About Founder’s College

arial of south campus quad of buildings, greens in center

Honoring our roots. Building your future.

Butler University has long been a trailblazer in education, from its pioneering history of inclusiveness to its nurturing culture of care that helps students find their place in an ever-changing world. Now, with the introduction of Founder’s College, Butler proudly extends its commitment to expand the opportunity of a college education.

Founder’s College is named to honor Butler University’s founder, Lawyer Ovid Butler, and to reflect Butler’s commitment to expanding access to education. Ovid Butler founded the University in 1855 alongside abolitionists who sought to create an institution free from the “pernicious influences of slavery.” From its inception, Butler admitted students of color and was the second university in the nation to admit women on an equal basis with men. It was also the first university in the U.S. to establish an endowed chair for a female professor.

Founder’s College continues this historic mission of inclusiveness and accessibility by focusing enrollment on Indianapolis-area students who face financial barriers or other obstacles to attending college. Associate degrees in industry-aligned fields can be earned in just two years, with the possibility of continuing to a four-year degree at Butler.

For Butler, boldly forging ahead is ingrained in our DNA. Founder’s College is just the latest step in that rich history of innovation and service.

Celebrating Butler’s Legacy

“Launching Founder’s College continues our University’s historic pledge to expand higher education access as a means of helping all people access opportunity. We continue to be inspired by our founder’s personal story. This name celebrates his legacy and uplifts our University’s values.”

James Danko
Butler President

Transforming Dreams Into Degrees

90%
of Come to Believe students graduate debt-free
50%
of Come to Believe students graduate in two years, compared to the national two-year college average of 13 percent
80%
of Come to Believe graduates go on to 4-year institutions