Pikes Peak State College Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

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 directs all fiscal activities, including budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, ensuring the college maintains its commitment to affordability with tuition significantly lower than university counterparts. This role is essential for securing millions of dollars in aid and scholarships available to students, making education financially accessible. Darlene Melby oversees administrative services, optimizing operational efficiency across campuses and learning centers in Colorado Springs. The Vice President, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer, Amp ensures that financial strategies support the college's mission of empowering students from all backgrounds to achieve their dreams. Melby's leadership guarantees robust financial oversight and efficient administrative processes, reinforcing Pikes Peak State College's position as a vital educational resource.

    Lance Bolton - President

    Lance Bolton, the President at Pikes Peak State College, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the institution's mission. Bolton champions the college's commitment to meeting students where they are, physically, educationally, and financially, across its Colorado Springs locations and online platforms. This leadership role involves fostering a supportive learning environment for a diverse student body, including high school graduates, veterans, and working adults. Lance Bolton guides the development and expansion of over 150 degrees and certificate programs, ensuring they translate student passions into tangible career outcomes. The President's vision is instrumental in maintaining Pikes Peak State College's affordability and accessibility, aligning institutional goals with the aspirations of every student seeking a better future. Bolton's dedication drives the college's impact, creating a sense of belonging for those building careers close to home or embarking on journeys to everywhere.
    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 translate into actionable plans, facilitating communication between executive leadership and various departments. This role involves managing key projects and advising the President on critical organizational matters, directly supporting the college's mission to provide accessible and adaptable education. By streamlining internal processes and fostering cross-functional collaboration, Cortez enhances the efficiency of administrative services. The Chief of Staff's oversight extends to implementing policies that support student success and institutional development, ensuring that Pikes Peak State College remains responsive to the evolving needs of its diverse student body and the Colorado Springs community. M. Cortez's leadership is pivotal in maintaining the college's commitment to reaching students where they are, both physically and educationally.

    Fabrizio Labate - Associate Chief Technology Officer

    Fabrizio Labate, the Associate Chief Technology Officer at Pikes Peak State College, spearheads the technological infrastructure and digital learning environments. Labate oversees the implementation and maintenance of IT systems that support the college's extensive online course offerings and three physical campuses throughout Colorado Springs. This leadership position is crucial for ensuring seamless access to educational resources for a diverse student population, including veterans, single parents, and working professionals. Fabrizio Labate drives innovation in educational technology, enhancing the student experience and supporting the college's commitment to affordability by optimizing resource allocation. The Associate Chief Technology Officer ensures that technological advancements align with Pikes Peak State College's mission to provide adaptable learning solutions and prepare students for fulfilling careers. Labate's focus remains on leveraging technology to break down barriers to education and foster a supportive digital learning ecosystem.

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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.