Lewis J. Baer ’72, ’07P, ’15P
Managing Principal of Newel LLC
Lewis J. Baer is the managing principal of Newel LLC, a family business now in its 4th generation that deals in fine antiques and the decorative arts of all period. Founded as a prop house for Broadway theatre by his grandfather, Mr. Baer has directed the Company since 2001. The business is one of leading dealers of decorative arts across the world and is still a critical suppler of period sets and furnishings for television, movies, and display.
Upon graduating in 1972 as an accounting major, Mr. Baer worked at Lybrand, Ross Bros. and Montgomery, (now PWC) as a staff accountant. After a year, and the death of his grandfather, he decided to make the commitment to join in the family business. Mr. Baer has successfully adapted the company to the dramatic changes in the art and antiques industry, as well as the growth in the demand for servicing film and television productions. He also implemented a proprietary computer and database system that advanced the company into the digital world.
Mr. Baer has been an active Lehigh alumnus and volunteer, having twice chaired his Reunion Fund Committee, was a founding member of the Lehigh Leadership Council, and served 2 terms on the College of Arts and Science Advisory Council. In addition, he has offered his gallery resources to faculty and students in the Theatre, and the Art, Architecture, and Design departments. Also, Mr. Baer was a trustee at the Dwight-Englewood School where he led a building fundraising campaign and a Master Plan for the School. He served 10 years on the City of Englewood Planning Board where he was Chairman and directed the most recent City of Englewood Master Plan.
At Lehigh Lewis played soccer and lacrosse and was member of the Beta Alpha Psi accounting honor society. He lives in Englewood, New Jersey with his wife, Lorraine. They have three children, Noah (’07), Jake, and Gabriella (’15).