El Valle Puede Celebration Tips Off Arizona Decision Day 2026

More than 1,800 Arizona high school seniors gathered yesterday at Mortgage Matchup Center for the El Valle Puede Celebration, a high-energy event hosted by Phoenix Suns/Phoenix Mercury Foundation in partnership with Helios Education Foundation and the Arizona Board of Regents.

The event served as the official tip-off to Arizona Decision Day 2026, celebrated annually on May 1 in alignment with National College Decision Day. It’s a day when high school seniors are encouraged to take charge of their futures by making plans beyond high school—whether that includes college, trade school, military service or entering the workforce.

Five students were also surprised during the event as this year’s El Valle Puede scholarship recipients, funded by Helios, each receiving $20,000 to use towards their education at an accredited Arizona public university.

“The Phoenix Suns/Phoenix Mercury Foundation is committed to using basketball to connect with and support our community,” said Phoenix Suns/Phoenix Mercury Foundation Executive Director Sarah Krahenbuhl. “Welcoming 1,800 students into our arena who are filled with excitement for their futures is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we come together to champion the next generation.

“We are proud to celebrate Arizona’s graduating seniors at such an important moment in their journey,” said Vince Roig, Founding Board Chair of Helios Education Foundation. “As Arizona Decision Day approaches, this event is a reminder that every student deserves to feel seen, supported and excited about what comes next. Whether they are headed to college, career training or another pathway, we want students to know their futures are full of possibility.”

The celebration featured a college resource fair and remarks from Vince Roig, Founding Board Chairman of Helios Education Foundation; Jane LaRocca Roig, Board Vice Chair of Helios Education Foundation; and Felipe Garcia, student regent for the Arizona Board of Regents.

Students enjoyed game day festivities including T-shirt tosses, on-court competitions and performances from Suns and Mercury entertainment teams, followed by a private concert by Mexican-American hip-hop artist Baby Bash.

“Arizona’s success is shaped by its students,” said Regent Garcia. “By continuing their education, each of these students is investing in their future and opening doors to new opportunities. These students should be proud of what they are building for themselves and for Arizona.”

Arizona Decision Day is a statewide effort to celebrate high school seniors and encourage them to take the next step toward higher education and career success. El Valle Puede helps support that momentum by bringing students together for a memorable experience that celebrates their achievements and reinforces that their goals, dreams and futures matter.

For more information about Arizona Decision Day and ways high school principals, counselors, teachers and others can celebrate the graduating Class of 2026, visit College Ready AZ’s website.