MESA, Arizona -- May 5, 2026 – Mesa Community College (MCC) President Dr. Richard Daniel will recognize the accomplishments of more than 3,136 students, according to preliminary figures, who have met academic requirements and are collectively earning 4,262 degrees and certificates of completion during the 2025-2026 academic year.

For the first time in MCC history, graduates will earn bachelor’s degrees in Data Analytics and Programming, with 34 candidates based on current counts. Additionally, 24 candidates are projected to earn bachelor’s degrees in Early Childhood Education-Dual Language, representing the second cohort to complete the program.

More than 650 graduate candidates will participate in the commencement ceremony at 9 a.m., Saturday, May 16, at Arizona State University’s Desert Financial Arena. The public is invited to attend, with doors opening at 8 a.m. Event details are available at mesacc.edu/graduation. A live stream of the ceremony will also be available at mesacc.edu/live for those who wish to participate remotely.

The ceremony, themed “Dream Big, Achieve Bigger,” will include a clarinet performance of the National Anthem by MCC student Joe Giacinto. Speakers include Associated Students of MCC representative Mateo Valdez and Class Honors Speaker Toni-Ann Gardner.

Additional honored guests include keynote speaker and MCC alumnus Karl Schroeder, and Maricopa County Community College District Governing Board President Dr. Linda Thor.

Every student has a unique and meaningful story about their journey to this important milestone. A selection of graduate success stories are available at mesacc.edu/graduation/graduation-success-stories.

“Each of these graduates has demonstrated dedication and resilience in reaching this milestone,” said Dr. Daniel. “As they join the MCC alumni community, we are confident they will continue to learn, grow and make meaningful contributions in their communities. Once a Thunderbird, always a Thunderbird!”

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Media Contact: Dawn Zimmer, dawn.zimmer@mesacc.edu, 480-461-7892

Mesa Community College (MCC) is nationally recognized for its excellence in university transfer, career and technical programs, civic engagement and innovative education. Serving more than 25,500 students annually, MCC offers a range of degree and certificate programs across its two campuses and additional locations. MCC students contribute more than 8,500 hours of community service annually. MCC serves as a key resource for education, workforce development and lifelong learning. The college enhances student success through Guided Pathways with Integrated Support Services. A Hispanic Serving Institution, nearly 50% of MCC students are first-generation college attendees, and it boasts the largest Indigenous student population among Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) colleges, supporting students from 22 Arizona tribes and additional out-of-state tribes. Our award-winning faculty are committed to helping students achieve their goals through high-quality education, training and undergraduate research opportunities. Located in the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona, MCC is one of 10 MCCCD colleges. Learn more at mesacc.edu/newsroom.

MCC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), hlcommission.org.

The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) is an EEO institution and an equal opportunity employer of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or national origin. A lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in the career and technical education programs of the District. MCCCD does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs or activities. For Title IX/504 concerns, call the following number to reach the appointed coordinator: (480) 731-8499. For additional information, as well as a listing of all coordinators within the Maricopa College system, visit www.maricopa.edu/non-discrimination.