Nikole Babb
nbabb@cherryroad.com
“Butler is more than a place to work.”
On Thursday afternoon Dr. Tamara Daniel was sworn in as Butler Community College’s, (BCC), sixth president. She spoke about her vision for the college, what she’s experienced since stepping into the role in June and what makes the community special.
Dr. Daniel is a first-generation college graduate with 25 years of leadership experience in higher education. She holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in Mathematics from The University of Mississippi, as well as a B.A. in Psychology.
Her higher education career began as a mathematics professor, where she developed a passion for teaching. She went on to serve several roles including Department Chair, Executive Director of International Studies, Associate Dean of Academics, Vice President, and Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at both urban and rural institutions.
Dr. Daniel began her speech by thanking those that came before her who made BCC the institution that it is today.
“I’m especially grateful for the presence of two strong female presidents, the immediate past leaders of Butler Community College, whose leadership continues to inspire,” said Dr. Daniel. “Their example reminds me that true leadership is measured by the opportunities we create for others. I also want to honor all who have come before me, the presidents, trustees, employees and community supporters whose vision and dedication built the foundation on which Butler stands today.”
Preceding Dr. Daniel is leadership was Dr. Jacqueline Vietti, who served as Interim President during the 2025 year when a candidate couldn’t be found after the first round of interviews. She previously served as the fourth President from 1995-2012. Dr. Kimberly Krull served as the fifth President from 2013-2025 until she retired.
Upon an interview with the Times-Gazette in September, Dr. Daniel said that her goals for the college included using data to drive decisions, long-term student support and strengthening partner relationships on campus. These priorities echoed in her inauguration speech on Thursday.
“Sound decisions must be guided by more than good intentions; they must be grounded in insight,” said Dr. Daniel. “We will use data not as a scorecard but as a compass to illuminate where we excel, where must improve, and how our actions shape the lives of those we serve.”
She also emphasized the community and uniqueness about BCC that she’s witnessed since arriving at the college.
“I have seen the culture that binds us together, a culture of pride, resilience, and commitment to excellence,” said Dr. Daniel. “Butler is more than a place to work. It is a community where people care for one another and where students always come first. That has been my greatest first impression, and it is one worth celebrating.”
After her inauguration, attendees were welcomed to a reception at the Hubbard Welcome Center on BCC’s El Dorado campus. There friends, family, peers and community members enjoyed light refreshments and snacks to celebrate Dr. Daniel and the future of BCC.
Butler Community College was founded in 1927 as El Dorado Junior College with 150 students, later named Butler County Community College in 1965. Now serving nearly 10,000 students each year, the campus has grown from one location in El Dorado to locations in Andover, the Flint Hills, McConnell Air Force Base, Rose Hill and a virtual campus. BCC serves as the second-largest community college in the state with 85% of students coming from Butler and Sedgwick counties. The college will celebrate its 100 years of service in 2027.
