Connecting Bulldogs

Butler has long been known for its first-year experience, earning a spot in the national ranks. But by hiring Nii Kpakpo Abrahams in 2022 as the inaugural Director of the First-Year Experience, the University is placing even more focus on ensuring new Bulldogs feel connected. “We have a moral imperative to deliver on the promises…

four images of students and faculty in mentorship positions

An Abiding Devotion…

One of the distinguishing features of a Butler education has always been the meaningful relationships between our students and faculty. In addition to being outstanding scholars in their fields of expertise and well-versed in the leading practices in teaching and learning, Butler faculty care deeply about their students. As students engage in undergraduate research and…

Two men walking in a hallway, one in a white shirt and gray pants, the other in a blue shirt and tan pants. both carrying a laptop computer.

Guided Paths

When Braxton Martorano ’22 came to Butler University in August 2019, he experienced a bit of culture shock. As a first-year student from a diverse city, he quickly realized that Butler’s culture was more homogeneous than he expected. That set the stage for a student–professor mentorship that would alter the course of his undergraduate experience…

Empowering impact

Butler alumnus and current MBA faculty member Mike Simmons MBA ’02 recalls three pivotal moments in his life that helped shape who he is as a person and had a direct impact on his professional success: His time as an undergraduate student at Wabash College His 30-year career at Eli Lilly with 11 years spent…

Follow Through

As a freshman at Cathedral High School in Indianapolis, Victory Sampson knew one thing—he wanted to go to college without adding a financial burden to his family.“I began a plan,” Sampson says. “I asked myself, ‘What can I push myself in, what can I participate in, what are all the activities that I can do…

The Indianapolis Center for Arts Education and Innovation at Butler University

Collaborative Community

In the heart of Indianapolis, a quiet revolution is underway. The Indianapolis Center for Arts Education and Innovation (ICAEI) is a visionary project led by Lisa Brooks, Dean of Butler’s Jordan College of the Arts, and Lauren Shelton, Director of the Butler Community Arts School. Together, they are working to bridge the gap between art…

Pursuing Passions

As a first-generation college student, Maylin Andrade Saracayo ’27 had an inspiring role model in her older sister who graduated from Indiana University and is now pursuing a master’s degree in Social Work at IUPUI. Saracayo had intended to follow in her sister’s footsteps by attending IU until a campus visit to Butler inspired her…

Breaking the Model

Early Learning Indiana had an ambitious goal, one that would address a major need across the state. While the demand for early childhood educators in Indiana is growing, there’s a lack of qualified teachers to meet the need. Early Learning Indiana, an organization that strives to ensure young children are prepared with the essential skills…

Nourishing Curiosity

As a self-proclaimed lifelong learner, College of Education Professor Catherine Pangan MS ’99 was looking to “scratch an itch with adult learners,” she says. “I believe curiosity never ends,” says Pangan, who’s been finding new ways to connect with the Butler community since she joined the College in 2008. That same year, Pangan moved into…

man with light brown hair in white lab coat with blue shirt and dark blue tie with white stripes

Thoughtful Planning

Teaching high school may look like an odd blip on Muhammad Jan’s healthcare-heavy resume. In actuality, this PA and 2023 graduate of Butler’s Doctor of Medical Science (DMS) Bridge program has followed a thoughtful plan to become a practicing healthcare educator. “My entire journey to this point has revolved around education. Knowledge is like an…

Creating A Hub

When Al Carroll ’13 addresses a room full of college students, he tends to ask two questions. The first one is “How many of you are from Indiana?” Hands around the room shoot up as students demonstrate their state pride. The next question tends to lead to a different response. “How many of you intend…

black & white photo of 1955 limestone 4-story building, trees in front, 1955 car parked in front.

Remembering Ross

Ross Hall, Butler’s oldest residence hall (circa-1954), was first referred to as the Men’s Residence Hall and later named after Butler’s 19th president, M.O. Ross. The hall witnessed just under 70 years of move-ins, move-outs, and first-years finding their way (in addition to many early morning fire alarms and stolen exit signs). And while Ross…

Current Bulldog Stories: Ryan Norman

One of the best things about being a Bulldog is the Butler community. As a student, Ryan Norman ’24 has built a strong network of peers and alums always offering to lend a hand. She hopes to do the same upon graduation, sharing the art of dance with students.

Current Bulldog Stories: Madeleine Hall

Madeleine Hall ’24 credits Butler for its supportive environment, encouraging her to pursue her artistic and academic passions. Majoring in Dance Performance and Psychology, Madeleine hopes to continue her education in graduate school and own her own dance company.