THATCHER, Ariz. — Eastern Arizona College (EA) will host its 137th annual commencement ceremony on Friday, May 8, 2026, at John Mickelson Stadium. The procession will begin at 7:15 p.m., with the formal program starting at 7:30 p.m. The event is open to the public and will celebrate the awarding of 706 degrees and certificates to 636 students, including, for the first time in the College’s history, bachelor’s degrees. The ceremony will also be livestreamed on EA’s YouTube channel.
The ceremony will commence with Vard Jensen, president of the Associated Students of Eastern Arizona College, who will call the gathering to order.
Representing the graduating class is Dillon McCray, a 2023 graduate of Pima High School, who will earn an Associate of Applied Science degree in computer-aided design and drafting technology. He plans to enter the workforce after graduation and gain experience as he works toward opening his own residential design firm.
Lydia Montoya, a professor of applied computer science in EA’s Business Department, will serve as the faculty speaker. A graduate of Safford High School and Eastern Arizona College, she earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in information technology and has served as a full-time faculty member since 2008.
Montoya began her teaching career as an adjunct instructor and quickly developed a passion for student success. Over the years, she has played a key role in preparing students for careers in technology, business, and other professional fields.
“Lydia is an exceptional educator who combines deep knowledge of computer science with a genuine passion for student success,” said Susan Wood, EA vice president of academic and student affairs. “Her students not only learn the material at a high level, but they feel supported and inspired every step of the way.”
The guest speaker for the evening is Katherine Haley, president of the Arizona State Board of Education. An Arizona native and small-business owner, Haley has extensive experience in public policy and education, including service in the U.S. House and U.S. Senate, as well as leadership roles focused on K–12 education initiatives.
In her current role, Haley helps oversee academic standards, accountability systems, and statewide education policy. She has been a leading voice in advancing educational opportunity and strengthening pathways for student success across Arizona.
Concluding Friday evening’s commencement ceremony will be the conferring of Associate of Arts, Associate of Applied Science, Associate of Business, Associate of General Studies, and Associate of Science degrees, as well as certificates of completion. For the first time in the College’s history, bachelor’s degrees will also be awarded through EA’s Bachelor of Health Sciences program.
Among this year’s graduates, 159 degrees and certificates will be awarded with honors distinction. Graduates will go on to pursue careers and further study in business, engineering, education, healthcare, finance, skilled trades, and more.
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Eastern Arizona College’s 137th annual commencement ceremony is set for Friday, May 8, 2026, at EA’s John Mickelson Stadium at 7:30 p.m. This event will also be livestreamed on EAC’s YouTube channel, located at https://www.youtube.com/@easternarizona/streams. [EAC photo by Olivia Vaigatolo.]
