Thanks to a $6,600 VISIONS grant from Vandalia Blacktop and Sealcoating, students in Butler High School’s industrial technology program will have access to a new, state-of-the-art tool to develop projects and prototypes as they learn manufacturing processes.
“We are excited to incorporate new technology into our industrial technology program,” said Eric Ruxer, industrial arts teacher. “The grant we received will help fund the purchase of a Co2 laser engraving and cutting machine. With this machine, our students will gain hands-on experience in programming and creating personalized projects.”
Ruxer expressed appreciation to Vandalia Blacktop and Sealcoating for underwriting the grant: “The Vandalia-Butler community always goes above and beyond to support our programs. We are grateful to Vandalia Blacktop for funding this specific grant request, which will expand learning opportunities.”
H. David Brusman, the company’s CEO, reflected, “It is extremely satisfying to give back to the school system that has contributed so much to my development.”
As Brusman celebrates his 50th Butler High School class reunion next year, his company will mark its 50th anniversary. “My business has been blessed, and we will continue to support Butler High School,” he said.
In all, the Vandalia-Butler Foundation awarded a record-breaking $31,314 in educational grants in 2025 for innovative classroom initiatives in the Vandalia-Butler City Schools.
For those wishing to make a contribution to the VISIONS Fund, tax-deductible donations can be mailed to VISIONS Fund, c/o The Dayton Foundation, 1401 S. Main St., Suite 100, Dayton, OH 45409-2600. To make an online donation, visit vandalia-butlerfoundation.org/visions.
The Vandalia-Butler Foundation is a component fund of The Dayton Foundation. Leadership for the Vandalia-Butler Foundation rests in our own community, while fiscal oversight of our funds is maintained by The Dayton Foundation, which serves the Dayton/Miami Valley area. This partnership allows for the Vandalia-Butler community to benefit from local leadership and profit from resources pooled with others for investment growth.
(Photo by Mary Stephens. Representing Vandalia Blacktop and Sealcoating: Tony Koehl, president and David Brusman and Aaron Rogers, vice presidents. Representing Butler High School: Eric Ruxer, industrial arts teacher and Buck Williams, principal. Representing the Vandalia-Butler Foundation: Julie Trick and Denise Eder, co-chairs and Greg Toman, treasurer/secretary of VISIONS.)