SALINAS, Calif. — May 20, 2026 — Hartnell Community College District will celebrate the academic achievements of the Class of 2026 during its commencement ceremony on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 4 p.m. at Rabobank Stadium. 

The ceremony will include the official conferring of degrees by Superintendent/President Michael Gutierrez and is expected to honor more than 2,347 students who petitioned to graduate, marking the largest graduating class in the college’s 105-year history. 

This year, the college will award more than 2,120 degrees and more than 1,460 certificates of achievement, reflecting continued growth in student success and completion. 

“For the first time in Hartnell’s history, we are celebrating graduates earning bachelor’s degrees, marking a significant milestone for our institution,” said Gutierrez. “This commencement represents achievement, opportunity, and the impact community colleges have in our communities.” 

By the numbers: Class of 2026 Highlights 

• More than 2,120 degrees awarded 

• More than 1,460 certificates of achievement awarded 

• 65 valedictorians earned a perfect 4.0 GPA 

• 1,013 students are graduating with honors 

• Seven students will become the first in Hartnell history to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Respiratory Care 

Among this year’s graduates is 17-year old dual-enrollment student Valeria Beltran, the college’s youngest graduate, who is earning an associate degree in general studies summa cum laude. Next month, she will also graduate from Gonzales High School with her high school diploma. Hartnell’s oldest graduates this year are both 67 years old. 

Rabobank Stadium gates will open at 2:30 p.m. Guest seating will be available on a first come, first served basis, and a guest pass will be required for entry. Sign language interpreting services will be provided for guests who are deaf and hard of hearing.  

For information regarding accessible parking and seating, guests are encouraged to check in at the front gate for assistance. 

To help ensure a meaningful and respectful ceremony for all graduates and attendees, Hartnell College asks guests to follow posted guidelines and instructions throughout the event.