Andy Lambert Brings a Coach’s Heart to Greenville University

Published: January 20, 2026

Author: Liz Dowell

When Andy Lambert arrived on Greenville University’s campus in December, he did not come quietly. He came with decades of experience, a deep love for Christ-centered education, and a recent chapter spent working on a cattle ranch in Kansas.

Lambert officially began his role as vice president of student development on December 10, stepping into the position during a season of transition for the University.

“I’ve spent my career going into places that were looking for culture change, stability, and a long-term vision,” Lambert said. “For some people, that kind of environment is draining. For me, it’s life-giving.”

A Career Built on People

Lambert’s professional journey has unfolded almost entirely within Christian higher education. After earning his degree in human performance and wellness from Trinity International University, he spent more than 30 years as a college football coach, 25 of those as head coach and served as a director of athletics.

Though vice president of student development is a new title, Lambert views the work as a natural extension of what he has always done.

“At its core, student development is people work,” he said. “It’s about developing college-age students—helping them grow, persist, and discover who they’re becoming.”

That perspective is shaped by decades of mentoring student athletes through both good times and hard times. Lambert is quick to note that experience alone does not guarantee competence, but it does bring perspective.

“I’m probably not going to see many situations I haven’t encountered before,” he said. “That gives me confidence.”

Advice for students

“Persistence and resilience matter,” he said. “When things get hard, just show up and be present. It can make all the difference.”

He pairs that advice with an emphasis on joy, particularly joy rooted in faith.

“For me, joy in the Lord, regardless of circumstances, has been essential,” Lambert said. “Joy fuels persistence. They go hand in hand.”

It is a philosophy shaped not only by coaching but also by reflection. Before arriving at GU, Lambert and his wife, Betsy, took a year and a half away from traditional higher education roles. He jokingly calls this period his “cowboy era.”

A Cowboy Season

Lambert was raised on a small ranch in Kansas, 17 miles from the nearest paved road. Those years were also spent horseback riding. During his career pause, he returned to that world, taking a position on a cattle operation where he was paid to ride horses regularly.

“I’m a wannabe cowboy,” he said with a laugh. “The real cowboys didn’t quite see me as one of them.”

Still, the experience offered space to reflect on vocation, faith, and what might come next. As the couple neared the end of that season, they sensed a clear calling back to higher education.

“Two weeks after we said, ‘Let’s pursue higher education again,’ this opportunity came up,” Lambert said. “That wasn’t an accident.”

Building Community at GU

Lambert and Betsy now live in Hood Hall Apartments, where Lambert also serves as a functioning area coordinator. Betsy, who has worked in home health care for years, will join him on campus. Lambert describes this move as another example of his wife’s steady support.

“She’s been part of every big decision I’ve ever made,” he said. “Including moving into a residents hall at this stage of life.”

Since arriving, Lambert says one of the most encouraging aspects of his role has been getting to know the student development team.

“I’ve been impressed by their energy and their genuine care for students,” he said. “That matters. Especially in times of change.”

Looking ahead, Lambert hopes the campus and broader Greenville community will meet this season with openness.

“Our work in student development is part of the larger campus mission,” he said. “When we connect and collaborate, students feel that unity.”

For Lambert, the goal is simple, even if the work is complex: to help students stay in the mix, discover joy, and grow into who God is calling them to be.