This summer, Butler University reimagined what it means to be part of campus life—welcoming more than 1,350 young learners through a bold new initiative that connects education, exploration, and community.

In its inaugural year, Butler’s Camps and Community Programs department combined two of the University’s cornerstone youth initiatives—Camps at Butler and the Butler Community Arts School (BCAS)—to create a unified, expansive experience. Over the course of nine weeks, students from across Indiana and beyond participated in 40 camps that spanned leadership, the arts, humanities, and sciences. And thanks to the generous support of the Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Indiana Youth Programs on Campus initiative, Butler awarded more than $120,000 in tuition assistance to campers—ensuring access and opportunity for more students than ever before.

One such opportunity was BU: BeReal, an overnight leadership and college immersion experience led by Butler faculty and staff. Campers explored campus life and engaged in thought-provoking conversations and activities, including during a field trip to the Indianapolis Children’s Museum. “With things like the Afrofuturism exhibit,” one student shared, “we got to see how leadership can seep into art and dress. We saw how stories, culture, and values all affect leadership and its outcome.”

That same spirit of discovery fueled programs such as the Future Healthcare Leaders Camp and Creative Writing Camp, hosted by the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences respectively. These pre-college experiences helped students deepen their academic interests while imagining themselves as future Bulldogs—ready to make an impact.

For younger students, the path to discovery started early. Butler’s Discovery Camps introduced first through seventh graders to topics like local food systems, environmental art, game-making, and the universe itself. Through hands-on exploration, campers engaged in creative problem-solving, imaginative design, and real-world inquiry, building foundational skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

And for those moved by the rhythm of movement or sound or interested in dabbling in painting or sculpture, BCAS offered nearly 20 summer programs in music, theatre, dance, and visual arts, led by Butler faculty and Teaching Artists—current Jordan College of the Arts students gaining experiential learning while mentoring the next generation of creatives. “It’s a great way for us students to demonstrate what we learn at Jordan College of the Arts and apply it to real life,” said Teaching Artist Chloe Payack.

This year’s Arts Adventure Camp exemplified the magic of this model: students played Orff instruments and painted their own galaxies, blending the structure of music with the imagination of outer space. It’s the kind of immersive, thoughtful programming that defines the Butler summer experience.

That same blend of creativity and intentionality powered the launch of Butler’s first-ever Esports Camps inside the state-of-the-art Esports Park. Middle and high school students spent the week learning strategy, teamwork, and professionalism while competing in games like Fortnite and Valorant—redefining what educational spaces can look like.

At Butler, summer is more than a season—it’s a chance to open our campus, connect with the community, and shape futures. Camps and Community Programs is transforming what it means to belong at Butler, one week—and one camper—at a time.