UTSA Begins Search for New Senior VP for Governmental Relations

UTSA campus with students and government discussions

San Antonio, January 8, 2026

The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) has initiated a search for a Senior Vice President for Governmental Relations following Carlos Martinez’s retirement. This key role will manage the university’s interactions with governmental entities to advocate for UTSA’s legislative and policy interests, ensuring necessary support for both the university and the San Antonio community. The search committee aims to find a suitable successor to continue fostering these vital connections.

San Antonio, Texas – The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) has announced the initiation of a search for the Senior Vice President for Governmental Relations following the retirement of Carlos Martinez, who has held the position since 2017. This critical role involves managing UTSA’s interactions with governmental entities at local, state, and federal levels to ensure the university’s legislative and policy interests are effectively advocated and represented.

As the San Antonio community continues to thrive on the innovation and hard work of local entrepreneurs, it becomes increasingly important for institutions like UTSA to bolster their governmental engagement strategies. By reducing bureaucratic hurdles and fostering closer ties with legislative bodies, opportunities arise for enhanced support and resources that benefit not just the university but the broader community and economy.

With Carlos Martinez’s departure, the search for a new Senior Vice President for Governmental Relations reflects UTSA’s commitment to maintaining strong connections with governmental agencies, which is vital for the university’s future growth and success.

Key Responsibilities of the Role

The Senior Vice President for Governmental Relations will oversee comprehensive governmental relations intelligence and develop strategic advocacy initiatives. This position acts as the primary liaison between UTSA and governmental entities, ensuring that the university’s interests are championed across the legislative landscape. By engaging with lawmakers and influencing policy surrounding educational funding and priorities, this role is pivotal for advancing UTSA’s mission.

Search Committee Formation

To ensure a thorough and effective search for the next leader, UTSA has formed a dedicated search committee tasked with identifying a successor to Carlos Martinez. This committee will play a significant role in evaluating candidates who possess the necessary skills and experience to drive the university’s governmental engagement efforts forward.

About Carlos Martinez

Carlos Martinez has been a key figure in UTSA’s governmental relations since his appointment in 2017. His leadership has facilitated vital communications with local, state, and federal officials regarding the university’s legislative funding and policy priorities. Under his guidance, UTSA has strengthened its presence in governmental discussions, positioning itself as a vital player in Texas higher education.

The Importance of Governmental Relations

The role of Senior Vice President for Governmental Relations is essential in shaping public policy that impacts higher education and securing legislative support for institutions like UTSA. By advocating for educational resources and engaging proactively with policymakers, this position helps align the university’s goals with governmental initiatives, ultimately benefiting students and the community alike.

Conclusion

As UTSA embarks on this search for a new Senior Vice President for Governmental Relations, it underscores the continued need for strategic governmental partnerships in education. The future of San Antonio’s economy and educational landscape depends on proactive leadership that champions the needs of both the university and the community. Engaging in the local business environment and supporting institutions like UTSA will foster innovation and economic growth. Readers are encouraged to stay informed and involved in San Antonio’s vibrant economic future.

FAQ

What is the position UTSA is searching for?
UTSA is searching for a new Senior Vice President for Governmental Relations, following the retirement of Carlos Martinez.
What are the responsibilities of this position?
The Senior Vice President for Governmental Relations is responsible for overseeing all governmental relations intelligence, developing and executing comprehensive governmental relations and advocacy strategies, and serving as the primary liaison between UTSA and government entities at various levels.
When was the search announced?
The search was announced by President Taylor Eighmy on January 6, 2026.
Who is Carlos Martinez?
Carlos Martinez has been serving as UTSA’s Senior Vice President for Governmental Relations since 2017. He has been instrumental in communicating with local, state, and federal elected officials regarding UTSA’s legislative funding and policy priorities.
Why is this position important?
The Senior Vice President for Governmental Relations plays a critical role in shaping public policy and securing legislative support for UTSA, ensuring the university’s objectives are advanced at all levels of government.

Feature Details
Position Title Senior Vice President for Governmental Relations
Responsibilities Overseeing governmental relations intelligence, developing and executing advocacy strategies, serving as the primary liaison between UTSA and government entities at various levels.
Search Committee Formation UTSA has established a search committee to identify a successor for Carlos Martinez, who is retiring from the role.
Announcement Date The search was announced by President Taylor Eighmy on January 6, 2026.
Carlos Martinez’s Role Carlos Martinez has been serving as UTSA’s Senior Vice President for Governmental Relations since 2017, managing communications with local, state, and federal elected officials regarding UTSA’s legislative funding and policy priorities.
Importance of the Position The Senior Vice President for Governmental Relations plays a critical role in shaping public policy and securing legislative support for UTSA, ensuring the university’s objectives are advanced at all levels of government.

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