Lisa Lambert named Chatham University president

Lisa Lambert, a longtime professor and administrator at Pittsburgh’s Chatham University, has been named the university’s 21st president.

“Chatham has been a central part of my life for many years, and I am truly grateful and honored to be named Chatham University’s president,” Lambert said in a statement. “As president, I look forward to collaborating closely with our students, faculty, staff and alumni as we focus on the university’s mission and Chatham’s continued engagement in Pittsburgh and the western Pennsylvania region.”

Lambert joined Chatham as a biology faculty member in 1985. She also has served as provost and vice president of academic affairs, and has been interim president since June.

“Dr. Lambert’s extensive experience and deep commitment to Chatham University make her the ideal choice as our permanent president,” said Kent McElhattan, chairman of Chatham’s board of trustees.

At Chatham, Lambert has also been chair of the science department, founding program director for the Master’s Biology program, associate dean for academic affairs and assistant vice president of undergraduate learning, according to the university.

Lambert is also a member of the Phi Beta Kappa honor society and is recognized for her research in iron homeostasis, the body’s ability to maintain healthy iron levels, according to Chatham. She has done sabbaticals at the University of Pittsburgh, Duke University and the Harvard University School of Public Health, Department of Genetics and Complex Diseases.

“Lisa’s leadership has already proven invaluable during her time as provost and then as interim president, and we are confident that her vision and dedication will further strengthen our university community as we continue to advance our mission,” McElhattan said.

Lambert is from Fort Mitchell, Ky. She earned her bachelor’s degree in biology from Furman University, and a Ph.D. in genetics from Indiana University-Bloomington.

She lives in Wilkins Township with her husband, Michael. They have two children, Matthew and Shannon.