Office of the President

Innovative, accessible education has been Butler’s hallmark for over a century.

Our 21st president, James M. Danko, has brought entrepreneurial qualities to the office that has kept Butler a leader in a time of rapid change. He inspires our community to boldly innovate and expansively educate.
President James Danko speaking at state of the university speech

Our 21st President: James Danko

Since Jim Danko became Butler’s President in 2011, he’s led the institution through transformative change—advancing academic excellence, inclusivity, and community engagement—while staying true to the values that have guided us since our founding. Through his leadership, Butler has achieved impressive national rankings for its First-Year Experiences, Study Abroad Opportunities, and Undergraduate Business and PA programs. Additionally, the University has maintained the No. 1 position by U.S. News & World Report in the Regional Universities–Midwest category—a distinction that underscores the University’s continued excellence and leadership within the region.

President Danko’s Bio
Strategic Direction
Headshot of James Danko

Jim Danko’s tenure has been marked by a focus on innovation, new programs, new facilities, and professional preparation.

Butler president James danko leaning on a half wall, in gray suit and purple tie

Pushing Boundaries

Visionary Leadership that Solidifies Butler’s Future

“Butler is well positioned to pursue our stated vision to boldly innovate and broadly educate. Innovation is a strength of ours and critical to our future as we work to meet the changing needs of students. And we must continue to push the boundaries on who, how, and where we educate—providing access to those who desire, and deserve, a Butler education.”

two females with dark hair

Expanding Offerings

Expanding Access with a Game-Changing Vision

Butler University is at the crossroads of tradition and transformation. Our founding ideals of educational equity and academic excellence compel us to boldly innovate and expansively educate—thereby strengthening the positive impact we make on the learners and communities we serve.

President Danko handing over diploma at commencement

Creating Momentum

An Era of Transformative Change

Back-to-back appearances by the Bulldogs in the 2010 and 2011 NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship games created a pivotal opportunity for Butler. Thanks to President Danko’s visionary leadership, and generous philanthropic partners, the University seized upon this unprecedented moment. Now, Butler looks to the future from a position of stability and strength. That stability has brought the opportunity to make a Butler University degree more accessible and affordable. In 2025, Butler launched Founder’s College, which allows students to attain an associate degree with little to no debt.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Building and maintaining an intentionally diverse, inclusive, and equitable learning and working environment is a strategic priority.

male student in blue and white striped sweater at computer, bookshelves behind

The Hub for Black Affairs and Community Engagement

Centering and elevating the Black experience at ButlerUniversity, disrupting systemic racism, and cultivating the collective Black strengths to build and maintain a more inclusive community.

Explore the Hub
President James Danko and Bethanie Danko pose with their black and white dog on a leash beside a "BU" statute.

Butler’s First Family

Jim and Bethanie Danko put the Butler community—their Butler family—first. The Dankos open their home to host events for students and alumni, and represent Butler at civic functions and philanthropic events in the community. In her role as Butler’s University Relations Associate, Bethanie Danko provides support to a range of University departments including the President’s Office, Advancement, Marketing and Communication, and Student Life.

Bethanie Danko’s Bio
Portrait of black and white dog named Daisy Danko, with a maple leaf in her mouth.

As the first dog of Butler University, this sweet Bernedoodle strives to support students through friendly, supportive encounters, and nightly walk appearances. Daisy also works with Butler Blue IV, Scooter the therapy dog, and Marcus, the BUPD K-9, to make Butler University the most dog-friendly campus. In her free time, Daisy can be found protecting the President’s residence from squirrels, gazing out the window, or snoozing in a sunbeam.

Meet Daisy Danko