Makeda Lands is Helping Build a Diverse Campus at Butler University

Makeda Lands, second from right, is the Associate Director of Admission, Diversity Equity and Inclusion at Butler University.

Makeda Lands’ path to Associate Director of Admission, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Butler University took many twists and turns—a background she says is helpful when advising incoming students who come from diverse backgrounds. After high school, she began college but never found a major that sparked her passion. She left school to pursue an acting career, worked as a teaching artist and early childhood education administrator and eventually found her way back to higher ed to get her bachelor’s degree.

“The second time around, my advisor was really intentional about getting to know me and helping me find my path as an adult,” Makeda says. “I decided to go into admissions because I wanted to be of service to students in that same way—so they know they have someone to support them.”

She found a school equally committed to the student experience when she joined Butler University. In the past 15 years in particular, the school has become intentional about finding opportunities to best support students and families—especially ones who might not feel welcome at a selective university like Butler. For example, the school adopted a holistic review process for student applications and conducted more high school outreach.

Butler wanted to do even more to attract diverse students, and decided to partner with Come to Believe to launch a two-year college in 2025. By bringing CTB’s model for a supportive two-year program to its campus, Butler can serve more students who might not have the on-paper qualifications or financial resources to attend a selective school.

“The CTB approach enables us to connect with all students, not just those who are affluent or have the best resume,” says Makeda.

A member of Butler’s design team, the working group that participated in CTB’s design grant program, Makeda was involved in bringing CTB to campus from the beginning. She hosted focus groups and learned of the deep need for a supportive two-year degree program in the Indianapolis area. When the school opens, Makeda is excited to be able to offer the same DE&I supports that students have on Butler's main campus, including access to the Diversity Center and the opportunity to join the Black Student Union and Latinx Student Union.

Bringing the CTB model to campus caused Butler to examine how it can better support its current students. Professors are rethinking their teaching styles, mentorship game plans, and advising strategies, all with the goal of making every student feel at home.

"We want Butler to be a place where every single student feels welcome,” Makeda says. “That’s how Butler approaches diversity and inclusion.”