Where
Arizona Financial Theatre
400 W. Washington St., Phoenix, AZ 85003
When
Ceremony begins 7 p.m. May 14, 2026.
General student check in begins at 5:45 p.m. (5 p.m. check-in for specialty group photos)
The lobby will open at 5 p.m. and the auditorium at 6 p.m. for guests
Who
Any students who have completed a degree or certificate since May 1, 2025, or will have completed a program by August 31, 2026 are eligible to participate in this year’s Commencement.
Cost
There is no fee for commencement this year, however, students must order their cap and gown regalia from our approved vendor. This is a ticketless event and there is no cost for guests.
Caps/gowns
To participate in the commencement ceremony, all students must wear a cap and gown from Rio Salado’s official vendor, Jostens. All graduates at every level – bachelor, associate and certificate recipients – wear the same cap and gown.
🔹 The deadline for ordering delivery of caps and gowns is April 14, 2026. Details below. Individuals that ordered their regalia online will receive it through the mail at the address they supply.
🔹 Last Chance In-Person Event: If you’re local or miss the deadline to order online, you can buy your cap and gown at our one-day event on May 1, from 12-4 p.m. at Rio Salado College, 2323 W. 14th St., Tempe, AZ 85281, in the Conference Center. This will be your final opportunity to get your regalia for the ceremony.
Important Deadlines:
- Apply for commencement: no later than April 4th to be included in the printed program
Please note: Cap and gown orders will not be available for pickup at the ceremony or the Rio Salado office except the Last Chance In-Person event on May 1st.
Additional questions? Email graduation@riosalado.edu.
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. Alumni merchandise will also be on sale.
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.
Questions? Please email: Michelle.Reese@riosalado.edu, Rio Salado College Marketing and Public Relations
Directions to Venue
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: Adjacent parking garage is at 4th Ave and Adams (Adams Street Garage).
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. No balloons allowed.
If you require accommodations due to a disability please contact the Rio Salado College Disability Resources and Services Office.
