The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) has recently announced a new chapter in its administrative leadership, naming Col. Brendan Gallagher as the new Vice President for Business Affairs, a position responsible for guiding the university's finance and business operations into the future. Gallagher, a former garrison commander at Fort Bliss with a remarkable 24-year tenure in the U.S. Army, is set to take the helm overseeing UTEP's business activities, including those connected to finance and facilities, according to UTEP Newsfeed.
Gallagher's military background is extensive, having achieved the rank of Colonel, and his executive experience includes managing large-scale budgets and overseeing complex contracts, and during his time at Fort Bliss, he was not only managing a yearly budget that soared to the heights of $393 million, he also navigated the intricacies of public works and safety protocols, shaping the environment for a population that extended beyond the reaches of the base's immediate community, instead embracing the greater El Paso area in a web of strategy and service, President Heather Wilson praised Gallagher for his commitment to El Paso, stating, "We are fortunate that he has chosen to stay in Texas and help lead and build this great University", as detailed by UTEP Newsfeed.
Not only is Gallagher's military career noteworthy, but his academic credentials are impressive in their own right. He holds a Ph.D. and an M.A. in Public Affairs from the prestigious Princeton University, and additional degrees in International Economics and Strategic Studies, and International Relations from Johns Hopkins University. On top of his educational achievements, Gallagher has contributed to the literary world with his book, "The Day After: Why America Wins the War but Loses the Peace". Expressing his enthusiasm for this new role, Gallagher told UTEP Newsfeed, "I am beyond excited for the opportunity to continue to support and contribute to our wonderful El Paso community."
Alongside Gallagher's appointment, UTEP promoted Joanne Richardson to Senior Associate Vice President for Business Affairs and Chief Financial Officer, a native El Pasoan, UTEP alumna, she brings a wealth of knowledge in university budgeting, and has occupied the position of Associate Vice President for Business Affairs, guiding the offices of budget and fiscal management among other critical departments, and has also remained engaged in the community, serving as Chair for a notable budget committee and involved in downtown El Paso's financial management. Richardson’s multifaceted experience comes with the promise of a bolstered leadership in the university’s fiscal endeavors, "Joanne is a pro at university budgeting and finance," President Heather Wilson commented on her promotion, noting that "Together, Dr. Gallagher and Joanne Richardson will make a great leadership team as we improve the campus and enhance our impact on the community we serve", as obtained by UTEP Newsfeed.
