Joanne Race Borfitz of Norwich, N.Y., will join Colgate University as associate vice president of community relations and auxiliary services starting April 7.
Borfitz fills a new position created to manage Colgate's relationship with and investments in local and regional communities. She will also oversee the primary auxiliary operations of the university.
"Joanne is a proven collaborator with great appreciation for what makes Hamilton and central New York so special," said David Hale, vice president for finance and administration at Colgate. "She will hit the ground running as she helps us all ensure that Colgate continues to play a meaningful and appropriate role in the community."
Borfitz has strong community ties and a deep sense of appreciation for central New York. Since 2001, she has served as the executive director of the Central New York Area Health Education Center (CNYAHEC) in Cortland, a health workforce development organization serving 14 area counties.
Before joining CNYAHEC, Borfitz held a number of senior-level positions during her seven-year tenure at Chenango Memorial Hospital. She also has worked at Tompkins Cortland Community College and the Chenango County Chamber of Commerce.
Borfitz plays an active role in community organizations as well, serving as the advisory board chairperson for Catholic Charities of Chenango County and as a former board and committee member of the United Way of Chenango County.
She is eager to join the Colgate community: "I'm looking forward to building on Colgate's vibrant relationships with the region," Borfitz said.
In addition to community relations responsibilities, Borfitz will manage Colgate's major auxiliary operations such as the university bookstore, the department of document and mail services, and the Colgate camp in the Adirondacks.
Borfitz holds a BA in speech communications and business from Ithaca College.