For the first time in Eagle Pass history, local high school students will participate in an international academic project created and coordinated by Port EPN, connecting students from Eagle Pass with peers at Universidad Panamericana in Mexico City.

Port EPN is a binational trade community initiative that unifies the cities of Eagle Pass, Texas, and Piedras Negras, Coahuila, Mexico. This partnership aims to maximize the border’s potential as a premier hub for cross-border commerce, strengthening security and promoting economic development and job creation in both nations.

Left: Dr. Russo with students from Eagle Pass High School; on right, with students from CC Winn High School.

The initiative, led by Mr. Jaime C. Barrera, Education Coordinator at Port EPN, and Ms. Brenda Maltos-Gonzalez, CEO of Port EPN, is supported locally by Dr. Eduardo Russo, Assistant Professor of International Business at Sul Ross State University. Dr. Russo will mentor four students—two each from Eagle Pass High School and C.C. Winn High School. The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Eagle Pass, led by Director Cynthia Gomez, will also stay involved as part of a broader cross border initiative.

Together, students will develop an economic study exploring the potential of the Eagle Pass–Piedras Negras border region. Their findings will be presented to the President of Singapore during meetings in Mexico City Dec. 1–2, followed by an international presentation in Singapore in January 2026.

“This project is an extraordinary opportunity for our students to apply their talents and leadership skills on an international stage,” said Dr. Russo. “It reflects the growing collaboration between Sul Ross State University, local schools and our partners in Mexico, allowing our students to take their ideas from the border to the world.”

Students participating were selected for their outstanding academic performance, leadership and vision. This first-of-its-kind initiative marks a historic milestone for Eagle Pass education and exemplifies the power of cross-border academic partnerships to inspire the next generation of global leaders.

Dr. Jose Mora, chair of undergraduate programs, said, “Dr. Russo’s work is a continuation of Rio Grande College of Business commitment to the enrichment of high school students in the area, and follows the Start Up Weekend conducted in 2025 for students at Eagle Pass ISD which will be repeated again in 2026”.

For more information, email eduardo.russo@sulross.edu or visit www.sulross.edu/business.