05/15/2026
As we prepare to celebrate our graduates at Commencement this weekend, we are proud to recognize Jesus Darian Gallardo as the The University of Texas at El Paso School of Pharmacy Banner Bearer for the Class of 2026.
Jesus Gallardo, a candidate for the Doctor of Pharmacy degree, recalls a strong desire to take his devotion to math and science to the next level and marry it with his passion for education. His love for education began through his work as a percussion music educator and “drum instructor,” where he developed a passion for teaching others, meeting students where they were in their journey, and finding fulfillment in enriching their lives. The field of pharmacy brought together the best of both these worlds and provided the opportunity to make a meaningful impact through patient care.
“I was able to truly understand the need for quality healthcare educators here in our border city of El Paso. It was not until I asked necessary medication questions, and it was the manner in which patients still seemed puzzled regarding their own care, that it dawned on me how necessary patient-tailored education is. It really motivates me that I have the privilege of serving as a healthcare provider to fill in any educational gaps regarding medications, as it provides me with a great sense of fulfillment and joy to see patients have their ‘lightbulb’ and big ‘aha!’ moments.”
Throughout his pharmacy studies, Jesus balanced the demands of doctoral coursework while actively participating in student organizations, promoting campus involvement, and conducting research. His academic excellence enabled him to serve as President of the Rho Chi – Epsilon Phi Chapter pharmacy academic honor society, where he helped create new opportunities to promote academic success across all pharmacy school cohorts.
Additionally, research conducted during the third and fourth years of the curriculum opened his eyes to the value of improving patient outcomes through medication improvement initiatives at a local academic medical center on the United States–Mexico border.
Following graduation, Jesus will begin the next phase of his pharmacy career as a PGY1 Resident at the El Paso VA Healthcare System specializing in Ambulatory Care. He aspires to provide quality, compassionate care in Oncology and Cardiology while continuing to give back to the El Paso community.
Congratulations, Jesus, on this well-deserved recognition and on all that lies ahead!
