25 Facts About Butler University

Butler University's History

Butler University, located in Indianapolis, Indiana, has a rich history that spans over a century. Here are some fascinating facts about its past.

1. Founded in 1855: Butler University was established by attorney and abolitionist Ovid Butler. He aimed to create a higher education institution that was open to all, regardless of race or gender.

2. Named After Its Founder: Originally called North Western Christian University, the name was changed to Butler University in 1877 to honor its founder.

3. First Female Graduate: Demia Butler, daughter of Ovid Butler, was one of the first women to graduate from the university in 1862.

4. Civil Rights Pioneer: Butler was one of the first universities in the U.S. to admit women and people of color on an equal basis with white males.

5. Relocation: The university moved to its current location in the Fairview neighborhood of Indianapolis in 1928.

Campus and Facilities

Butler University's campus is a blend of historic and modern buildings, providing students with a unique learning environment.

6. Holcomb Observatory and Planetarium: Home to one of the largest telescopes in the state of Indiana, this facility offers public tours and educational programs.

7. Clowes Memorial Hall: Opened in 1963, this performing arts venue hosts a variety of events, including Broadway shows, concerts, and lectures.

8. Hinkle Fieldhouse: Built in 1928, this historic basketball arena is one of the oldest in the country and has been designated a National Historic Landmark.

9. Irwin Library: Designed by renowned architect Minoru Yamasaki, who also designed the original World Trade Center, this library opened in 1963.

10. Butler Arts Center: This complex includes multiple venues for performances and exhibitions, making it a cultural hub for the university and the community.

Academic Excellence

Butler University is known for its strong academic programs and commitment to student success.

11. Small Class Sizes: With a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, Butler ensures personalized attention and a supportive learning environment.

12. High Graduation Rate: Butler boasts a graduation rate of over 75%, which is significantly higher than the national average.

13. Top-Ranked Programs: The university's College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and Lacy School of Business are consistently ranked among the best in the nation.

14. Study Abroad Opportunities: Butler offers over 200 study abroad programs in more than 60 countries, allowing students to gain global perspectives.

15. Undergraduate Research: Students have numerous opportunities to engage in research projects, often working alongside faculty members.

Student Life

Life at Butler University is vibrant and full of opportunities for personal growth and community involvement.

16. Diverse Student Body: Students come from all 50 states and over 50 countries, creating a rich cultural tapestry on campus.

17. Greek Life: About 35% of students participate in Greek life, with numerous fraternities and sororities offering social, academic, and philanthropic activities.

18. Service Learning: Butler emphasizes community service, with students contributing thousands of hours to local and global causes each year.

19. Student Organizations: Over 150 student organizations cater to a wide range of interests, from academic clubs to recreational sports.

20. Campus Traditions: Events like Homecoming, Spring Sports Spectacular, and the Butler Bowl foster school spirit and community.

Athletics

Butler University has a proud athletic tradition, particularly in basketball.

21. Butler Bulldogs: The university's athletic teams are known as the Bulldogs, and their mascot, Butler Blue, is a beloved figure on campus.

22. NCAA Success: Butler's men's basketball team has made multiple appearances in the NCAA Tournament, including back-to-back championship game appearances in 2010 and 2011.

23. Big East Conference: Butler is a member of the Big East Conference, competing at the highest level of collegiate athletics.

24. Student-Athlete Support: The university provides comprehensive academic and personal support to its student-athletes, ensuring they succeed both on and off the field.

25. Intramural Sports: For those not competing at the varsity level, Butler offers a robust intramural sports program, with activities ranging from soccer to ultimate frisbee.

Butler University: A Snapshot of Excellence

Butler University stands out with its rich history and commitment to academic excellence. Founded in 1855, it has grown into a hub of innovation and learning. The university's dedication to inclusivity is evident through its early admission of women and minorities. Its beautiful campus, located in Indianapolis, offers a blend of historic and modern architecture, creating an inspiring environment for students.

Butler's strong emphasis on experiential learning ensures students are well-prepared for their careers. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, personalized attention is a hallmark of the Butler experience. The university's athletic teams, known as the Bulldogs, have a proud tradition of success, especially in basketball.

From its diverse academic programs to its vibrant campus life, Butler University provides a well-rounded education that prepares students for success in a rapidly changing world.