University Development

Ovid Butler Society

Butler University was founded by Ovid Butler, whose commitment was to provide lifelong learning to a diverse and deserving community of students. Thanks in large part to loyal alumni and friends like Ovid, the University has been able to offer a liberal arts-infused education that develops students as engaged citizens who are committed to making a positive difference in the world since it opened its doors in 1855.

Butler recognizes donors who annually demonstrate leadership with their monetary gifts, by recognizing them through the Ovid Butler Society.  The Ovid Butler Society is Butler's premier recognition society.  Society donors play a critical role in funding many of the important initiatives that keep Butler's reputation strong, attract the best students, and fulfill the promise of a Butler education.

Recognition

The best reward you can receive from being a donor to Butler is, of course, the satisfaction of knowing that you make a difference in the lives of Butler students. Nevertheless, Butler likes to publicly thank all donors and provide special recognition to OBS donors.

Although Butler's fiscal year is June 1 through May 31, recognition as an Ovid Butler Society (OBS) donor begins upon receipt of your OBS gift and continues for one year. Your OBS gift provides privileges for you and another adult member of your household.

A gift or combination of gifts to any college, department, scholarship, program or gift fund on campus, at an Ovid Butler Society giving level, recognizes you as an OBS donor.

If you are employed by or associated with a company that matches gifts to Butler, or your spouse or partner is affiliated with such a company, your matching gifts count toward your OBS recognition.

Students and graduates of the last decade receive OBS recognition at a modified level.  This recognition will be given to undergraduate, graduate, or doctorate students.  

If you have more than one degree from Butler University, the graduation date of your most recent degree is used to calculate your appropriate OBS giving level, if there is less than a five year difference between the graduation dates of your degrees. 

For alumni living in the same household who did not graduate in the same year, the most recent degree year is used to calculate the appropriate OBS giving level for that household.

Giving Levels and Privileges

Butler University is eager to honor members of its recognition societies and act as a good steward of philanthropic support; therefore, only limited funds are spent recognizing donors for their generosity. An Ovid Butler Society gift provides membership privileges for two adult members of your household.

The Founders Circle ($1,000 - $2,499) ~ Show Benefits

Named to commemorate the founding of the Ovid Butler Society in 1988.

  • Specially designed Ovid Butler Society enamel lapel pin for first time donors.
  • Listing in the annual Honor Roll of Donors, a part of the Butler Magazine.
  • Invitations to participate in special events such as receptions, educational seminars, campus tours and guest lectures hosted by the OBS Executive Committee on campus.
  • For donors of $1,500 or more to an academic fund, admittance to the Bulldog Club Hospitality Area during men's home basketball games.
  • Opportunity to purchase membership to the Health and Recreation Complex.
  • Discounts on campus space rental-limited to availability and meeting purposes.
  • Discounts on merchandise in the Butler University Bookstore-excluding textbooks.
  • Discounts on adult tickets to select events at Clowes Memorial Hall-limit of four tickets.

The Irvington Circle ($2,500 - $4,999) ~ Show Benefits

Named in remembrance of the Irvington campus where the school was officially named Butler College.

  • All privileges associated with the Founders Circle.
  • 'Ovid Butler Society, Butler University' license plate frame.

The Forest Home Circle ($5,000 - $9,999) ~ Show Benefits

Named for Ovid Butler's home, where the founders met to establish Butler University in 1850.

  • All privileges associated with the Irvington Circle.
  • A personal meeting with a faculty or staff member from an area on campus that is of interest to you.

The Presidents Circle ($10,000 - $24,999) ~ Show Benefits

Named to honor those who have served as president of Butler University.

  • All privileges associated with the Forest Home Circle.
  • An invitation to a private meeting with the University President and First Lady.

The Jordan Hall Circle ($25,000 and above) ~ Show Benefits

Named for one of the most enduring symbols of Butler University's campus, the landmark of historic Jordan Hall.

  • All privileges associated with the Presidents Circle.
  • A Campus Experience Day personalized for you and a guest, including experiences such as an overnight stay in University housing, attendance of events, and a private lunch at the President and First Lady's home.

If you have questions about the Ovid Butler Society or would like to receive more information about the Ovid Butler Society, please contact the Office of Annual Giving at (317) 940-9469.