BEREA, Ohio — Baldwin Wallace University will host retired Coast Guard Rear Admiral J. Timothy Riker as keynote speaker for its fall Commencement on Dec. 13th.

Riker’s five-decade career reflects a deep commitment to the U.S. Coast Guard and enduring ties to Baldwin Wallace University.

A 1970 BW graduate, he served on active duty and in the Reserve, earning multiple recalls for key assignments — including Desert Storm, Uphold Democracy, Great Lakes pilotage oversight, and leadership roles at Coast Guard Headquarters.

Riker ultimately chaired the Doctrine Study Group, helping update the services’ central strategic publication.

His distinguished service earned him numerous high-level decorations before his retirement in 2010, still his commitment to the Coast Guard community continues, a

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