Pikes Peak State College Executive and Leadership Team

Darlene Melby, the Vice President, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer, Amp at Pikes Peak State College, manages the fiscal health and administrative infrastructure of the institution. Melby oversees the allocation of millions of dollars in aid and scholarships, ensuring that the college remains an affordable option for students. By directing budget planning and financial reporting, the Vice President, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer, Amp maintains the fiscal discipline necessary to keep tuition rates significantly lower than university counterparts. Melby coordinates with the Board to optimize resource distribution across three campuses and various learning centers. This leadership role involves balancing long-term financial sustainability with the immediate need for high-quality educational facilities. Darlene Melby drives the strategic financial planning that allows the college to expand its reach and support a wide variety of learners, from high school graduates to retirees, in their pursuit of better lives.

Lance Bolton, the President at Pikes Peak State College, defines the overarching vision and strategic direction for the entire institution. Bolton leads the executive team in fostering a supportive learning environment that caters to the unique needs of veterans, single parents, and career-focused students. By championing the college's mission to provide accessible, high-quality education, the President ensures that all 150-plus degree programs remain relevant to the current job market. Bolton engages with community leaders and regional partners to expand the college's impact throughout Colorado. This leadership role involves setting the tone for institutional culture and driving initiatives that promote student belonging and success. Lance Bolton executes the long-term strategy that transforms student passions into rewarding careers. Through consistent focus on growth and inclusivity, Bolton secures the college's position as a vital resource for those seeking to build a better future.

Cyrille Parent, the Chief Technology Officer at Pikes Peak State College, directs the digital infrastructure supporting 150-plus academic programs. Parent architects scalable cloud environments and secure network systems that facilitate seamless online learning for students across the Colorado region. By modernizing campus-wide information systems, the Chief Technology Officer ensures that faculty and learners access essential educational tools without interruption. Parent manages the integration of emerging instructional technologies, aligning technical capabilities with the evolving needs of a diverse student body. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with academic departments to optimize digital resources and enhance the overall user experience. Through the implementation of robust cybersecurity protocols, Cyrille Parent protects institutional data while maintaining an open, accessible environment for all users. Ultimately, Parent drives the technological transformation necessary to support the college's mission of providing high-quality, flexible education to every student.

Allison Cortez, the Chief of Staff at Pikes Peak State College, coordinates executive operations and facilitates strategic alignment across all campus departments. Cortez manages high-level initiatives that bridge the gap between administrative goals and student-facing services. By streamlining communication channels, the Chief of Staff ensures that leadership decisions translate into effective support for the diverse student population. Cortez oversees the execution of institutional priorities, maintaining focus on the college's commitment to affordability and accessibility. This role requires constant interaction with various stakeholders to resolve complex operational challenges and foster a supportive learning environment. Allison Cortez drives organizational efficiency by refining internal processes and ensuring that resources reach the areas of greatest need. Through meticulous planning and cross-departmental coordination, Cortez secures the operational stability required to help students achieve their academic and career dreams while staying close to home.