Butler University proudly announces that three exceptional individuals—Reverend Jean McAnulty Smith ’65, Bruce Arick, and Charles H. DeBow Jr. ’48, MS ’53—will receive honorary degrees during the Spring Commencement ceremony at Hinkle Fieldhouse on Friday, May 9, 2025, at 4:30 PM. Reverend Smith will receive an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters, while Arick and DeBow will each be awarded an honorary Doctor of Public Affairs.

In selecting honorary degree recipients, Butler University celebrates individuals whose lives and work reflect the University’s core values and who have demonstrated exceptional achievement in scholarship, creativity, leadership, and public service—contributing meaningfully to their communities and enriching society.

Reverend Jean McAnulty Smith ’65

Butler University proudly recognizes Jean McAnulty Smith ’65, a trailblazing journalist, dedicated civic leader, and champion of education and philanthropy. Over a career spanning several decades, she has made lasting contributions to the media, banking, philanthropy, and community engagement, all while serving as a passionate advocate for equity, inclusion, and student success.

A proud Butler alumna, Smith earned her Bachelor of Arts in Journalism in 1965. She became the first Black woman to serve as Press Secretary for an Indiana Governor, a milestone that garnered national recognition. She also worked as a reporter for the Indianapolis Star, a Vice President at Indiana National Bank, and a Program Director at Lilly Endowment Inc., where she led transformative funding initiatives supporting clergy and community development.

Her commitment to service and education extends far beyond her professional career. Smith served as Butler’s first Black trustee (1981–1993) and later as a Trustee Emerita, providing visionary leadership and advocacy for students and faculty alike. Her impact on Butler continues through the Reverend Jean McAnulty Smith Scholarship, which she established to support first-generation Black women pursuing higher education.

In recognition of her decades of civic engagement, Smith has received numerous accolades, including two Sagamore of the Wabash awards, the Madame C.J. Walker Award, and induction into The Indiana Academy. She has also served on the boards of Christian Theological Seminary, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Indianapolis, the Center for Leadership Development, and The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, among many others.

Smith’s lifelong dedication to education, mentorship, and philanthropy has uplifted countless individuals and communities. Through her pioneering leadership, she has opened doors for future generations, inspired positive change, and reinforced the values of service and excellence that define Butler University.

Bruce Arick

Butler University is honored to recognize Bruce Arick, an esteemed leader whose three-decade tenure at Butler has shaped the University’s financial health, infrastructure, and long-term success. Upon retiring in early 2025 as the Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration, Arick’s steady leadership, financial stewardship, and dedication to Butler’s mission have left an indelible mark on the institution.

Arick first joined Butler in 1989, beginning a career that would span more than 30 years of transformational impact. He played a pivotal role in shaping the University’s physical and financial landscape, overseeing projects that modernized and expanded Butler’s campus while maintaining its strong fiscal foundation. His work included guiding major capital projects, financial strategies, and campus master planning—initiatives that have significantly enhanced the Butler student experience.

One of his most notable contributions was his instrumental role in the creation of Founder’s College, an initiative that expanded access to Butler’s high-quality education while fostering a more diverse and inclusive learning environment. His firm dedication to equity and inclusion has ensured that Butler’s commitment to accessibility continues to grow.

Beyond his financial and administrative expertise, Arick is known for his integrity, strategic foresight, and commitment to excellence. His leadership has fostered a culture of transparency, collaboration, and long-term sustainability, allowing Butler to thrive even in times of economic uncertainty.

Arick’s legacy at Butler is one of service, stewardship, and impact. His contributions will continue to shape Butler’s trajectory for generations to come. The University proudly honors Bruce Arick for his extraordinary service and dedication to Butler’s mission, students, and community.

Charles DeBow Jr. ’48, MS ’53

Butler University is proud to honor Charles Henry DeBow Jr. ’48, MS ’53, a distinguished alumnus, pioneering aviator, decorated military veteran, and dedicated educator whose courage, perseverance, and service exemplify the University’s highest ideals.

Born in Indianapolis in 1918, DeBow made history in 1942 as one of the first five Tuskegee Airmen to complete training and become an official U.S. Army Air Force pilot. As commander of the 301st Fighter Squadron, he flew 52 combat missions in World War II, including in the historic D-Day operations. Facing both racism and wartime dangers, he carried out his service with extraordinary bravery, becoming a symbol of determination and excellence for generations to come.

After the war, DeBow returned to Indianapolis and earned his bachelor’s degree from Butler University in 1948, followed by master’s degrees from both Butler University and Indiana University. He dedicated the remainder of his career to education and community service, teaching in Indianapolis Public Schools and later at Thomas Carr Howe High School, where he became the school’s first Black educator. He continued his service in the Air Force Reserve for two decades, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel, and later worked as a professor of English at Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis.

DeBow’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. His role as a pioneering Tuskegee Airman paved the way for future generations of Black military pilots, reshaping the landscape of the U.S. Armed Forces and civil rights in America. His life’s work—both in combat and in education—embodies the principles of resilience, leadership, and service.

Through this honorary degree, Butler University recognizes Charles DeBow Jr.’s extraordinary contributions to aviation, education, and civil rights. His unparalleled legacy of courage and commitment continues to inspire and shape the world today.

Today, we celebrate three extraordinary individuals whose impact spans generations, whose service uplifts communities, and whose legacies reflect the very best of what Butler stands for. Reverend Smith, Mr. Arick, and Mr. DeBow each represent the profound difference one person can make—at Butler, in Indianapolis, and around the world.

Butler University’s Commencement Ceremony will begin at 4:30 PM EST on Friday, May 9, and will be live streamed at butler.edu/live