Three Sul Ross State University International alumni will host a literary event in a celebration of storytelling, entrepreneurship and community engagement.

On Friday, May 8, at 6 p.m., Robin Alvarez, a Sul Ross alumna and current faculty member in the Department of Languages and Literature, will host a book signing at Beetle Books, located at 364 E. Main St., Suite C, in Eagle Pass. The bookstore is owned and operated by fellow Sul Ross alumni Victor Ortiz and Thery Cardenas.

Alvarez will be signing copies of her novels When Oceans Rise, a Filipino-inspired retelling of The Little Mermaid, and Paramour, a paranormal romance rooted in Irish mythology. Her work has been featured at notable literary events, including the 20th Anniversary of Twilight, the Jane Austen Ball, RomantasyCon, and Teen Bookfest by the Bay.

“When Oceans Rise was written during my time as a graduate student at Sul Ross,” said Alvarez. “I’m so grateful that Sul Ross alumni can come together to help lift each other up.”

Beetle Books, a locally owned independent bookstore, recently received the Best New Small Business Award, reflecting its growing impact within the Eagle Pass community. Owners Ortiz and Cardenas, who met as English majors during their time at Sul Ross, have long shared a passion for literature.

“Opening a bookstore had always been our shared dream,” said Cardenas. “Now, that dream has come true.”

This event highlights the continued success and collaboration of Sul Ross alumni, as well as the university’s role in fostering creativity, connection and community engagement across the Middle Rio Grande region.

The public is invited to attend this special evening celebrating local authors, alumni achievement, and independent business.