If you have successfully earned the required credits to participate in Rio Salado College’s Spring 2025 Commencement. The ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, May 8th, 2025, and we are thrilled to celebrate your achievements. Below are key details to help you prepare for this special occasion:

Commencement Application:

All graduating students who wish to attend the ceremony must submit an application. Click here to access the application.

• To have your name included in the program, please submit your application by February 28th, 2025.

• Applications will still be accepted up to one week before the ceremony; however, submissions after February 28th will not be included in the printed program.

Family and Guests:

Family and friends are welcome to attend. No tickets or entry passes are required for admission.

Cap and Gown Information:

Details about purchasing and distributing caps and gowns are being finalized. Updates will be shared as soon as they are available.

Important Reminder:

The application to attend commencement is separate from the process of completing your degree or certificate. Completing your program requires a different application and process.

Location and Time:

• When: Thursday, May 8th, 2025

• Where: Arizona Financial Theatre

400 W. Washington St., Phoenix, AZ 85003

Event Schedule:

• Graduate Arrival: 5:45 PM (6:00 PM latest)

• Lobby Opens: 5:30 PM

• Auditorium Opens: 6:15 PM

• Commencement Starts: 7:00 PM

Live Stream: The ceremony will be streamed on YouTube. Link to live stream.

Concessions: Concession stands will be open. Cashless payments are encouraged, but cash is also accepted.

Graduate Check-In and Group Photos:

Graduate Check-In:

• Location: 5th Ave (look for signage indicating the correct door).

• Reminder: Do not bring items that do not fit in your pocket, as you will not have access to them once the ceremony begins or ends.

Group Photos:

• If you are scheduled for group or school photos, please arrive by 5:25 PM.

• Check in at the stair area across from the concession stands.

Parking Information:

• Parking Garage: 27 S 4th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003

• Payment: Ticket machines accept both cash and card.

• Parking Map: [Map.png]

Venue Bag Policy:

The following bag policy is in effect:

• Bags up to 12” x 6” x 12” are allowed and will be searched. Non-clear bags are subject to additional searches.

• Bags exceeding size requirements must be left in your car or stored in a locker ($10 fee per locker).

Items NOT Allowed: 

• Bags larger than 12” x 6” x 12”

• Weapons, illegal substances, alcohol, or outside food and beverages

• Professional cameras or recording equipment (personal cameras are allowed)

• Skateboards, scooters, bicycles, or hoverboards

• Fireworks, laser pointers, or noise-making devices

• Drones and unauthorized animals

• Any item deemed dangerous

Payment Policy:

This is a cashless venue. Accepted forms of payment include credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover) and mobile pay options like Apple Pay.

ADA Accommodations:

For ADA requests, assistance, or questions about parking or other accommodations, please email arizonafinancialtheatre@livenation.com.

Questions and Support:

For questions about Dual Enrollment or Commencement, please contact us:

• Kevin Castillo: kevin.castillo@riosalado.edu

• Rolando Vazquez Jr.: rolando.vazquez.jr@riosalado.edu

• Felicitas Herrera: felicitas.herrera@riosalado.edu

• Elise Fraher: elise.fraher@riosalado.edu

• General inquiries: success.coach@riosalado.edu

We’re excited to celebrate your achievements and look forward to seeing you at the ceremony!