Robert C. Helmer, Ph.D., J.D., began his tenure in July 2012 as the ninth president of Baldwin Wallace University after serving nine years as president of Lourdes University in Sylvania, Ohio. Dr. Helmer has established himself as a dynamic leader in higher education with demonstrated strengths in curriculum development, enrollment, campus life, fundraising, and facility development. In his tenure at BW, Dr. Helmer led the formation of BW’s Strategic Plan which, sets a roadmap for institutional strength and purpose in the coming decade; oversaw the establishment of new programs; and helped to secure the largest single gift to BW. 

Dr. Helmer has provided leadership and expertise to a number local, regional, and national organizations, including the Southwest General Health System, Playhouse Square, the United Way of Greater Cleveland, the Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges, the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Ohio, the Higher Learning Commission, and the Council of Independent Colleges. 

A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Dr. Helmer received his Ph.D. from Marquette University, and his J.D. from the University of Toledo.