Tom Ackerman serves as Greenville University's Senior Vice President for Advancement and Athletics. He has served as head women's volleyball coach since 2002, and is the winningest coach in Greenville University history. He has also been named SLIAC Coach of the Year eight times. Over the years, Ackerman has served in many different roles across campus, from Admissions to Athletic Director, but what has remained constant through each of them is his passion for students and their growth.
That same passion is what drives him in his work with coaches across the athletic department, helping them stay focused on developing not just better athletes, but better people. Now, in his current role, Ackerman gets to pursue that mission in two areas he loves most, walking alongside student athletes and coaches, while also staying closely connected to the donors and friends whose generosity makes it all possible.
1. What makes Greenville University special to you?
I've always said that Greenville University's number one currency is relationships. That was true long before I arrived as a student; it was true during my time here, and it's still true today as an employee. There has always been an expectation that we don't just educate students; we invest in them. We walk alongside them as they grow spiritually, emotionally, academically, and as leaders. We believe every student has God-given potential, and sometimes our role is to see something in them before they see it in themselves. Watching students discover who they were created to be is what makes Greenville such a special place.
2. What do you love most about serving Greenville's alumni and donors?
The relationships are, without question, my favorite part of this work. Every alumnus and donor has a unique Greenville story, and I love hearing how this place shaped their life and where their journey has taken them since. It's incredibly rewarding to reconnect them with the mission of the University and help them see the impact they're making on today's students.
Some of the best conversations aren't about fundraising at all. They're about faith, family, careers, and the people who invested in us along the way. Those conversations build trust and often turn into lasting friendships. That's what I love most: helping people continue the legacy of investing in students so the next generation can experience the same life-changing relationships that meant so much to them.
3. What is one thing you hope every donor knows?
I hope every donor knows that they are making a difference. No matter the size of the gift, they're investing in people, not just programs or buildings. Every scholarship awarded, every mission trip taken, every classroom experience, every athletic competition, and every life that's changed is possible because someone chose to invest in a student.
I also hope they know how deeply grateful we are. We don't view our donors as transactions. We view them as partners in the mission of Greenville University. While higher education continues to change rapidly and our environment is constantly evolving, the mission of Greenville University is alive and well. Every day, we remain committed to developing students spiritually, academically, and personally. Your generosity allows us to continue that work and to help students discover the purpose God has for their lives. That is a legacy that lasts far beyond a single gift.
4. Tell us a little about yourself outside of Greenville.
My wife and I are both proud Greenville graduates, and we love this University dearly. We have four amazing boys, and as a family we're always looking for our next adventure. We love to travel, experience new places, and make as many memories together as we can.
Our boys certainly keep us busy. Paxton and Bauer will be juniors this fall, and both play football and basketball. Cale will be a sophomore at Hope International University in Fullerton, California, where he plays basketball, and Tyson will be a senior at Greenville this fall and is also a member of the basketball team.
Coaching volleyball at Greenville University has been deeply rewarding and remains my true passion. There is nothing more fulfilling than helping young people grow in confidence, character, and faith while watching them accomplish more than they ever thought possible
