News & Resources News

El Paso, TX, April 9, 2026 – Project ARRIBA will celebrate a major milestone with its 51st Graduation Celebration on Wednesday, May 20, at 5:00 PM, at EPCC ASC Building A, located at 9050 Viscount.

The event will feature El Paso County Judge Ricardo A. Samaniego as the keynote speaker.

Judge Samaniego has served as El Paso County Judge since 2019 and is currently in his second term. A lifelong El Pasoan, he holds graduate degrees from the University of Texas at El Paso, New Mexico State University, and the University of Notre Dame. Throughout his tenure, Judge Samaniego has led El Paso County through some of its most challenging moments, including the 2019 mass shooting, the COVID 19 pandemic, and a historic migrant influx.

His leadership has earned numerous honors and recognition across the region. Judge Samaniego continues to prioritize mental health initiatives, veteran services, infrastructure investment, economic development, and community outreach, including his role in championing El Paso’s designation as the Veterans Capital of the United States.

Project ARRIBA’s graduation ceremony will highlight the accomplishments of its graduates while underscoring the organization’s ongoing commitment to workforce development and educational advancement in the El Paso community.