By Kris McBride/EAC
THATCHER — Eastern Arizona College will host its 136th annual Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 9, 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 recognize the accomplishments of 876 graduates — a 166-student increase from last year. The ceremony will also be live-streamed on the College’s YouTube channel, accessible via www.eac.edu.
The ceremony will commence with Dallen Rogers of Vail, Arizona, president of the Associated Students of Eastern Arizona College, calling the gathering to order.
Madisen Skousen, a 2021 graduate of Thatcher High School, represents the graduating class. Skousen earned her Associate of General Studies degree in 2024 while completing EAC’s Radiologic Technology Program prerequisites. She will receive her Associate of Applied Science degree in radiologic technology at this year’s commencement. Skousen completed her clinical rotations and is finishing her training at Summit Healthcare in Show Low, where she has secured a full-time position.
Sharon Montoya, EAC Director of Financial Aid and Veteran Services, will serve as the faculty and staff speaker. Montoya has more than 20 years of experience supporting students at EAC. She holds bachelor’s and graduate degrees from Northern Arizona University and recently earned the Certified Financial Aid Administrator designation from the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators.
“Sharon provides exceptional support to EAC students every day,” said Susan Wood, EAC vice president of academic and student affairs. “Many students and community members have benefited from her tireless efforts to secure the funding they need to pursue education and advance their careers. Her dedication and expertise have made a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.”
Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen will be the guest speaker for the evening. A third-generation Gilbert resident, Petersen has served in the Arizona Legislature since 2012 and is known for his public service and advocacy for Arizona families. He has held various leadership roles, including House majority leader, chair of the rules, commerce, and judiciary committees, and service on the Ethics Committee. His legislative work has earned honors from the National Federation of Independent Business, the Goldwater Institute, and the Arizona Free Enterprise Club.
In addition to his public service, Petersen brings more than 20 years of experience in the real estate industry, including ownership of a brokerage firm. He is a proud graduate of Gilbert High School and earned both his bachelor’s and Juris Doctor degrees from Arizona State University. A lifelong youth and community service advocate, Petersen is an Eagle Scout, Silver Beaver Award recipient, and a Hall of Fame Commissioner with the Boy Scouts of America.
The commencement ceremony on Friday evening will conclude with the conferring of Associate of Arts, Associate of Business, Associate of General Studies, Associate of Science, and Associate of Applied Science degrees and certificates to the graduation candidates.
The 876 candidates for graduation come to EAC from 13 Arizona counties, 14 states, and 16 countries, including: Australia, Brazil, England, Estonia, France, Hungary, Italy, Jamaica, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, Ukraine, and the United States of America.
Among this year’s graduates, 226 will receive honors distinction. Graduates will pursue careers and further study in business, engineering, education, finance, medicine, and more.
