David M. Bellar Named FranU’s Fifth President

Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University's Board of Trustees announces the appointment of David M. Bellar as the fifth President of the University after a national search. He will assume his new role on July 14, 2025. 

Bellar joins FranU from the University of West Florida where he serves as the Dean of Usha Kundu, MD College of Health. During his tenure, he received a $6.68 million grant to enhance health education facilities, secured scholarship funding and gifts of space for immersive learning experiences at two hospitals, aided in implementing strategies to improve NCLEX pass rates to 98% for the School of Nursing, created the first Staff Council on campus, helped secure a partnership with two major hospital systems to support clinical space for nursing programs, and developed a virtual cadaver lab to enhance Anatomy and Physiology education.

“Dr. Bellar is a great talent and will be an exceptional servant-leader to the University. With his strategic vision and data-driven approach, he will lay the groundwork for our next 100 years,” stated Todd Schexnayder, FranU Board of Trustees Chair. 
Under Bellar’s leadership, the Board hopes for continued academic and program success, increased enrollment, academic achievement and the full development of the University’s Master Plan. 

“I am deeply honored to lead Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University in advancing our mission to educate and develop servant leaders. I look forward to collaborating with the Board of Trustees, campus leadership, faculty and staff to shape the future of this exceptional institution and build on its legacy of academic excellence and Franciscan values,” Bellar said. 

Bellar holds a Ph.D. in Exercise Physiology from Kent State University, a M.Ed. in Secondary Education from John Carroll University and a B.S in Biology and Life Science Chemistry from John Carroll University, 

He and his wife Trisha have eight children and he stated that all are excited to become part of the FranU community. 

Out of approximately 40 candidates in the nation-wide search, eight semifinalists were selected, followed by three finalists.

Dr. Tina Holland announced her retirement last May after 11 years of her presidency. Other past presidents to the University include Dr. Sandra Harper, 2006-2013; Dr. Michael Smith, 1999- 2006; and Dr. James Firnberg, 1993-1999.