High Country Times

Dr. Francis Thomas Borkowski, who served as the chancellor of Appalachian State University from 1993 to 2003, passed away on January 19 at the age of 88. His tenure at App State was marked by significant growth and recognition.

"Frank led our university for 10 years, and during this time, he strengthened the university’s academic reputation, expanding our global education programs, supporting programs designed for first-year students’ success, and helping extend the reach of the university’s arts programs," said App State Interim Chancellor Heather Norris in a statement. "We honor Frank and the incredible contributions he made to the university in the decade he was chancellor and the decades afterward."

Under Borkowski's leadership, Appalachian State University celebrated its centennial anniversary and saw an increase in enrollment from 12,200 to over 14,300 students. In 2001, Time magazine recognized it as a College of the Year. The institution was also acknowledged by the American Council on Education as a model for international studies due to Borkowski's emphasis on global education.

Borkowski was passionate about the arts and contributed significantly to its development at App State. He supported initiatives like expanding public art programs and establishing sculpture exhibitions on campus. Notably, sculptures of Daniel Boone and Yosef were added during his time as chancellor.

Born to Polish immigrants, Borkowski was among his family's first high school graduates. He earned degrees in music education from Oberlin College and West Virginia University and a master's degree in clarinet performance from Indiana University Bloomington. Before his role at App State, he held leadership positions at several academic institutions.

He is survived by his wife Kay; children Stanley Borkowski, Anne-Marie Scott, Christian Borkowski; and grandchildren Molly Scott, Nora Scott, Ian Borkowski, and Ryan Borkowski.