SUNY Sullivan will host a memorial service to celebrate the life and legacy of Professor Emeritus Thomas J. Lambert on Friday, May 2 at 1 p.m. The service is open to the public, and all former students, colleagues, and community members are invited to attend.
Professor Lambert was a cherished educator, mentor, and friend who profoundly impacted the SUNY Sullivan community during his 43-year tenure. Lambert left an enduring mark on the institution and its students. Known for his passion, empathy, and unwavering commitment to education, he taught approximately 15,000 students throughout his long career, often forming deep, lasting connections.
His journey to SUNY Sullivan began after leaving the Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio. He was drawn to SUNY Sullivan’s mission to “educate, inspire, and empower” its students. That alignment with his own values inspired him to embrace his role wholeheartedly, quickly becoming a beloved figure on campus.
In 2016, Lambert was named Professor Emeritus, and the New York State Senate passed a resolution recognizing his decades of dedicated service and the profound influence he had on the college community.
His teaching style was defined by a deep understanding of his students, often sensing their unspoken questions and encouraging them to realize their potential. His legacy continues to inspire.
“As a former student, Professor Lambert had a profound impact on me,” said Jason Kaplan, Interim Dean of Liberal Arts, Science, and Health Sciences. “As a College administrator and local resident, I regularly hear from people who share similar experiences with him. That shows the real impact that Professor Lambert has had on our local community over his four decades at SUNY Sullivan.”
“Professor Lambert helped me discover that I was meaningful, and that my presence in this world was necessary and not to be discounted,” said Anne Marchel, SUNY Sullivan’s Registrar, and a former student. “He helped me and his other students understand our purpose.”
A colleague of Professor Lambert, Anne Ruszkiewicz, Professor of Liberal Arts, Humanities and Social Science said “The influence of Tom Lambert whether as a professor or a friend was transformative and indelible in all the lives he touched. He was a caring, thoughtful friend, a compassionate human being, and a brilliant and inspiring teacher. He leaves us with many wonderful, warm memories, unfailing inspiration to strive for excellence in all we do. All of us who knew him will always be a little lonely for him, and immeasurably better for it as well.”
“Every once in a lifetime you meet a human being who you can turn to no matter how bad your circumstances,” said Dr. Thomas Martin, Professor of History. “A gentle friend who will listen, roll up their sleeves and offer to help without an ounce of judgment or shame. Seventeen years ago when I arrived at SUNY Sullivan, I met that person. He was Tom Lambert.”
Join us as we remember Professor Emeritus Tom Lambert, who dedicated many years to educating and inspiring his students during his distinguished career as a Professor of Sociology. His passion for teaching and his deep commitment to his students left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of learning from him, as well as those who worked beside him.
The Thomas J. Lambert Memorial Fund
Honoring a Legacy of Education, Inspiration & Service
Remember and celebrate the profound impact of Professor Emeritus Thomas J. Lambert, a cherished educator who inspired countless lives.
To honor his legacy, we have established The Thomas J. Lambert Memorial Fund to Support Liberal Arts, Sciences, and Health Sciences. This fund will advance academic initiatives reflecting Professor Lambert’s dedication to learning, equity, and interdisciplinary education.
Your contribution will empower SUNY Sullivan to continue his vital work of fostering student growth, achievement, and meaningful contributions to the world.
To make a donation in Professor Lambert’s memory, click here, email foundation@sunysullivan.edu, or call (845) 434-5750 x3188.