K-State strengthens military partnerships with new executive director of Military and Veterans Affairs
Kansas State University has named Col. Travis Habhab as executive director of Military and Veterans Affairs, a leadership role designed to strengthen the university's partnerships with military and veteran communities and advance K-State's mission as a next-generation land-grant institution.
A decorated Army leader with more than 27 years of service, Habhab brings extensive leadership experience and deep K-State roots — including a family legacy of seven K-State alumni and two daughters currently enrolled.
"This opportunity represents the convergence of the two things I care about most in life — besides my family — Kansas State University and the United States Military," Habhab said. "I'm honored to contribute to K-State's continued success and help solidify our position as a premier military education partner."
Currently serving as chief of staff for the 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley, Habhab advises a team of more than 59,000 personnel, overseeing daily operations, interagency coordination and modernization initiatives. His career includes service as executive officer to the vice chief of staff of the Army at the Pentagon, where he directed Army-wide initiatives and worked with Congress to align policy and funding priorities. He has commanded at multiple levels, including as brigade commander of the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, and has deployed to Afghanistan, Iraq, Korea and Europe.
Beyond his military experience, Habhab is a former chair and professor of military science at the University of Texas at Austin, where his ROTC program was named the nation's top medium-sized program, and an assistant professor at West Point, where he taught finance and economics. He holds degrees from the U.S. Army War College, Texas A&M University and Kansas State University.
In his new role, Habhab will serve as K-State's primary liaison to military and veteran organizations at the local, state and national levels. He will work closely with Marshall Stewart, executive vice president for external engagement and chief of staff, to expand partnerships, formalize agreements and pursue funding opportunities.
"Col. Habhab brings an exceptional combination of strategic vision, operational excellence and established relationships with senior military leaders," Stewart said. "His experience positions him perfectly to connect K-State to key stakeholders and foster sustainable partnerships."
Habhab has earned numerous honors throughout his career, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, multiple Legions of Merit, Bronze Stars and Air Medals with Valor.
"My career has been defined by a relentless ability to unite stakeholders, drive transformation and achieve measurable results," Habhab said. "I'm excited to bring this blend of experience, passion and relationships to K-State, where I can contribute to the university's strategic growth and strengthen our partnerships with the military community."
Habhab will begin his appointment on Jan. 20, 2026, reinforcing K-State's long-standing connection to the armed forces — a legacy dating back to 1863 with one of the nation's oldest ROTC programs.