Higher education stands at a crossroads—perhaps the most challenging in its history. The value of a college degree is questioned more than ever. Demographic shifts shrink the pool of traditional students. Artificial intelligence looms, promising disruption across nearly every profession. And financial pressures weigh heavily on families, institutions, and communities alike. This is where vision matters most. And Butler’s moment is now.

In such times, a university cannot drift—it must chart a course. Strategy is the compass; vision is the horizon. True to its founding mission, Butler is called to lead with both.

I am reminded of Ovid Butler’s bold decision to create this institution in 1855. He acted in turbulent times—on the eve of civil war—yet his conviction was clear: education should be accessible, inclusive, and transformative. That founding courage is the same spirit we need today. Butler must once again be a beacon of hope and possibility.

For five years, the Butler Beyond strategic direction gave us a roadmap, fueling innovation across our campus. Together, we built new academic facilities, launched nationally ranked programs, expanded access through Founder’s College, and embraced technology and partnerships that extend Butler’s reach. That work laid a strong foundation for what comes next.

Now we take the next step: Boldly Butler—a new strategy and the most ambitious comprehensive campaign in our history. Boldly Butler is our commitment to transform learning experiences, build a dynamic campus and community, and ensure that Butler thrives for generations to come.

This means guaranteeing that every student has access to internships, research, study abroad, and mentoring that prepare them not only for jobs, but for lives of meaning. It means advancing the health sciences to meet the urgent needs of the workforce. It means ensuring that the arts and athletics continue to enrich our culture and visibility. It means keeping our promise of affordability so that a Butler education is accessible to all students regardless of financial circumstance. And it means embracing AI and emerging technologies—harnessing them as tools for discovery, teaching, and creativity rather than threats to our mission.

The strategy is ambitious by design. Our $325 million campaign goal—combined with partnerships and new revenue sources—will generate more than $500 million in investment in our students and community. But the true impact is measured not in numbers, but in lives: a student who discovers her calling in a research lab; an alumnus whose Butler degree opens doors across the world; a neighbor whose quality of life is enriched by Butler’s presence.

The road ahead will not be easy. But Butler’s history proves that challenge calls forth our best. We adapt. We innovate. We stay true to our mission. And we invite you—alumni, donors, parents, faculty, staff, students, and friends—to be part of this bold journey.

Together, we will ensure that Butler continues to shine as a national leader in innovation, a place where students flourish, and a community where the value of education is not questioned, but proven every day.

Thank you for walking with us into this bold future.