In late 2022, Calvin Butler made history when he was appointed as the first Black president and CEO of Exelon, the nation’s largest utility company by customer count. Exelon serves over 10.5 million electric and gas customers across six states and Washington, D.C. Butler’s appointment marked a significant milestone in the company’s leadership and the utility industry at large.
Leading Exelon into the Future
Calvin Butler’s journey to becoming Exelon’s president and CEO was paved by years of leadership experience within the company. Before his promotion, he served as president and chief operating officer, overseeing Exelon’s six regional energy companies. These include major utilities like Atlantic City Electric, BGE, ComEd, Delmarva Power, PECO, and Pepco.
Butler’s leadership is not just confined to operational responsibilities. He also played an integral role as the CEO of BGE from 2014 to 2019. His prior roles at Exelon included serving as senior vice president of Corporate Affairs at BGE and vice president of Governmental and Legislative Affairs at ComEd. His diverse career within Exelon has made him a key figure in shaping the company’s success.
A Strong Career Foundation Before Exelon
Butler’s career before joining Exelon in 2008 was equally impressive. He worked in senior leadership roles at R.R. Donnelley, a major print, digital, and supply chain solutions company. Additionally, Butler spent early years at Central Illinois Light Company (CILCORP, Inc.), where he focused on government affairs, legal, and strategy.
His deep expertise in both energy and corporate governance made him well-prepared for the CEO role at Exelon. Butler’s knowledge and commitment to the energy sector have set him apart as a leader in the field.
Industry and Civic Engagement
Beyond his professional achievements, Butler is deeply involved in civic and industry organizations. He serves as vice chair of the Edison Electric Institute’s Board of Directors and as chairman of the Board of the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation. Additionally, Butler contributes to several other boards, including those of Battelle, Emerson Electric, and the Institute of International Education.
His leadership extends to national service, as he’s part of influential groups like the Civic Committee of the Commercial Club of Chicago and the James Madison Council of the Library of Congress. Butler’s commitment to both his industry and the community makes him a well-respected figure.
Recognized for Leadership and Impact
Throughout his career, Butler has received numerous accolades recognizing his leadership and community contributions. In 2024, Savoy magazine named him one of the “Most Influential Executives” in America. His leadership has also earned him multiple listings as one of Maryland’s “Most Admired CEOs” by the Daily Record.
Moreover, Butler’s achievements have been recognized by organizations such as Black Enterprise and the Boy Scouts of America. In 2022, he was honored with the Distinguished Citizen Award from the Boy Scouts, and the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland awarded him the “Titan Award.”
Education and Personal Background
Butler’s educational background further highlights his expertise and drive. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois, and a Juris Doctor degree from Washington University School of Law in St. Louis, Missouri.
As an active member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Butler continues to lead by example and inspire the next generation of leaders in business, energy, and beyond.
A Legacy of Leadership and Impact
Calvin Butler’s appointment as Exelon’s first Black president and CEO was a historic moment in both the company’s history and the broader utility sector. His leadership continues to drive Exelon’s success as it serves millions of customers and contributes to the development of energy solutions across the United States.
