A Promise to Our Supporters
Baldwin Wallace University is in a new chapter — one defined by transparency, accountability, and a renewed commitment to honoring the generosity of our supporters. We acknowledge that past financial practices did not always meet the high standards you rightfully expect. Today, under new leadership and with modern systems in development, BW is strengthening its commitment to responsible stewardship and clear alignment with donor intent.
President Lee Fisher, with oversight from the BW Board of Trustees, is leading significant changes in how donor-designated funds are managed, tracked, and communicated. Our finance and philanthropy teams adopted industry-standard practices that promote clarity, accuracy, and long-term protection of donor intent.
At Baldwin Wallace, we are committed to providing you with the tools, transparency, and support you need to stay meaningfully connected to your philanthropy. Managing and understanding the impact of your fund should be clear, accessible, and reliable.
Financial Controls that Protect Donor Intent
We have enhanced the systems and processes used to manage endowed and restricted funds by implementing more rigorous internal controls and clearer procedures. These improvements ensure:
- Greater accuracy in financial reporting
- Consistent alignment with donor intent
- Stronger oversight and review practices
- Reduced operational risk
Fund Management Resources and Impact Reporting
As part of this work, BW is strengthening its fund management infrastructure to ensure greater accuracy in how funds are tracked and reported. Improved accounting practices — implemented in coordination with our external auditors — ensure all reporting aligns fully with donor intent.
Endowed Fund statements you previously received have been paused, as we have been working to complete the implementation of new reporting systems and confirm data integrity.
Your Fund Statement + Improved Impact Reporting
We are also implementing Fundriver's Balance and Impact Reporting platforms. Balance is the new system of record for endowed funds, and Impact is an endowment donor reporting tool.
Together, this technology will help ensure BW donor investments are stewarded well, and:
- There are always correct calculations on endowment spending, using BW's policies and approved formulas,
- Every individual endowed fund is clearly tracked (restrictions, purpose, history, balances),
- BW is always audit ready with transparent, well documented records; and
- Donor reporting is clear, consistent and timely.
What Never Changes: Your Impact
While we strengthen our systems, one thing has remained constant: your impact.
- Scholarships have been awarded without interruption
- Students continue to receive meaningful opportunities
- Programs and services supported by your fund continue to thrive
- Your generosity has been honored as intended
Your commitment to Baldwin Wallace changes lives every day — and we are building the infrastructure to reflect that impact with the transparency you deserve.
Our Commitment Moving Forward
As we modernize our systems and strengthen our practices, one promise guides every decision we make:
We will honor your generosity with integrity, and an unwavering commitment to donor intent.
Your continued support sustains and grows this impact — ensuring that future generations of Baldwin Wallace students benefit from your investment in their success.
Questions About Your Fund
We're here to help. Please reach out to:
Danelle Baker-Miller, MBA '23
Director of Stewardship and Strategic Grants
(440) 826-2753, dbakermi@bw.edu
We're committed to responding promptly and making sure you have the information you need.