Butler University President James Danko has once again been recognized among Indiana’s most influential leaders, earning a place on the Indianapolis Business Journal’s 2026 Indiana 250.
The honor marks Danko’s fifth consecutive appearance on the annual list, making him one of just 84 leaders statewide who have been recognized every year since the Indiana 250 debuted. Published annually by IBJ Media, the Indiana 250 recognizes leaders whose vision and leadership are shaping Indiana’s business, civic, education, healthcare, and nonprofit sectors.
President Danko’s Indiana 250 recognition comes as Butler continues to build momentum around its vision for the future. Over the past year, the University welcomed the inaugural class of Founder’s College, launched Boldly Butler—its strategic plan and comprehensive fundraising campaign—and continued expanding transformational learning opportunities that prepare graduates to make a meaningful difference in Indiana and beyond.
“It’s an honor to be recognized alongside so many leaders who are helping shape Indiana’s future,” Danko said. “I see this as a reflection of the Butler community more than anything else. Every day, I get to work with people who are deeply committed to opening doors for students, serving our communities, and preparing graduates to make a difference long after they leave Butler. I’m grateful to be part of a university that believes our greatest impact comes through the success of our students.”
Danko’s recognition is one example of Butler’s broad influence across Indiana. This year’s Indiana 250 also includes numerous Butler alumni and trustees whose work is helping shape business, healthcare, sports, philanthropy, and nonprofit organizations throughout the state, including:
- Michael Ash MBA ’99, Regional President, Fifth Third Bank
- Brian Bauer ’03, President, Indiana University Health Fort Wayne
- Keith Bice ’95, Managing Partner, Dentons Bingham Greenebaum
- Doug Boles ’88, President, IndyCar and Indianapolis Motor Speedway
- Jason Eckerle MBA ’99, Regional President for Central and Southern Indiana, PNC Bank
- Juan Gonzalez MBA ’00, President for Central Indiana Market, KeyBank
- Chris Gahl ’00, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Visit Indy; Butler University Trustee
- Marianne Glick ’73, MS ’74, Philanthropist and Community Leader
- Bob Hicks ’84, Chair and Managing Partner, Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP
- Sarah Myer ’06, President and CEO, Indy Chamber
- Patrick McGill, Executive Vice President and Chief Transformation Officer, IU Health; Butler University Trustee
- Judy Thomas ’90, President and CEO, Madison County Community Foundation; Butler University Trustee
Together, this year’s honorees reflect the many ways Butler graduates and leaders continue to shape Indiana’s future—from boardrooms and hospitals to businesses, nonprofits, and civic organizations. President Danko’s fifth consecutive Indiana 250 recognition underscores Butler’s enduring commitment to developing leaders whose impact extends far beyond campus.
To view the complete 2026 Indiana 250, visit Indiana250.com.