2026 Butler University Founder’s Week Keynote Address: An Evening with Jim Obergefell

Last year marked the ten-year anniversary of the landmark Obergefell v. Hodges Supreme Court decision, which secured marriage equality nationwide. We invite you to join us for an inspirational evening celebrating the ideals of equity and resilience embodied by our founder and abolitionist, Ovid Butler, and by our keynote speaker, Jim Obergefell.

A self-described “accidental activist,” Jim found himself at the center of the fight for marriage equality not by plan or by any initial desire to become a civil rights advocate, but simply because he loved his husband. That experience transformed him into a purposeful activist, now dedicated to advancing equality for all. From marriage equality to bathroom bills, religious-freedom “right to refusal” policies, and conversion therapy, Jim shares his perspective as someone steadfast in the pursuit of civil rights and equal justice under the law.

This event follows University guidelines and approval processes, but the views shared are those of the organizers and participants—not necessarily those of Butler University.