Office of the President
Innovative, accessible education has been Butler’s hallmark for over a century.
Our 21st president, James M. Danko, has brought entrepreneurial qualities to the office that has kept Butler a leader in a time of rapid change. He inspires our community to boldly innovate and expansively educate.
Jim Danko’s tenure has been marked by a focus on innovation, new programs, new facilities, and professional preparation.
Pushing Boundaries
Visionary Leadership that Solidifies Butler’s Future
“Butler is well positioned to pursue our stated vision to boldly innovate and broadly educate. Innovation is a strength of ours and critical to our future as we work to meet the changing needs of students. And we must continue to push the boundaries on who, how, and where we educate—providing access to those who desire, and deserve, a Butler education.”
Expanding Offerings
Expanding Access with a Game-Changing Vision
Butler University is at the crossroads of tradition and transformation. Our founding ideals of educational equity and academic excellence compel us to boldly innovate and expansively educate—thereby strengthening the positive impact we make on the learners and communities we serve.
Creating Momentum
An Era of Transformative Change
Back-to-back appearances by the Bulldogs in the 2010 and 2011 NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship games created a pivotal opportunity for Butler. Thanks to President Danko’s visionary leadership, and generous philanthropic partners, the University seized upon this unprecedented moment. Now, Butler looks to the future from a position of stability and strength.
Building On Our Successes
Milestone Moments
President Danko has changed the trajectory of Butler with over a decade of innovation –solidifying Butler’s position as a national leader among private institutions. Milestone moments include Butler’s move to the Big East, investments in cutting-edge learning spaces, innovations in teaching and learning, community partnerships that benefit the state and region, and the No. 1 ranking by U.S. News and World Report.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Building and maintaining an intentionally diverse, inclusive, and equitable learning and working environment is a strategic priority.
Butler’s First Family
Jim and Bethanie Danko put the Butler community—their Butler family—first. The Dankos open their home to host events for students and alumni, and represent Butler at civic functions and philanthropic events in the community. In her role as Butler’s Community Relations Associate, Bethanie Danko provides support to a range of University departments including the President’s Office, Advancement, Marketing Communications, and Student Life.
As the first dog of Butler University, this sweet Bernedoodle strives to support students through friendly, supportive encounters, and nightly walk appearances. Daisy also works with Butler Blue IV, Scooter the therapy dog, and Marcus, the BUPD K-9, to make Butler University the most dog-friendly campus. In her free time, Daisy can be found protecting the President’s residence from squirrels, gazing out the window, or snoozing in a sunbeam.
