From youth ministry to athletics: Tori Gocey’s journey at Greenville University

Published: January 14, 2025

Author: Liz Dowell

For Tori Gocey, her path from student to staff at Greenville University has been shaped by faith, relationships, and a commitment to the community.

Now serving as the administrative assistant in the athletics department, Tori’s journey reflects her adaptability and passion for helping others thrive.

FROM YOUTH MINISTRIES TO ATHLETICS

Tori Gocey graduated from Greenville University in 2017 with a degree in youth ministries, a choice inspired by her experiences in her hometown church’s youth group.

“When I was trying to choose a major, one of my professors encouraged us to think about what we cared deeply about,” Tori recalled. “For me, it was my youth group. That’s where I belonged and grew.”

Her decision proved fruitful, as professors like Lori Gaffner and Brian Hartley in GU’s Bastian School of Theology, Philosophy, and Ministry shaped her theological perspective and encouraged her growth.

INFLUENTIAL MENTORS AND GUIDANCE

Throughout her studies, Tori found mentors who profoundly impacted her journey. Chaplain Lori Gaffner and Professor Brian Hartley, both from Greenville, deepened her theological understanding and encouraged her to explore her calling.

Professor Hartly said he remembers having Tori and her sister in class together. “She was a better-than-usual writer who asked good questions. She manifested a missional call towards those in need.”

Their guidance helped Tori cultivate a strong sense of purpose and direction, which has carried into her professional life.

Reflecting on Lori Gaffner, Tori shared, “She’s not living anymore, but Lori Gaffner was probably one of the most influential people I’ve ever met. She had such a steady and kind spirit. She just knew how to talk to people, read them, and encourage them."

After graduating, Tori worked at The Simple Room, a local nonprofit she first connected with as a student. Over nearly ten years, she transitioned into a full-time role there, developing administrative skills and a heart for relational ministry.

This experience laid the groundwork for her current position in GU’s athletics department, where she focuses on supporting coaches and athletes.

“It was a natural extension of what I cared about,” Tori said. “Being in relationships, learning from people in different stages of life, and helping systems run smoothly all felt familiar and fulfilling.”

RETURNING TO GREENVILLE

Staying in Greenville after graduation wasn’t part of a grand plan, but the town’s welcoming community and shared faith made it an easy choice. Tori and her husband Blake, also a Greenville alum, have found deep roots in the relationships they’ve built through their church and the University.

"Greenville has been so sweet and kind to us," Tori shared. "Even though it's a small community, our connections have been incredibly meaningful."

A VISION FOR ATHLETICS

In her role with the athletics department, Tori is excited about contributing to a program emphasizing teamwork and spiritual growth.

“I’ve learned that I love helping systems improve,” she said. “Whether it’s assisting coaches with paperwork or making coffee in the morning, I know these small acts help everyone perform their best.”

Tori’s background in youth ministries continues to influence her work. “There’s a ministry vibe to what I do,” she explained. “It’s about serving others and creating an environment where people feel supported and cared for.”

BUILDING A CONNECTED COMMUNITY

Tori’s vision for the athletics department aligns with Greenville University’s goal of fostering a deeply connected community anchored in faith.

She hopes to mentor students by combining athletics with spiritual guidance, creating opportunities for athletes to grow as global citizens who integrate faith into their daily lives.

“Greenville taught me how to meet people where they are,” Tori said. “That’s what I want to bring to this role—a sense of belonging and encouragement for students and staff alike.”

RELECTIONS AND ASPIRATIONS

Looking back on her time as a student, Tori reflected on what it means to be “seen, known, and inspired” at Greenville University. “For me, it meant having people who truly cared about me and helped me grow,” she said. “Now, I want to be that person for others.”

As she begins this new chapter, Tori's goals include fostering collaboration within the department and strengthening relationships with students and staff. "It's a team-oriented, kind, and supportive environment," she shared. "I'm excited to see how we can grow together."