Borsig hired as Henderson State interim chancellor

Dr. Jim Borsig will officially become interim chancellor at Henderson State University on July 27 following the Arkansas Legislative Council’s approval of his contract Friday.

“We are fortunate to have attracted a professional educator with considerable experience as both a campus chief executive officer and a system-level administrator,” said Dr. Charles Welch, president of the Arkansas State University System.

Borsig received a one-year employment contract with the understanding that it could be extended to a second year by mutual agreement, Welch said. Borsig will earn an annual salary of $230,000.

“I am proud to be part of Henderson’s 130-year educational mission and look forward to working with Reddies across all generations to build on the rich spirit and traditions of Henderson State University,” Borsig said.

Henderson State’s Board of Trustees and the Arkansas State University System Board of Trustees approved a merger agreement and transition plan in 2019. The merger is pending approval from the Higher Learning Commission and action from the Arkansas General Assembly. Welch said the target for completing the transition is Jan. 1, 2021.

Borsig will report to Welch under the merger agreement.

Borsig most recently served as president of Mississippi University for Women from 2012-2018, and served as both associate commissioner and interim commissioner of higher education in Mississippi.

He holds a Ph.D. in public policy and administration from Mississippi State University, a M.S. in political science, and a B.S. in political science and American studies.

Borsig replaces Elaine Kneebone, who has served as acting president for the past year and will continue to serve as the university’s general counsel.