40th Anniversary Throwback Thursday 1994-96

Welcome to the past! Our next stop on the 40th anniversary Throwback Thursday timeline is 1994-96.

In the mid-1990s, Rio Salado was on the move! In 1995, the college purchased a building in Tempe to serve as its new headquarters, after being located in Phoenix for 17 years. The Tempe building, located at 2323 W. 14th Street, was to be home to administrative offices, faculty and student services, 12 classrooms, the KJZZ and KBAQ radio stations and a Technology Center.

Here are some statistics about Rio students from that time:

• 3,000+ students taking "distance learning classes" 
• 24,000 students a year at 250 locations throughout the Valley 
• 71% of Rio students worked full-time

Rio Salado was also moving into the West Valley to expand its offerings. In 1996 the college opened its Lifelong Learning Center (LLC) in Surprise to serve seniors and learners of all ages. The LLC offered credit and non-credit computer classes and continuing education programs.

“I’m very pleased to know that it’s an inter-generational facility, from the older to the younger end of the learning spectrum,” said Joan Shafer, mayor of Surprise at the time. “It’s the key to a better and happier future.”

Do you remember this time? Share your photos, stories and memories via email to RSCmemories@riosalado.edu or social media using the hashtag #RioSaladoCollege40th.

Earn Your Degree with Our Reverse Transfer

An official associate degree is a valuable credential, which can give you a competitive edge when you’re applying for internships and jobs.

Did you know that Maricopa Community Colleges students and alumni can combine community college and university credits to meet the requirements for an associate degree?

Finish What You Started! See if you qualify for our Reverse Transfer Program!

June is #PTSD Awareness Month

Learn, Connect and Share!

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can occur after someone goes through a traumatic event like combat, assault or disaster.

If you have experienced trauma or know someone who has, visit this U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs web page to learn about new research, treatment methods and educational resources.

Veterans, please, do not hesitate to call on our Military Veterans Success Center staff for local resources and referrals 480-384-9850.

Meet the Rio Salado AACE Class of 2018

Congratulations to the Rio Salado College 2018 Adults Achieving a College Education (AACE) graduates!

Pictured above are the 37 AACE students who were honored at the June 12, 2018 completion ceremony at Rio Salado College in Tempe, accompanied by Rio Salado and Maricopa Community Colleges staff who helped them to celebrate their accomplishments. Check out this Facebook album for more photos.

Rio Salado’s AACE program is designed to help students transition seamlessly to college—while they are completing their High School Equivalency GED® test preparation program and English Language Acquisition for Adults classes at Rio Salado.

The program helps students improve their academic skills in math, reading and English so they are prepared to take college-level courses.


Here is what some of the 2018 graduates have to say about the AACE program.

The first day in AACE was the worst in my life because I was very afraid of failure, but through this journey I discovered my new self-worth. Today, I am more confident and productive because I know that I can accomplish what I set my mind to. Ruba Mahmood

When I started AACE, I was afraid. My English was not great, but I didn’t want to give up. Because of my instructors and fellow students, I am closer to my goals. My life is changing because I am more confident. I feel so much appreciation for this program, the staff, and the teachers who encouraged me - this program changed my life. Aurelio Yanez

The program helped me to have better time management and to rewire negative thoughts and opinions I set up for myself. Teachers and staff are very understanding and very helpful when times are tough and when it's not quite easy. I'm very happy that I have done this for myself and my family, now I feel better prepared for my future. Kaylanna Etsitty

The AACE program was a great opportunity to further my education. I was able to learn a lot and gain essential skills to take along with as I progress further. Skills like time management and core knowledge. I plan on starting my bachelor's in science soon. Anthony Flores

If I didn’t get accepted into AACE, I probably wouldn’t have continued to pursue my GED. AACE gave me more confidence. I am now excited to continue with my education and I will transfer to ASU with a major in CIS and a focus in Information Assurance. Magdalena Espinoza

Visit this web page to learn more about Rio Salado’s AACE program.

Rio Salado College serves as the principal provider of GED® test preparation programs for the Maricopa Community Colleges and the largest provider of adult basic education in the state of Arizona. Visit this web page for additional details.

Remembering Juneteenth and U.S. End of Slavery

Rio Salado College proudly recognizes Juneteenth-- the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. 

More than two years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, effective January 1, 1863, Texans received the news on June 19, 1865, that slavery had ended. 

In many states, festivals are held annually by African Americans to commemorate their freedom. 

Learn more about Juneteenth in this USA TODAY feature.

News courtesy of Rio Salado’s Diversity and Inclusion Council