Rob Lehr joined the GAR Foundation in 2018, bringing with him a wealth of experience. As Vice President of Programs, Rob works closely with the President to develop and implement the Foundation's grantmaking strategies. He drives positive community change by leading a high-performing grantmaking team, establishing strategic partnerships, and ensuring the successful execution of grant-funded initiatives.
In 2025, Rob was instrumental in establishing a three-year, $1M partnership with Peg’s Foundation, enabling GAR to administer and distribute additional arts funding in Summit County. Rob is actively involved in several key committees, including the Summit County Continuum of Care steering committee, the Fund for Our Economic Future governance committee, chairperson of the Summit County Arts Funders, and the lead team for the Immigration Network – Akron. Additionally, he serves as an ex officio member of the University of Akron Arts Advancement Council.
Since 2025, Rob has been part of the film screening team for the Cleveland International Film Festival. He served on ArtsNow's board from 2019 to 2025 and was a grant panelist for the Ohio Arts Council in 2023 and 2024. Rob is also a proud graduate of Leadership Akron Signature Class 38.
Before joining the GAR Foundation, Rob was a seasoned executive in the arts sector. He advanced numerous projects through organizational development, community building, fundraising campaigns, and strategic marketing for nonprofit organizations. With over 23 years of experience and a proven track record of success, Rob has managed hundreds of initiatives throughout his career. He holds a BFA from the Myers School of Art at the University of Akron and a certificate in Executive Team Leadership from the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University.
Believe it or not: Rob was awarded a student fellowship to attend one of the world’s largest contemporary art fairs – the Venice Biennale in Italy.