Get your caps and gowns ready and start humming “Pomp and Circumstance” because Rio Salado’s 2026 Commencement Ceremony is less than a week away! This year’s graduation ceremony will be held on Thursday, May 14, at 7 p.m. at Arizona Financial Theatre (400 W. Washington St.) in downtown Phoenix. Are you planning to walk the stage on Thursday? Or are you a family member who's eager to show up and support your graduate? Here’s what you need to know about attending commencement.
Check-In Time
General student check in for everyone who registered begins at 5:45 p.m. The lobby will open at 5 p.m. and the auditorium at 6 p.m. for guests. This is a ticketless event and there is no cost for guests.
Please respect your fellow students during the ceremony by staying in the auditorium until the completion of the ceremony.
General Tips For Graduating Students
Keep these in mind so you’ll have a fun, friction-free commencement experience:
- Check local traffic news
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Arrive on time wearing your cap and gown
- Leave personal belongings with guests
- Silence electronic devices
- Advise guests to enter the main doors after 5 p.m.
- Advise guests to meet you in front of the theatre after the ceremony
Directions and Parking
Arizona Financial Theatre is located on the Northwest corner of 4th Avenue and Washington Street. From West: I-10 East to 7th Avenue south, take to Adams Street, turn left (East) to Fourth Avenue. From East: I-10 West to 7th Avenue south, take to Adams Street, turn left (East) to Fourth Avenue.
Parking is available for a fee at 305 W. Washington St. There is a parking garage across from the venue at 4th Ave and Adams (Adams Street Garage). There is also metered parking on nearby streets. Visit valleymetro.org about light rail options. There are other events scheduled that may pose traffic and parking delays. Please plan accordingly.
Rio Salado Commencement Speakers
This year's event features two student speakers: Ira Steele and Austin England.
Steele completed his associate degree in Addictions and Substance Use Disorders.
“This degree represents far more than academic achievement—it represents transformation,” he said. “If my story demonstrates anything, it is that transformation is possible— and sometimes all it takes to change a life is the courage to take the first step.”
England, a dual enrollment student from Deer Valley High School, is finishing an associate of arts degree with Rio Salado.
“This required me to balance essentially two worlds at once,” England said. “The experience taught me discipline, perseverance, and time management in ways a traditional high school experience could not.”
Congratulations to Steele, England, and all of this year’s graduates.
Caps, Gowns And Other Regalia
All participating graduates must wear the Rio Salado cap and gown. Cap and gown orders will not be available for pickup at the ceremony.
Honor cords
Students eligible for academic honors will receive their honor cords when checking in on the day of commencement.
Flowers and merchandise
Rio Salado's PTK chapter is sponsoring a flower and lei booth at the event. Items can be preordered online or purchased onsite.
Venue Security, Bag Check and Policies
Bags up to 12” x 6” x 12” are allowed in the venue. All bags will be searched prior to entry. Bags that are not clear will be subject to additional search.
No backpacks allowed. We request that graduates give any personal items to guests prior to check-in.
Rio Gear For Sale This Year!
Commemorate your achievement with exclusive Rio alumni gear— available for purchase at commencement. Perfect as a keepsake or a gift to celebrate your journey.
Concession Options
Soft drinks, water and snacks will be sold 5-7 p.m.
Commencement Photography and Media Notice
The 2026 Rio Salado College Commencement Ceremony is a public event where photos and videos will be taken for event marketing and promotional purposes. Everyone who attends consents to their likeness being used by the college for promotional and marketing purposes.
Accommodations
If you require accommodations due to a disability please contact the Rio Salado College Disability Resources and Services Office.
Watch Live
Families around the globe can watch the ceremony live. Streaming will begin at 7 p.m. on Rio Salado’s Events YouTube Channel.
Class of 2026 Snapshot*
Credentials Awarded: 5,039
880 Associate Degrees
73 Academic Certificates
34 Bachelor’s Degrees
3,957 Certificates of Completion
13 Traditional Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Certifications
82 Post-Baccalaureate Teacher In-Residence
*To be confirmed June 30, 2026
Article by Austin Brietta