EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — Former Fort Bliss Garrison commander Brendan Gallagher has been named UTEP’s new vice president for business affairs, the university said.
Gallagher, who was a colonel in the Army, served as Garrison commander at Fort Bliss from July 2023 to August 2025. The Garrison commander is the Army equivalent of a city manager.
Gallagher will oversee UTEP’s business, finance and facilities operations. He will start his new duties on Sept. 17.
He served for 24 years in the Army and “brings executive experience in budget management, contract oversight and facility strategy,” UTEP said.
“Col. Gallagher led and managed one of the largest installations in the U.S. Army right here in El Paso,” UTEP President Heather Wilson said. “We are fortunate that he has chosen to stay in Texas and help lead and build this great University.”
An Army ranger and recipient of three Bronze Stars, Gallagher served in Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Korea and the Pentagon. As Garrison commander of Fort Bliss, the second largest U.S. Army installation, Gallagher was responsible for planning and execution of the Garrison’s $393 million annual budget.
Gallagher’s responsibilities also included oversight of public works, facilities, environmental health, traffic, transportation and safety affecting over 170,000 soldiers, civilians and veterans across Fort Bliss and the greater El Paso area.
He led collaborations with El Paso community leaders, businesses, politicians, nonprofits, public utility companies and other entities to bring multi-million-dollar initiatives to life.
Gallagher holds both a Ph.D. and a master’s degree in public affairs from Princeton University, as well as an M.A. in international economics and strategic studies and a B.A. in international relations, both from Johns Hopkins University. He is the author of “The Day After: Why America Wins the War but Loses the Peace” (Cornell Press, 2019).
“I am beyond excited for the opportunity to continue to support and contribute to our wonderful El Paso community,” Gallagher said. “UTEP plays a truly vital role in El Paso in so many ways, and it is an incredible privilege to join this outstanding team with a crucial mission.”
Gallagher and his wife Elizabeth live in El Paso with their four children.
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