Faces of Xavier: Brendan Gallagher '88, P '17 '18

This Saturday evening, the man of honor at Manhattan’s historic Roosevelt Hotel will be a familiar face to many: Brendan Gallagher ’88, P ’17 ’18.

The product of a proud Xavier family (his brothers John ’83 and Dave ’85 and sons Aidan ’17 and Brendan ’18 are fellow Sons of Xavier), Gallagher will be honored for his service to the Emerald Association of Long Island at its 176th Annual Emerald Ball. Founded in 1839, the Emerald Association is one of the nation’s oldest Irish-American societies; funds raised at Saturday’s event will support children in need throughout Brooklyn and Rockville Centre.

“It’s the oldest fundraising event of its kind in the United States,” said Gallagher, a corporate bond broker who resides with his wife, Debbie, and four children in Breezy Point.

His formation as a man for others—which also drives his commitment to such organizations as the Wounded Warrior Project, the Adaptive Sports Foundation, and the Knights of Columbus—started on 16th Street. “It all comes from high school,” said Gallagher, who now sees the same concern for others developing in his sons.

He sees a passion for Xavier developing, too, and it’s no wonder. Gallagher played football and rugby during his time as a student, and he still maintains close relationships with many of his classmates and teachers. Fr. Vin Biagi, S.J., Xavier’s former rugby chaplain, performed the marriage ceremonies for each of his siblings, baptized his children, and remains a great family friend, as do many of his classmates.

“I tell people that there’s not a better group of alumni anywhere. The people that you meet at Xavier become your longtime best friends. I could pick up the phone and talk to 10 to 15 Xavier guys right now,” Gallagher said. “I’m always promoting Xavier. I live and breathe this school.”