About the CUES

The Center for Urban Ecology and Sustainability (CUES) is an academic center at Butler University dedicated to the science and practice of urban ecology and sustainability. In the liberal arts tradition, we view urban ecology as inherently interdisciplinary and aspire to engage disciplines across Butler’s campus—from biology to business and beyond—in gaining a fundamental understanding of urban ecology and sustainability for a more environmentally resilient, economically viable, and equitable society.

The CUES is located on the Butler University campus in Gallahue Hall, Room 068. Our location within Indianapolis enables us to focus our efforts on the unique needs and challenges facing our campus and our city. While some of these issues may be unique to our local community, many are common to urban areas across the globe. It is our desire that the lessons learned here can be usefully applied elsewhere.

Our Vision

To be a national leader in the engagement of undergraduate students in the study, research, and practice of urban ecology and sustainability through established local leadership in urban ecology research, sustainability best practices, and community engagement in Indianapolis.

Our Mission

To innovatively research, educate, and empower Butler faculty, staff, and students and community partners in the research and establishment of best practices in urban ecology and sustainability that benefit society, the environment, and the economy.

We achieve our mission, by engaging Butler students, faculty, and staff as well as community partners in interdisciplinary research and education through place-based projects and public discourse. One of our most visible projects is the The Farm a Butler, an interdisciplinary campus learning hub and example of urban sustainability.