Awards

Bicentennial Medal - 2020

About Donald Buttrey

Donald Buttrey received a degree from Indiana State University in 1956. Buttrey served in the United States Army for several years, and then received a degree in law from Indiana University’s school of law. During his time there, Buttrey also served as an editor of the Indiana Law Review.

Buttrey practiced law for five decades, something he considered one of his proudest accomplishments. His career began as a law clerk from 1961-1963 to William E. Steckler, Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Indiana. Buttrey then joined the Indianapolis law firm of McHale, Cook and Welch from 1963-2001 and later joined the law firm of Wooden, McLaughlin from 2001 to 2010 serving of Council.

Buttrey was an active philanthropist, and in 2002, he co-created the Lake Institute of Faith and Giving at IU’s Lilly School of Philanthropy. The institute served to build a scholarly foundation through research, teaching and public service for the exploration of the concept that religion plays a vital role in philanthropy. Buttrey served on the institutes advisory board as well. Buttrey was an active member of the Second Presbyterian Church, and served as a trustee of the endowment and was a member of the board for the Center Point Counseling at the church. Buttrey was a member of the American and Indiana Bar Associations and additionally served as president of the Indianapolis Bar Association. Buttrey was appointed by the then Govenor of Indiana, Evan Bayh to the board of trustees at Indiana State University in 1992. He served two four-year terms, and also served on the Indiana State University Foundation’s board of directors. In 2020, Buttrey was presented the Bicentennial Medal for his distinguished contributions to Indiana University.