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.

President James Danko speaking at state of the university speech

Our 21st President: James Danko

Since Jim Danko became Butler’s President in 2011, he’s led the institution through transformative change—advancing academic excellence, inclusivity, and community engagement—while staying true to the values that have guided us since our founding. Through his leadership, Butler achieved the No. 1 ranking among Midwest Regional Universities in 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.

male student in blue and white striped sweater at computer, bookshelves behind

The Hub for Black Affairs and Community Engagement

Centering and elevating theBlack experience at ButlerUniversity, disrupting systemic racism, and cultivating the collective Black strengths to build and maintain a more inclusive community.

McKenzie Greene in the Diversity Center talking to two other female students

The President’s Council on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Advising the President, while monitoring and reporting progress, on the University’s efforts to build and maintain an intentionally diverse, inclusive, and equitable learning and working environment.

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.

president danko and bethanie danko and black and white dog on a leash

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.

Daisy Danko

What’s On Your Mind?

How’s your Butler experience? What could we do differently? President Danko wants to know. It’s why he regularly hosts town hall meetings, informal chats, and even office hours.