Sun City Portfolio Day Connects El Paso Art Students With 28 Universities

El Paso Community College hosted the 8th Annual Sun City Portfolio Day on Friday, October 23, 2026, giving nearly 500 El Paso-area art students the opportunity to present their work to representatives from 28 colleges and universities.

The event took place at the Socorro Independent School District Student Activities Complex Fine Arts Center and included school districts from across El Paso County. Participating colleges and universities came from locations including California, New York, Cleveland and Glasgow, Scotland.

Sun City Portfolio Day was open to public-school sophomores, juniors and seniors, as well as homeschooled, private-school and charter-school students seeking college admission. Students met with college representatives, received feedback on their artwork and had the opportunity to learn more about their education options. Participating colleges and universities could also offer scholarships onsite.

The event was created to promote artistic talent in the region and connect students with higher-education opportunities without requiring them to travel outside El Paso. Sarelah Aguilar, an EPCC art professor and Sun City Portfolio Day co-director, said the event was free and brought together students and representatives in one location.

Students described the event as a chance to improve their work and explore pathways into higher education. Chapin High School art student Elena Dominguez said she attended to receive feedback and view other students’ artwork. Bowie High School art student Valentina Vazquez said the event helped her see that she could pursue opportunities connected to creating art.

The event also highlighted the role of art in the region’s community and culture. Texas Tech College Art Recruiter Tonja Hagy-Valdine said the event showcased El Paso’s diverse and colorful art culture.

More information about EPCC art and Sun City Portfolio Day is available at the EPCC Sun City Portfolio Day webpage.