Butler Lineage: New Leadership

Butler Lineage: New Leadership

Butler Community College officially recognized their new president Tamara Daniel in an inauguration ceremony on Thursday, Oct. 16.

Having started the position on Monday, June 23, the unwavering support from faculty and staff gave her the greatest first impression. From the beginning, Daniel saw a “culture of pride, resilience and commitment to excellence where people care for one another and the students always come first.”

Daniel knew then that “Butler is the spirit of every student who walks through our doors,” as she said.

An honor guard marched in the U.S. and Kansas flags in recognition of the sheltering forces that made space for the institution to exist and many of the foundational principles that it teaches. The choir, led by Professor of Vocal Music Matt Udland, sang the national anthem in harmony.

The event was presented in regal fashion as it honored its rich legacy of being an educational institution serving with “quality, integrity, service and caring” for nearly a full century. Kent Williams, vice president of Finance; Barry Robinson, vice president of Academics and dozens of others were dressed in their full academic robes and regalia.

Banners, bars and tassels all symbolize their commitment and investment in their own education and that of many others who were a part of each of their transitions.

Former Interim President Jackie Vietti, college employees and community offered two symbolic gifts in welcome. Flowers, signifying the diverse community that is bound together in support of shared traditions and values along with the Butler Mace. Symbolizing education’s power to accomplish and transcend, they recognized that her hands are the keeper of Butler’s flame.

“As we look to the future, our vision needs to be bold,” Daniel said.

This leader asks everyone to consider “how does this help students succeed” before making decisions about what to do with resources as the college enters its second century as an educational center. For them to act as careful stewards with “more than just good intentions, but with insight.”

Being an integral part of generating a stronger workforce in Kansas, Daniel spoke of building more partnerships and continue creating curriculum that “meet the needs of tomorrow.” As they use data “not only as a scoreboard, but as a compass to guide where to improve or excel”.

“Innovation and collaboration will carry Butler into the future,” Daniel said. “We must continue to partner with schools, businesses and community leaders to create new opportunities for our students.”

Much was shared about the duty and fiscal responsibility to ensure that every dollar strengthens the students’ education, supports our faculty and staff and sustains the communities they serve.

“True leadership is measured by the opportunities we create for others,” said Daniel in honor of all who came before her, especially the past two female leaders who helped make “Butler more than just a place.”