Joseph Borgen Endowment

This scholarship was established in honor of Dr. Joseph (Joe) A. Borgen, who passed away January 21, 2015, with his devoted wife, Deborah Ivis Borgen, by his side.

Joe was born December 14, 1940, the son of Norris and Gertrude (Felde) Borgen in Viroqua, Wisconsin. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin, Stout with a B.S. and M.S., completing additional graduate studies at the University of Michigan and receiving his Ph.D. from the University of Illinois Champaign.

Joe served as President and CEO of Des Moines Area Community College for 20 years from 1981 to 2001. He led a significant expansion of the College while working closely with business leaders in economic development. Joe was often described as a visionary. Prior to his tenure at DMACC, he served as President and CEO of Danville Community College.

In his free time, he enjoyed traveling, fishing, hiking, biking, reading and spending time with family and friends.