Another day in paradise: Celebrating Kathy Borton’s stellar 52 year-career

Friday really was a day in paradise … a “peachy” day, if you will.

Those phrases have become synonymous with Heidelberg’s longest-tenured employee, Kathy Borton ’13, who is preparing to hang up her recruiting shoes after an extraordinary 52 years at Heidelberg.

Colleagues, both current and former, family and friends gathered Friday to bid Kathy farewell. There were plenty of hugs, a few tears, and a special announcement that touched her heart.

Current supervisor Morgan Harrigan, Executive Director of Admissions and Enrollment, thanked Kathy for the “incredible service, energy, leadership and care” she has given to generations of future Student Princes whom she recruited to Heidelberg.

“You will be more than missed,” Morgan said. “You’re an amazing co-worker … always one step ahead. There’s a reason you’re known as ‘the Heidelberg Mom.’”

Morgan also recognized Kathy’s old-school approach to recruiting — personal touches, countless phone calls and follow-ups, attention to detail, and a commitment to building and nurturing relationships with prospective students and their families. Those personal connections, Morgan noted, have produced invaluable results — and continue to do so.

A legacy that endures

At the reception, Ashley Helmstetter, Vice President for Advancement, Marketing, Alumni, and Community Relations, had some big news to share with Kathy.

When word got out that Kathy would retire at the end of August, two donors stepped forward to honor her ’Berg legacy by creating the Kathy Borton Scholarship, Ashley announced.

Beginning this fall and continuing for the next 10 years, one student from Seneca County — Kathy’s beloved recruiting territory — will receive a $1,000 scholarship to attend Heidelberg.

“That’s amazing,” Kathy said upon hearing the news.

As Kathy prepares to say goodbye to her office in the basement of University Hall, her Heidelberg family wishes her nothing but days in paradise in retirement.

“This is my Heidelberg family I’m leaving,” she said through tears.

And while Kathy may be retiring from recruiting, her legacy of care, connection and commitment to Heidelberg — and to the students and families she has served — will continue for years to come.

Read more about Kathy’s ’Berg career here.