A Proud Family Legacy

It was a proud moment for Indiana University South Bend alumna Ivy Butler, BS’O9, Elementary Education, as she watched her two daughters, Tequisha Butler and Natasha McCallister, walk across the commencement stage to receive their degrees from her alma mater last spring.

Ivy’s oldest daughter, Tequisha Butler, BS’20, Health Care Management, was recognized at IU South Bend’s 2021 commencement ceremony along with her sister, Natasha McCallister, BS’21, Health Administration. Ivy’s joy continued when two days later, her oldest son, Rico Butler II, BS’21, Criminal Justice, graduated from IU East. In addition, her youngest son, Rico Butler Jr, earned his certification in Electronics and Computer Technology from Ivy Tech Community College in 2021, and will graduate in 2022 with an associate degree in Electrical Engineering.

Ivy’s children credit Ivy and her late husband, Rico Butler, for being strong role models. Ivy pursued her degree at IU South Bend while raising her four children. “Mom was superwoman,” said Tequisha with a smile.

Ivy and her husband were high school sweethearts and wed at age 19. They were married 24 years before her husband passed away. After earning her associate’s degree, Ivy kept going. She attended IU South Bend and graduated with her a master’s degree in management from Indiana Wesleyan and is in the process of completing her doctorate at Capella University. “Each step helped me be able to help the kids,” Ivy said.

Inspired to help children

Reflecting on her own accomplishments, Ivy attributes her achievements to the strong values her mother fostered in her. “My mother, Mamie Reed, encouraged and instilled the importance of education and a spiritual foundation to succeed in life,” said Ivy. “Because I had a strong support system, I followed the same parenting structure: staying connected, checking in, being aware of all the available resources, having those challenging conversations, asking questions, and expecting positive change as my children learned, developed, and grew into adulthood.”

In 2000, Ivy and her husband founded New Vision Christian Academy, where the Butler children earned their high school diplomas. “We were inspired to help children,” said Ivy. “Our school offers children one-on-one instruction, helping them learn and reach their full potential.”

The couple also founded a church, Power in Praise Crusade Ministries, which has grown to a congregation of 250 people. Prior to his death, Ivy’s husband was the pastor. Today, Ivy leads the church.

Opening a world of possibilities

Ivy credits IU South Bend with opening her mind to the world of possibilities. “My professors shaped my mind and helped me see what’s possible,” she explained. One of her most cherished awards was being nominated by her professors and selected to receive the Indiana Association Colleges of Teacher Education 2009 Outstanding Future Educators Award. Out of 10,000 students, 100 outstanding future educators across the state who excel academically and in student teaching, and show excellent professional promise are chosen for the prestigious award. They also demonstrate a range of inspiring work in leadership and working with students by modeling the commitment and dedication necessary for all educators. “My name is on a plaque hanging in the School of Education building for all my children to see,” Ivy said.

In addition to leading the school and the church, Ivy is an adjunct lecturer at IU South Bend, teaching future teachers how to be effective educators and how to make a positive impact in our educational system for future success. Ivy also taught as an adjunct lecturer at Ivy Tech Community College from 2013 until 2015.

As a student Ivy was the beneficiary of the School of Education’s Dr. Richmond E. Calvin and Dr. Virginia Calvin Scholarship. She went on to join Virginia Calvin as a founding member of the South Bend chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, an organization that strives to make a significant difference for black women and girls in the community.

Making a positive impact

Like their parents, the Butler children are inspired to be positive mentors in the community. To help others make the transition from high school to college, Tequisha and Natasha are starting the mentoring program, Mentor Me. “The transition from high school to college can be difficult,” said Tequisha. “It helps to have someone who has gone through the transition before and can help you stay on track, striking a good balance between fun and study.” Natasha, who has three children, noted that many students must also balance raising families and work obligations while going to school.

Likewise the Butler brothers and their brother-in-law, LaVonte McCallister, who is currently enrolled at IU South Bend, use their musical talents to teach children and teens music. In addition to assisting at New Vision Christian Academy, Tequisha is employed at Memorial Hospital and Natasha works remotely for Aerotek, a recruiting firm. Ivy’s two sons and her son-in-law, LeVonte, work for the City of South Bend Public Works. Rico II, is completing the requirements to join the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy. Rico Jr. plans to attend Purdue Polytechnic to earn his Electrical Engineering degree after he completes his associate degree at Ivy Tech.

The family continues to strive to help others achieve their dreams through education. In honor of her late husband and the children’s father, Ivy and her children established the Bishop Rico Butler Foundation. Each year, the foundation awards a $500 college scholarship to one student. In addition, Ivy is opening Early Learners Day Care to help parents stay in school and further their education. Chancellor Susan Elrod invited Ivy to serve on an ad hoc Parent and Family Engagement Task Force aimed at identifying new ways IU South Bend can expand its parent and family programs and engagement.

“The Butler family is just one shining example of how IU South Bend educates generation after generation, which in turn, builds a legacy of alumni who are change-makers in our community,” said Chancellor Elrod.

Reflecting on her children’s accomplishments, Ivy said, “I am extremely proud of my four children because their father, my husband, passed away seven years ago, and that was very difficult for all of us. Their grandfather, my husband's father, passed the week prior to their graduation ceremony. However, my children and other IU prospective students can be inspired by their life story knowing they can pursue their dreams no matter what life may bring your way.”