AUSTINTOWN, Ohio --  Baldwin Wallace University President Robert C. Helmer has been named as the President of the Ohio Athletic Conference Presidents Council for the 2020-21 academic year. Dr. Helmer became the ninth president of the University on July 1, 2012.  

"The OAC is fortunate to have Dr. Helmer's steady guidance and wisdom during this year of uncertainty, stated OAC Commissioner Tim Gleason.  "We are truly grateful that he has stepped forward to serve the Conference in such an important leadership role."

Highlights from Dr. Helmer's eight years at BW include the recent development of the University's 2019-2023 Strategic Plan, which sets a roadmap for institutional strength and purpose in the coming decade, establishment of new academic programs and fundraising that included the largest single gift in BW history.

In addition to the OAC, Dr. Helmer has provided leadership and expertise to a number of national, state and local organizations through board membership including service as a trustee for both the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC). At the state level, he sits on the boards of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Ohio (AICUO) and The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC). In Northeast Ohio, Dr. Helmer's board service includes The United Way of Greater Cleveland, Southwest General Hospital and Saint Joseph Academy. He is a 2015 graduate of Leadership Cleveland.

An active and vocal advocate for student success, Dr. Helmer often can be seen at campus athletic events, academic programs and performances; he also engages with the BW community and encourages Yellow Jacket student-athletes via Twitter at @BWPres.