March 4, 2025 — The Foundation for Fraternal Excellence is saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Past President Jason Butler on February 28, 2025. Jason’s FFE Board service began in 2016 as a director, later holding the roles of vice president and president (2020-21).
“Jason was a true servant leader in our industry who offered wonderful perspective and meaningful input. He loved his fraternity experience and believed that we should do everything in our power to keep the fraternity/sorority experience available and accessible to outstanding young men and women so they would reap the same benefits that he had. He will be missed by all who worked with him,” said Marsha Grady, Alpha Chi Omega Foundation Chief Development Officer and FFE President.
A fraternity man who dedicated his professional career to advancing the experience, Jason served as the Director of Leadership Giving at the FarmHouse Foundation since 2019. Prior to FarmHouse, he worked at his own organization Delta Chi Fraternity, then at Pennington & Company for 15 years.
FarmHouse Foundation Executive Director & CEO and FFE Past President Allison Rickels shared, “Jason was not just a colleague but my friend for more than 20 years. He was a quiet leader who led with intention. He dedicated his life to the values and mission of fraternities — not just believing in their purpose but living it every day.”
Pennington & Company CEO and Delta Chi International President Patrick Alderdice said, “Jason loved Delta Chi and gave his time, talents and treasures because he believed in fraternity and wanted to make it better. I will miss my friend, brother and business partner.”
Jason advocated strongly for more research on the fraternal experience and was an early champion of FFE’s Fraternities Matter Campaign and Amplifying Sorority Campaign. “Jason was a great listener with a fun sense of humor. When we served together on the FFE Board, he asked thoughtful questions and was the first to propel FFE’s research initiative which became a part of our strategic plan. His support of research, with time, knowledge and financial backing, is currently reflected in the work being done today. He will be missed,” shared Kitty L. deKieffer, FFE Past President.
Jason was a passionate supporter of Delta Chi, FarmHouse and FFE, to make a gift in his memory, visit any of these organizations’ websites.
Given his loyalty to fraternity and career dedicated to fraternal fundraising, FFE is offering a space for all who are interested to share memories of Jason.
