El Paso County adopts resolution honoring author Benjamin Alire Sáenz

El Paso County’s commissioners on Monday adopted a resolution recognizing the life and work of Benjamin Alire Sáenz, the acclaimed novelist, poet and educator who died July 28, 2026. Judge Samaniego read the resolution into the record and the court voted to adopt it.

Michael Hernandez, who introduced several speakers, called Sáenz “my beloved, former professor” and said Sáenz’s teaching and writing helped El Paso readers and students connect to the borderland. “Understanding Ben’s rich contribution to literature and the impact he’s had on readers around the world has helped ease some of the heartache of losing Ben,” Hernandez said. State Sen. Rodriguez and multiple family members also spoke, recalling Sáenz’s awards, his work at UTEP and plans for a public celebration. The court noted Sáenz authored nearly 30 books, received the PEN/Faulkner Award and shaped bilingual creative writing at UTEP.

The court’s action was procedural: Judge Samaniego moved to approve the resolution and Commissioner Stout seconded; the motion carried. County staff said a public celebration of life will be held Sunday at Lincoln Park and the star on the mountain will be lighted in Sáenz’s honor. The court presented the signed resolution and invited family members and invited guests to join a photo.