Henderson relaunches chancellor search

Henderson State University is relaunching its chancellor search because of the pending resignation of Interim Chancellor Dr. Jim Borsig due to health reasons. Dr. Chuck Welch, president of the Arkansas State University System, will assume an increased role working with Dr. Borsig and the university vice chancellors during this transitional period.

Message from Dr. Jim Borsig:

I recently notified Dr. Welch that I would be exercising the 30-day termination clause in my contract and requested the opportunity to work remotely, and in a reduced capacity, for as long as Dr. Welch believes my services are needed.

I hoped to be able to serve until the permanent chancellor was chosen, but my next steps require my schedule to be clear and for me to be near my health care facilities and physicians.

It's been a privilege to serve Henderson State University and I'm proud to have been a small part of the work you have done over the past year. While I know that more hard work must be done, I'm confident in the future of Henderson. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this special place.

Message from Dr. Chuck Welch:

While this was certainly not news I had hoped to hear, I fully support Dr. Borsig’s decision. His health and well-being are my top priority, and I wish him and Kate nothing but the best. Dr. Borsig has provided exceptional service to Henderson, and I am grateful for his steady leadership and sound management.

Considering the ongoing pandemic, the continuing efforts to restore Henderson to fiscal and operational stability, and the fact that the institution has experienced multiple leadership transitions in a short timeframe, I believe it is critical that we immediately launch a search for a permanent chancellor.

We will begin the search process immediately and we will seek to move as expeditiously as possible while also taking the time necessary to ensure we find the right person to lead our university.

Again, I want to thank Dr. Borsig for his good work during this past year and wish him all the best. I think I can speak for all Reddies when I say we will be keeping the Borsig family in our constant thoughts.