The Morton-Finney Diversity Scholars Program at Butler University: Cultivating Inclusive Leaders

For more than 30 years, Butler University has honored students through the Dr. John Morton-Finney Diversity Scholar Award, recognizing their commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in their schools or communities. This prestigious program, known as the Morton-Finney Diversity Scholars Program, stands as a testament to Butler's dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus environment. The program not only provides financial assistance but also cultivates leadership skills and a sense of belonging among its scholars.

The Essence of the Morton-Finney Program

The Morton-Finney Diversity Scholars Program at Butler University is designed to support students who have demonstrated a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The program seeks individuals who have actively invested their time and energy in promoting these values within their schools and communities. By providing financial assistance and a supportive community, the program empowers students to continue their DEI work at the collegiate level.

Eligibility and Application Insights

Butler gift assistance is available only to full-time undergraduate students pursuing their first bachelor’s degree and is for tuition only unless otherwise stated. If you’re eligible for federal or state grants, federal student loans, or federal work-study, they can be a big help. Have questions about your financial aid offer, Federal Direct Loans, or other financing options?

Prospective applicants are encouraged to showcase their passion for DEI and articulate a clear plan for how they intend to contribute to the program and the broader Butler community. It is essential to reflect on past volunteer work and community involvement to demonstrate a genuine commitment to these values. Applicants should be authentic and share their unique perspectives and experiences.

Advice from Current Scholars

One current scholar recommends really sharing your excitement and passion for the program, along with a plan for how you want to better the program and the Butler community. Know who you are and how to share that in the application.

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A Continuation of DEI Work

Many students, like one scholar, see the Morton-Finney Diversity Scholars Program as a great continuation of their work in high school. They are excited to bring their passion for bettering the community to Butler.

The Morton-Finney Community Experience

The Morton-Finney program fosters a strong sense of community among its scholars. This community serves as a safe space for students to share their opinions, learn more about their identities, and feel supported by their peers and the program's staff.

Personal and Professional Growth

Through the Morton-Finney community, scholars gain invaluable experience in areas such as public speaking, graphic design, and leadership. These skills are honed through various programs, events, and volunteer opportunities.

Feeling Seen, Heard, and Valued

Scholars consistently express feeling seen, heard, and valued by the Morton-Finney/Diversity Center staff. This supportive environment allows students to thrive academically and personally.

Programs, Events, and Volunteering

The Morton-Finney program offers a wide array of opportunities for scholars to engage in meaningful activities. These include:

Serving on the Morton-Finney Equity Leadership Team (MELT)
Participating in the Community Connections Committee
Managing the Morton-Finney Instagram account
Tabling to high school students to promote the program
Volunteering with kids in the community
Attending engaging programming at meetings

Impact and Achievements

The Morton-Finney Diversity Scholars Program has a profound impact on its scholars and the Butler community as a whole.

Contributions to Campus Diversity Initiatives

Scholars actively participate in campus diversity initiatives, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable environment for all students.

Engagement with South Asian Culture

Scholars actively participated in several South Asian Student Association (SASA) events on campus, where I have learned about and engaged with South Asian culture.

Community Service Projects

The program encourages scholars to engage in community service projects, further extending their commitment to DEI beyond the campus.

Senior of the Year Honor

The cherry on top of my Morton-Finney journey was being voted Senior of the Year, an honor that I am incredibly grateful for.

Alumni Reflections

As I look back on my time as a Morton-Finney Diversity Scholar, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities it has provided me and the friendships I've made along the way. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey with me! And an extra special shoutout to Randall Ojeda, Miah McLaurin, and Lauren Smith, truly some of the best role models there are, always putting their heart and souls into this program.

Benefits of Participation

Being part of the Morton-Finney community has given me a profound understanding of the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Participating in various events, both on and off campus, has allowed me to see these pillars in action.

Leadership Experience

Scholars are able to really work on their leadership experience with this program. I was able to serve on the Morton-Finney Equity Leadership Team (MELT) in the Community Connections Committee. I started the Morton-Finney Instagram, tabled to high school students, and have worked internally to effectively communicate about this program.

Cultural Engagement

My involvement with SASA deepened as I joined the board, where I now focus on organizing culturally diverse events that invite the broader student body to explore and engage with South Asian culture.

Diverse Environments

I applied to the Morton-Finney Scholars Program to immerse myself in diverse environments that encourage openness to new experiences and foster welcoming interactions with people from various backgrounds.

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