Baldwin Wallace University strives to fulfill its enduring purpose by being a diverse, innovative, and caring educational community that empowers and accompanies each individual as they realize their potential for a life well-lived.
~Baldwin Wallace Mission Statement
Baldwin Wallace University, a private liberal arts & sciences university located in Berea, Ohio, seeks a highly qualified Vice President for Enrollment to shape and execute the University’s enrollment vision and strategy for undergraduate and graduate students. Reporting directly to Baldwin Wallace University’s President, Lee Fisher, and serving as a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Vice President leads an integrated approach to student recruitment, admissions, financial aid, and enrollment to ensure sustainable enrollment growth and fiscal health. Competing in a highly competitive educational landscape, this role requires a leader with a strong background in higher education, data-driven decision-making balanced with creativity, and digital innovation.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The essential duties and responsibilities for the Vice President for Enrollment are as follows:
Leadership
- Develop and implement a comprehensive, multi-year enrollment strategy aligned with the University’s mission and financial goals.
- Advise the President, Senior Leadership Team and Board of Trustees on enrollment trends, opportunities, and risks.
- Serve as the University’s thought leader on demographic shifts, tuition modeling, and market competitiveness.
- Provide strategic leadership and oversight to a team of five directors across Undergraduate Admission, Graduate Admission, Conservatory of Performing Arts Admission, Enrollment Operations, and Financial Aid, ensuring departmental goals are tightly aligned with the university's overarching enrollment mission and long-term fiscal health.
Enrollment Marketing
- Possess strong storytelling abilities to market and articulate the institutional value proposition.
- Develop and execute an admission marketing strategy that supports the University’s enrollment goals and expands Baldwin Wallace’s reach within target student segments.
- Ensure that recruitment and marketing efforts are aligned and mutually reinforcing and that all members of the enrollment staff, as well as the rest of the college community, have consistent, authentic, and resonant messaging to use when recruiting.
Technological and Analytical Sophistication
- Leverage advanced enrollment analytics and predictive modeling to inform recruitment, admission and financial aid strategies.
- Drive a culture of evidence-based planning and continuous improvement.
- Utilize technological platforms to optimize enrollment results and efficient use of staff resources.
- Possess the analytical capacity to assess the effectiveness of how recruitment and financial aid funds are employed to achieve enrollment goals.
Financial Aid & Revenue Optimization
- Direct the strategic and thoughtful use of financial aid, scholarships and discounting to balance accessibility with net tuition revenue goals.
- Partner with finance to model scenarios, monitor the tuition market and maximize enrollment ROI to achieve enrollment goals while maximizing the College’s net revenues.
- Oversee the planning and management of all financial aid strategies, including packaging, discounting strategy (leveraging), monitoring, and compliance.
Collaboration & Influence
- Partner closely with peer departments (Academic Affairs, Student Experience, Advancement) to align enrollment priorities with program demand and capacity.
- Collaborate with the Marketing/Communications team to ensure an aligned enrollment strategy.
- Represent the University externally with associations and national enrollment networks.
- Partner effectively with the Athletics Department and coaches in the recruitment of student athletes.
Student Success and Retention
- Provide oversight of initiatives to increase student retention, satisfaction and completion and that serve student needs and academic integrity;
- Demonstrate a commitment not only to delivering results in new student recruitment and yield, but, equally, to supporting student success, retention, graduation and lifelong engagement; and
- Establish partnerships with faculty and staff across the university to foster relationships of trust and empowerment within the community and build a culture of sustained organizational commitment to the retention of students.
Qualifications, Skills, and Characteristics
Baldwin Wallace is seeking an experienced enrollment management leader with a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible leadership in enrollment management, admissions or related areas. The successful candidate will be required to have earned a bachelor’s degree; an advanced degree from a regionally accredited institution is preferred. In addition, the successful candidate will possess the following:
- Track record of innovative student recruitment in competitive markets.
- Demonstrated success in developing and executing innovative enrollment strategies that produced measurable results.
- Expertise in enrollment analytics, CRM systems (Slate preferred) and predictive modeling.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills with the ability to inspire teams and influence across the institution.
- A self-starter that can own and articulate a clear vision and effectively build and guide a team to meet the goals that embody that vision.
- National perspective on enrollment trends and networks.
- Experience in traditional undergraduate and graduate students, as well as emerging segments such as online, adult learners, certifications.
- Comfortable with disruption and courage to challenge traditional methods and models.
- A record of delivering on enrollment goals and a demonstrated ability to develop and implement successful undergraduate and graduate admission, financial aid, and student success strategies.
Baldwin Wallace University
With a rich tradition of academic excellence that spans nearly 180 years, Baldwin Wallace University (BW) offers undergraduate and graduate training in the liberal arts and pre-professional programs that prepare students for the 21st century. Located in Berea, Ohio, a suburb of Cleveland, BW’s 150-acre campus blends scenic walkways, open green spaces, historic sandstone structures, and contemporary academic facilities, creating an environment that reflects both its heritage and forward momentum. Recognized among the top regional universities in the Midwest by US News and World Report, Baldwin Wallace combines academic rigor with a strong commitment to student success and career outcomes.
At Baldwin Wallace, education is more than just academics; it’s about fostering personal and professional growth through meaningful experiences. Its holistic approach ensures that every facet of student life contributes to a robust foundation for success and fulfillment. This approach leads to strong outcomes, with 96% of BW graduates employed or enrolled in graduate school within six months of graduation.
Since its inception in 1845, BW has been a pioneer in inclusivity, being among the first institutions to admit students regardless of race or gender before the Civil War. Today, this commitment endures as it embraces the diverse campus community, reflecting a broad spectrum of backgrounds and perspectives. This vibrant, inclusive environment fosters a sense of belonging and supports varied experiences that enhance the educational journey. Today, 25% of BW’s student body identifies as ethnically diverse, and 30% are the first in their families to attend college, reflecting the University’s continued commitment to access and opportunity.
Baldwin Wallace believes in a purpose-driven educational experience that combines effort with intentionality. Their students are encouraged to understand the deeper reasons behind their actions and to see how they contribute to broader goals. They view education as a lifelong journey, with alumni often describing their connection to BW as a lasting bond, encapsulated in the tagline: “Yellow Jackets for Life.”
US News and World Report has consistently ranked BW as a “Best for Social Mobility” and a “Best Value” university, reflecting BW’s success in enrolling and graduating first-generation college students BW’s commitment to providing generous scholarships and financial support has helped make college affordable for students from all backgrounds.
As one of the first colleges in Ohio to earn the state’s Collegiate Purple Star award and regular recipient of GI Jobs Magazine’s Gold Military Friendly recognition, BW’s rise to the top of the U.S. News list both validates and inspires them to keep working hard for military student success. For the 30th straight year, Baldwin Wallace University achieved high marks in U.S. News and World Report’s Best Colleges survey and received accolades for Best Undergraduate Teaching, Most Innovative Schools, Social Mobility, and Best Value.
Leadership
President Lee Fisher brings more than four decades of leadership experience across public service, higher education, law, and nonprofit sectors. He served 18 years in elected office in Ohio, including as Attorney General, Lieutenant Governor, State Senator, and State Representative, authored 10 laws including Ohio’s Hate Crime, Crime Victims Assistance, and Missing Children laws, and held senior leadership roles as Director of the Ohio Department of Development, Chair of the Ohio Third Frontier Commission, and Chair of multiple state boards. He also served as President and CEO of CEOs for Cities, led national initiatives including the $1 Million Talent Dividend Prize, and has served on the boards of nonprofit organizations and public companies. Fisher’s career spans private legal practice, federal appellate clerkship, teaching and leadership in higher education, and extensive fundraising, including raising over $20 million in public service and nonprofit campaigns.
Prior to becoming Baldwin Wallace’s 10th president, Fisher served as Dean and Joseph C. Hostetler-BakerHostetler Chair in Law at Cleveland State University College of Law. When he started in 2017, CSU Law had its lowest enrollment in over 50 years and the largest deficit among CSU colleges; under his leadership, enrollment increased 96%, the first-year class in fall 2024 was the largest in 15 years, and the College has run a healthy surplus for five consecutive years. He launched the P. Kelly Tompkins Leadership and Law Program and the first Leadership Certificate of its kind at any law school, chaired multiple high-level searches and strategic initiatives, and wrote the concept paper leading to the creation of the CSU Beth Mooney Center for Transformative Leadership, where he serves as senior advisor.
Throughout his career, Fisher has shared his expertise as a newspaper and magazine columnist, television and radio commentator, public speaker, and podcast host, frequently highlighting the value of a college degree. He has delivered national keynotes and led the CSU Law podcast Living Justice, Living Leadership, focusing on leadership, justice, and higher education.
Action Plan
Building What’s Next: The Transformation Action Plan, is a bold yet achievable roadmap for Baldwin Wallace's future. This plan reflects their shared commitment to shaping a sustainable future for Baldwin Wallace University - one rooted in clarity, collaboration, and a sense of urgency. BW purposely has called it an Action Plan rather than a Strategic Plan to convey the immediate actions that are required to meet the moment. It begins with a clear-eyed understanding of where the institution stands. The challenges are real: shifting demographics, rising costs, and a rapidly evolving higher education landscape. Yet within these challenges lie extraordinary opportunities to reimagine how Baldwin Wallace serves its students, stewards its resources, and strengthens its campus culture. As the university looks ahead, the following three overarching strategic imperatives will guide their transformation:
- Ensuring Student Success through academic transformation.
- Achieving Financial Profitability and Sustainability through strategic cost reduction, disciplined cost control, and innovative revenue generation.
- Establishing Trust and Transforming Campus Culture by fostering transparency, inclusion, and shared purpose across our community.
Academics
Baldwin Wallace’s commitment to focused, purposeful education is exemplified through its four schools: Carmel Boyer School of Business, School of Education and Health Sciences, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, School of Science and Engineering, and the Conservatory of Performing Arts. Each offers a structured approach to learning that emphasizes holistic development, preparing students not only for careers but for meaningful, impactful lives.
BW offers students opportunities to pursue their purpose through both the BW Advantage competency curriculum, and more than 75 undergraduate and more than 10 graduate degree programs.
Among BW’s many examples of academic excellence is the honors program, a community of scholars dedicated to leadership development and community engagement. The STEM Scholars program prepares students for careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics by providing them with exceptional hands-on learning experiences and mentoring.
Mentorship plays a crucial role in this process. BW’s dedicated faculty bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to their teaching. This close-knit academic community enhances the student experience, ensuring that every student receives individualized support and opportunities for growth. With an 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio, and an average class size of 18, Baldwin Wallace is dedicated to creating a meaningful, inclusive, and purposeful educational experience that empowers students to excel both personally and professionally.
Student Life
With more than 100 clubs and organizations for students, there are endless opportunities to discover where students belong in the BW community. Intellectual, social, and holistic growth in a community that provides comprehensive co-curricular engagement opportunities that are inclusive and welcoming. When a student becomes a Yellow Jacket, they are joining a thriving community where they can find a unique place to belong.
Generations of student-athletes have played with pride in Baldwin Wallace and for the love of their sport. Their scholar athletes compete at a high level in the classroom and in athletic competition. They graduate with the BW Grit that has helped build its lasting Culture of Champions. BW is a founding member of the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) and competes in NCAA Division III. The Yellow Jackets offer 28 varsity sports (14 men and 14 women), of which 23 compete under the OAC banner. BW’s student-athletes excel in their respective sports and in the classroom. Since 1969, BW has had 129 student-athletes selected as Academic All-Americans — the most in the OAC and 13th nationally among NCAA Division III colleges.
Enrollment
A new Vice President for Enrollment will join a united campus that delivers a vibrant academic culture and student experience aligned with Baldwin Wallace’s mission. As one BW community, its shared responsibility is to ensure that BW remains a top choice for students. Enrolling approximately 700 first-year students each year with an average weighted entrance GPA of 3.80, and serving 3,325 undergraduate and graduate students overall, Baldwin Wallace attracts academically prepared students who are ready to engage deeply in the life of the University. BW’s academic portfolio is anchored by distinctive areas of student interest, including Business (22%), Performing Arts (21%), Science and Technology (19%), Health Sciences (15%), and Social Sciences and Humanities (13%), providing a strong foundation for strategic enrollment growth. The Vice President will build on this momentum while leading a comprehensive enrollment strategy that advances recruitment, financial aid, and student success in an increasingly competitive market.
Baldwin Wallace’s commitment to access and outcomes is reflected in the fact that 100% of students are awarded financial aid and 86% of graduates choose to remain in Ohio, contributing to the strength of the regional workforce and community. Supported by a global network of more than 54,000 alumni, BW graduates benefit from strong professional pathways and lifelong connections. The Vice President will play a critical role in aligning enrollment strategy with Baldwin Wallace’s distinctive strengths, ensuring the University continues to attract, enroll, and support students who will thrive and contribute to its future.
Location
BW’s picturesque, welcoming campus is a blend of history and innovation, of new thinking and classic principles. Here, students walk the halls of majestic stone buildings that recall the University’s and city’s historic founding, as well as ultramodern facilities that meet the needs of 21st-century students. Almost 60 buildings are clustered on 150 park-like acres.
Students enjoy a compact, walkable campus with some 1,700 undergraduates choosing to live on campus. On the north quad, campus activities happen under towering native hardwood trees that have been there for generations. On south campus, students can stroll the wide pedestrian walkway of Grand Street.
Just steps away from the south campus, one can find Berea’s charming center of town called the Triangle, with shops and restaurants, as well as Coe Lake Park with trails, water sports, and summer concerts. Berea and campus are closely connected to the Cleveland Metroparks “Emerald Necklace”, which circles Greater Cleveland with biking, and recreation among preserved nature habitats. Berea continues to see significant investment and revitalization, further enhancing the environment surrounding campus. These efforts reflect strong civic and regional confidence in Berea’s future and reinforce Baldwin Wallace’s location within a thriving and evolving community.
BW’s commitment to sustainability was rewarded in 2019 with the prestigious STARS Silver rating from the International Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE). Campus sustainability efforts include five geothermal fields - including the first for a college residence hall - that heat and cool campus buildings. Two buildings are LEED certified. The campus is home to more than 1,500 trees, most native to Northeast Ohio, and Fullmer Arboretum. BW has been designated a Tree Campus USA® by the Arbor Day Foundation.
Just 12 miles up the road (a 20-minute drive), students can find the “All-American City” of Cleveland. BW students take full advantage of all that this thriving major metropolitan area has to offer. The city is BW’s classroom, workplace and playground and attracts students from across the Midwest and across the country.
The success of the three major league teams and numerous minor league organizations in northeast Ohio is fueled by the efforts of BW alumni at the Cleveland Guardians, Cavs, and Browns. BW faculty include members of the renowned Cleveland Orchestra. It is possible to see BW alumni in Broadway traveling shows at Playhouse Square, the second largest performing arts center in the nation.
BW helps businesses grow with C-level BW grads in every Fortune 500 company in Northeast Ohio. In every county in northeast Ohio, graduates from the BW School of Education provide critical leadership and thoughtful guidance to school districts large and small, urban and rural.
In addition to the 23,000 acre Cleveland Metroparks circling the city, Cleveland boasts a robust foodie scene with nationally-recognized chefs, and restaurants. And while Cleveland is listed as one of the top travel destinations in multiple travel industry-leading media, Northeast Ohio is also a great place to live, learn, play and stay.
Compensation
Baldwin Wallace offers a competitive compensation package, including relocation assistance, and a salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. Please speak with NES to learn more about the salary range identified for this role. In this important leadership position, the successful candidate will have an active on-campus presence. Offers of employment will be conditional upon satisfactory results of a background check.
To Apply
NES, a national executive search firm specializing in higher education, is assisting Baldwin Wallace with this search for a Vice President for Enrollment. If you wish to have a confidential conversation about this opportunity or submit nominations, please contact Laura Robinson (laura.robinson@nessearches.com) or Liz Daly (elizabeth.daly@nessearches.com). To apply, please send the following items: 1) a resume, 2) a detailed letter of interest, and 3) contact information for five professional references by email to: bw@nessearches.com by March 31, 2026. The position is campus-based, and the preferred start date is Summer, 2026. All inquiries, nominations, and applications will be handled with the utmost confidentiality, and candidates will be notified before references are contacted. The VPE’s anticipated start date is Summer 2026.
Baldwin Wallace University is an EEO employer and educator. At BW, we support and encourage diversity in a variety of forms. We value and appreciate inclusive excellence in the classroom, within extracurricular activities, and as we engage our community partners. Learn more at Diversity Affairs - https://www.bw.edu/about/diversity/