Dr. Laurie Borowicz, President of Kishwaukee College, was recognized as the recipient of the 2024 Gary W. Davis Ethical Leadership Award by the Illinois Community College Trustees Association (ICCTA) at the ICCTA Annual Convention on Friday, June 7, in Lombard.
The Gary W. Davis Ethical Leadership Award honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the pursuit and support of ethical leadership and decision-making in their fields of work and volunteer service. Dr. Borowicz, who has served as Kish’s President since 2016, was nominated for the award by the College’s Senior Leadership Team and the Kish Board of Trustees.
“I am honored to be the recipient of the Gary W. Davis Ethical Leadership Award. Gary exemplified great leadership during his 18-year tenure with ICCTA. Being nominated by my executive team and the Board of Kishwaukee College for this award is quite humbling,” Dr. Borowicz said.
As President, Dr. Borowicz has focused on improving campus culture through transparency, equitable initiatives, and data-driven decision-making, including adopting the College’s Civility Statement, creating the Annual Data Book, and eliminating student fees to improve cost transparency.
“As College leaders, our focus is to make the best decisions for our students. Dr. Borowicz has not wavered from this principle despite many difficult decisions over her years of service,” said Bob Johnson, Kishwaukee College Board Chair. “Dr. Borowicz has provided fair and honest leadership while positioning the College for future success and has shown a steadfast devotion to creating a welcoming environment for the entire Kish community.”
The Kish Board recognized Dr. Borowicz for her award during their Tuesday meeting. During the meeting, Dr. Borowicz stated the College will continue to focus on respectful and ethical leadership and acknowledged the many collaborators who have helped make these initiatives a reality at Kish.
“Leading organizations, especially institutions of higher education, is complex. There are many we serve — students, faculty and staff, boards, business and community leaders, donors, legislators, and taxpayers. I accept this award on behalf of those who work with and beside me, those who have listened and supported me along the way, and my colleagues who do this incredible work every day to make lives better for others,” Dr. Borowicz said.
To learn more about Kishwaukee College’s commitment to ethical leadership, including diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility, visit www.kish.edu/diversity.