Pikes Peak State College Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Pikes Peak State College has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, and technology.

Driven by a commitment to student success, Pikes Peak State College empowers individuals to achieve their aspirations through accessible education, fostering a supportive environment for personal and professional growth across Colorado Springs and beyond.

Leadership Roles at Pikes Peak State College

  • Vice President, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer, Amp - Darlene Melby
  • President - Lance Bolton
  • Chief of Staff - M. Cortez
  • Associate Chief Technology Officer - Fabrizio Labate
  • Darlene Melby - Vice President, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer, Amp

    Darlene Melby, the Vice President, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer, Amp at Pikes Peak State College, manages the institution's financial health and administrative operations. Melby oversees all fiscal activities, including budgeting, financial planning, and resource management, ensuring that tuition remains significantly lower than university counterparts and that millions in aid and scholarships are effectively distributed. This role is critical in upholding the college's commitment to affordability and accessibility for its diverse student body. Darlene Melby also directs administrative services, encompassing human resources, facilities management, and procurement, to support the college's three campuses and online learning centers throughout Colorado Springs. The financial strategies implemented by Melby are designed to sustain and expand the college's offerings, enabling Pikes Peak State College to continue transforming student passions into tangible careers while maintaining a strong sense of belonging for all learners.

    Lance Bolton - President

    Lance Bolton, the President at Pikes Peak State College, provides overarching leadership and strategic vision for the institution. Bolton champions the college's core mission: to empower students dreaming of a better life by providing accessible, affordable, and adaptable educational pathways. Under Bolton's direction, Pikes Peak State College maintains its commitment to meeting students at their point of need, whether through its multiple campuses, extensive online offerings, or flexible class schedules. Lance Bolton ensures that the college's financial accessibility, with tuition significantly lower than university counterparts and substantial aid programs, remains a cornerstone of its service to the Colorado Springs community and beyond. Bolton's leadership guides the institution in cultivating a supportive learning environment that fosters belonging for a diverse student body, from recent high school graduates to veterans and working professionals, all seeking to build a better future.
    Lance Bolton

    M. Cortez - Chief of Staff

    M. Cortez, the Chief of Staff at Pikes Peak State College, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across the institution. Cortez ensures that institutional goals, as outlined in the company's mission to foster student success and provide accessible education, are effectively translated into actionable plans. This leadership involves close collaboration with all departments to optimize resource allocation and streamline administrative processes, directly supporting the college's commitment to meeting students where they are physically, educationally, and financially. Cortez's oversight extends to enhancing the efficiency of campus operations and supporting the development of new programs that cater to diverse student needs, including veterans, single parents, and working professionals. The strategic direction provided by Cortez is crucial for maintaining the college's competitive edge and its ability to adapt to the evolving landscape of higher education, ensuring Pikes Peak State College remains a vital resource for the Colorado Springs community and beyond.

    Fabrizio Labate - Associate Chief Technology Officer

    Fabrizio Labate, the Associate Chief Technology Officer at Pikes Peak State College, drives the technological infrastructure and digital learning initiatives. Labate oversees the development and implementation of innovative technology solutions that enhance the educational experience for students across multiple campuses and online platforms. This includes managing the college's IT systems, ensuring robust cybersecurity measures, and supporting the integration of new digital tools that make PPSC adaptable to any lifestyle. Fabrizio Labate's work is fundamental to the college's mission of reaching students where they are, providing flexible day and evening classes and extensive online options. By optimizing the technological environment, Labate directly contributes to the college's ability to offer over 150 degrees and certificate programs, turning student interests into extraordinary career paths and supporting a supportive learning environment for a diverse student population.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Pikes Peak State College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Pikes Peak State College?
    Pikes Peak State College is led by Darlene Melby (Vice President, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer, Amp), along with executives such as Lance Bolton (President) and M. Cortez (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of Pikes Peak State College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Pikes Peak State College includes leaders such as Darlene Melby (Vice President, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer, Amp), Lance Bolton (President), M. Cortez (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Pikes Peak State College have?
    Pikes Peak State College has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Pikes Peak State College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Pikes Peak State College includes roles such as Vice President, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer, Amp, President, Chief of Staff, Associate Chief Technology Officer.