About Founder’s College

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.