again, thank you for everything you do.
 
Best,
Lisa
 
Lisa Lambert, Ph.D. 
Interim President