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Follett award
Brian Gutierrez (center) was honored by the team at Follett.

Brian Gutierrez, vice chancellor for finance and administration, was awarded this year’s Follett Chairman Award, which recognizes excellence in leadership.

“As an invaluable member of Higher Education’s Customer Advisory Board, Brian is an innovator and leader who has effectively promoted advocacy and continuity at TCU and within higher education,” Todd Litzsinger, Follett chief executive officer and chairman of the board, said. “Congratulations to Brian as we look forward to continued successes and accomplishments in the industry.”

Gutierrez was chosen for the award for his leadership qualities and ability to connect people from his vast network to foster teamwork and results nationwide. The board consists of a group of leaders from colleges across the country to provide insight and discuss challenges and possible solutions facing their institutions. In addition, members assist in shaping Follett offerings for the future, which impacts the student experience.

“Brian’s service as an advisory board member with Follett raises the profile of Texas Christian University with our peers and has a positive impact on our students. We value his leadership immensely, and we are proud and delighted for him to be rewarded for his service and influence,” said Chancellor Victor J. Boschini, Jr.

In addition to overseeing the TCU Campus Store and its retail operations, since joining TCU in 2005, Gutierrez’s efforts and strong fiscal stewardship have contributed to TCU’s recognition as a forward-looking university able to grow and sustain its vision. Gutierrez has led the development of more than 30 new building and renovation projects at TCU, which expanded the campus and increased its footprint to 302 acres. This growth in physical space, and subsequent infrastructure development, has enabled the university to support strategic increases in enrollment and residence life. His leadership has played a critical role in TCU’s pandemic response, including facilities management and planning as well as providing much needed financial assistance for students and families.

“I am grateful to Brian for his 16 years of leadership and his fiscally responsible approach to the growth and management of TCU’s operating budget,” Chancellor Boschini said in a letter announcing the forthcoming retirement of Gutierrez in January. “We have been incredibly fortunate to have had his expertise during his long and distinguished career.”

Follett manages all formats of affordability programs at 1,100+ campuses across North America with the goal of bringing lower costs and better access to learning materials. Follett offers innovative collegiate retail experiences for the campuses they serve, making sure students, faculty and fans have what they need to be prepared. They are a trusted partner to institutions like TCU in fostering higher student success rates and influences positive outcomes.