Butler University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Butler University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, human resources, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to experiential learning, Butler University integrates liberal arts with professional education, fostering a community that values hard work and practical application to build a foundation for student success.

Leadership Roles at Butler University

  • Group Chief Executive Officer - Butler Stay
  • Chief Financial Officer - Bob Whitmer
  • President - Ashni Patel
  • Lambda Chi Alpha - President - Kevin Odenwald
  • President - Kayla Wininger
  • President of Butler Alliance - Nickolaos Georgis
  • President - Marissa Mahoney
  • Vice President - Chief Human Resources Officer - Brenda Harrington
  • Charter Member - Frank White
  • Charter Member - Oral Hildebrand
  • Butler Stay - Group Chief Executive Officer

    Butler Stay, the Group Chief Executive Officer at Butler University, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational framework for the institution. This leadership role involves guiding the university's integration of liberal arts with professional education, ensuring a cohesive academic experience. Stay oversees the development and execution of long-term institutional goals, aligning departmental objectives with the university's core mission of fostering a community that values hard work and learning by doing. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to fostering key external relationships, including those with educational bodies and community stakeholders, to enhance Butler University's market position and impact. Butler Stay ensures that all university initiatives support the foundational principle of creating a successful environment for students and faculty alike, driving forward the institution's commitment to academic excellence and practical application.

    Bob Whitmer - Chief Financial Officer

    Bob Whitmer, the Chief Financial Officer at Butler University, manages the institution's comprehensive financial operations and strategic fiscal planning. This executive oversees budgeting, financial reporting, investment management, and resource allocation to support Butler University's educational and operational objectives. Whitmer ensures the financial health and sustainability of the university, implementing robust financial controls and driving efficiency across all departments. The Chief Financial Officer's role is critical in supporting the university's vision of integrating liberal arts with professional education by securing the necessary resources for academic programs and infrastructure development. Bob Whitmer's leadership ensures that financial strategies directly contribute to fostering a community that values hard work and learning by doing, enabling the university to achieve its long-term goals and maintain its commitment to student success. This involves meticulous oversight of all financial transactions and long-range financial forecasting.

    Ashni Patel - President

    Ashni Patel, the President at Butler University, spearheads the institution's academic and administrative leadership, driving its mission forward. This executive oversees all facets of university operations, ensuring the effective integration of liberal arts with professional education. Patel is dedicated to fostering a community that values hard work and learning by doing, creating an environment where students and faculty can thrive. The President's responsibilities include advancing academic excellence, promoting research initiatives, and strengthening the university's connection with its stakeholders. Ashni Patel's leadership ensures that Butler University remains at the forefront of higher education, adapting to evolving societal needs while upholding its foundational commitment to student success and holistic development. This involves strategic oversight of curriculum development and campus-wide initiatives.

    Kevin Odenwald - Lambda Chi Alpha - President

    Kevin Odenwald, the Lambda Chi Alpha - President at Butler University, leads the specific chapter of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity, focusing on its operational management and member development. This role involves guiding the fraternity's activities in alignment with both university standards and its own organizational principles, emphasizing leadership and community service. Odenwald ensures that the fraternity fosters an environment that supports academic achievement and personal growth, reflecting Butler University's commitment to integrating liberal arts with professional education. The Lambda Chi Alpha - President oversees chapter programming, recruitment, and adherence to bylaws, promoting a culture of responsibility and brotherhood. Kevin Odenwald's leadership contributes to the broader campus community by cultivating engaged student leaders who embody the values of hard work and collaborative learning, essential components of the university's educational philosophy.

    Kayla Wininger - President

    Kayla Wininger, the President at Butler University, directs key initiatives aimed at enhancing the student experience and academic programs. This leadership position involves overseeing strategic planning for student affairs, ensuring that the university's offerings effectively integrate liberal arts with professional education. Wininger is committed to cultivating a community that values hard work and learning by doing, fostering an environment conducive to student success and personal development. The President's responsibilities include collaborating with faculty and staff to implement innovative educational approaches and support services that align with Butler University's mission. Kayla Wininger's focus is on driving institutional growth and excellence by championing programs that prepare students for meaningful careers and active citizenship, reinforcing the university's dedication to holistic education.

    Nickolaos Georgis - President of Butler Alliance

    Nickolaos Georgis, the President of Butler Alliance at Butler University, leads the strategic direction and operational execution of the Butler Alliance initiative. This role focuses on strengthening partnerships and collaborations that support the university's mission of integrating liberal arts with professional education. Georgis works to foster a community environment that values hard work and experiential learning, connecting students with opportunities for practical application and professional development. The President of Butler Alliance oversees the development and management of key relationships with external organizations, alumni, and industry leaders to enhance the university's reach and impact. Nickolaos Georgis's leadership ensures that the Butler Alliance effectively contributes to student success by creating pathways for internships, research, and career advancement, reinforcing the university's commitment to preparing graduates for future challenges.

    Marissa Mahoney - President

    Marissa Mahoney, the President at Butler University, drives strategic initiatives focused on academic innovation and student engagement. This executive oversees the implementation of programs that effectively blend liberal arts foundations with professional skill development, aligning with the university's core educational philosophy. Mahoney is dedicated to nurturing a community that champions hard work and learning by doing, ensuring students gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge. The President's responsibilities include fostering collaboration among academic departments and administrative units to enhance the overall student journey and institutional effectiveness. Marissa Mahoney's leadership ensures that Butler University continues to provide a dynamic and supportive environment, preparing graduates to excel in their chosen fields and contribute meaningfully to society, upholding the university's commitment to excellence.

    Brenda Harrington - Vice President - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Brenda Harrington, the Vice President - Chief Human Resources Officer at Butler University, leads all human capital management strategies and initiatives. This executive is responsible for talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, professional development, and fostering a positive and productive work environment. Harrington ensures that Butler University's human resources practices align with its mission of integrating liberal arts with professional education and its commitment to valuing hard work. The Chief Human Resources Officer plays a vital role in cultivating a culture that supports faculty and staff growth, retention, and engagement, thereby contributing to the overall success of the university's learning-by-doing philosophy. Brenda Harrington oversees the implementation of HR policies that support the institution's strategic objectives and enhance the employee experience, ensuring that the university attracts and retains top talent essential for its continued academic and operational excellence.

    Frank White - Charter Member

    Frank White, a Charter Member at Butler University, contributes foundational insights and historical perspective to the institution's ongoing development. This role involves providing guidance based on the university's founding principles and early trajectory, ensuring continuity with its core values. White's involvement supports the integration of liberal arts with professional education by reinforcing the enduring importance of hard work and experiential learning. As a Charter Member, Frank White offers unique counsel on strategic decisions, drawing from deep knowledge of Butler University's heritage and its commitment to fostering a successful community. This position ensures that the university's evolution remains anchored in its original vision, promoting a holistic approach to education that prepares students for future challenges and opportunities. White's contributions are integral to maintaining the university's distinct identity and mission.

    Oral Hildebrand - Charter Member

    Oral Hildebrand, a Charter Member at Butler University, provides enduring guidance rooted in the institution's foundational history and values. This position involves contributing historical context and strategic perspective to support the university's ongoing mission of integrating liberal arts with professional education. Hildebrand champions the university's commitment to fostering a community that values hard work and learning by doing, ensuring that its educational approach remains grounded in these principles. As a Charter Member, Oral Hildebrand offers critical insights that help shape the university's long-term vision and operational strategies, reinforcing its dedication to student success. This role ensures that Butler University's development is informed by its rich heritage, promoting a consistent and impactful educational experience for all members of the community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Butler University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Butler University?
    Butler University is led by Butler Stay (Group Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Bob Whitmer (Chief Financial Officer) and Ashni Patel (President).
    Who is part of Butler University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Butler University includes leaders such as Butler Stay (Group Chief Executive Officer), Bob Whitmer (Chief Financial Officer), Ashni Patel (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Butler University have?
    Butler University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Butler University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Butler University includes roles such as Group Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, Lambda Chi Alpha - President, President.