Nordic Fest Honors Lorraine Borowski as 2026 Grand Marshal

When your school board votes, Decorah News is there to report. Chip in to keep your voice in the room. DECORAH — Lorraine Borowski has been named the 2026 Nordic Fest Grand Marshal in recognition of her decades of service and leadership in the Decorah community. The Nordic Fest Grand Marshal is an individual who has provided outstanding service to the community. Since graduating from Luther College in 1970, Borowski has called Decorah home. Over more than five decades, she has worked in public service and volunteered extensively to support community growth. Borowski spent 27 years at the Decorah Public Library, including 14 as library director, where she helped lead the library through expansion and strengthened its role as a community gathering place. She later served two terms as mayor of Decorah from 2018 to 2026. "It was a good fit for me," Borowski said. "I'd been attending City Council meetings for years as library director, and I really enjoyed being involved." As mayor, Borowski guided Decorah through a period that included the COVID-19 pandemic, major development projects, leadership transitions and continued growth. She said her favorite part of the role was the personal connection with residents. "I loved the connections," she said. "People were so kind. Whether it was someone stopping to visit on the street or a child excited to recognize 'the mayor,' those conversations made the job special." Her community involvement also includes leadership roles with the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce, Decorah Rotary and other local organizations. She has long supported partnerships between government, schools, businesses, tourism and civic groups. "Those partnerships are what make Decorah successful," she said. "This community has so much to offer, whether you're raising a family or enjoying a new season of life." Now retired from public office, Borowski said she is enjoying a different season of life while staying connected to the community. Her favorite places in Decorah include natural areas, especially those near water such as Dunning's Spring and the campground. She also enjoys live music and looks forward to Nordic Fest each year for its food, music and community atmosphere.