Pikes Peak State College Executive and Leadership Team

Darlene Melby, the Vice President, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer, Amp at Pikes Peak State College, oversees the fiscal health and operational sustainability of the institution. Melby manages the allocation of millions of dollars in aid and scholarships, ensuring that tuition remains accessible for students seeking a better life through education. The Vice President, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer, Amp directs the budgeting process for three campuses and various learning centers, balancing the need for high-quality facilities with the mandate for affordability. Darlene Melby monitors financial performance metrics to support the expansion of academic programs and the maintenance of a supportive learning environment. By optimizing administrative workflows and resource distribution, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that the college operates within its financial reach while providing exceptional value. This role involves strategic oversight of institutional assets, directly contributing to the long-term stability and growth of the college across the Colorado region.

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 an inclusive environment that welcomes students from every background, including veterans, retirees, and working professionals. The President champions the mission of providing accessible, high-quality education that turns passions into rewarding careers. Lance Bolton engages with community stakeholders and regional partners to ensure that the college remains a vital hub for workforce development and personal growth. By setting the tone for institutional culture, the President ensures that every department remains focused on the student experience and the goal of building a better future. This leadership role involves navigating complex educational landscapes to maintain the college's reputation for excellence and affordability. Through consistent advocacy and visionary guidance, the President drives the institution toward achieving its goal of helping every student reach their full potential.

Allison Cortez, the Chief of Staff at Pikes Peak State College, manages high-level institutional initiatives and coordinates cross-departmental workflows to ensure alignment with the college mission. Cortez facilitates communication between the executive leadership team and various academic divisions, streamlining decision-making processes that impact student success. By overseeing strategic planning cycles, the Chief of Staff maintains operational focus on the 150-plus degree programs offered across multiple Colorado campuses. Allison Cortez monitors the execution of long-term goals, ensuring that administrative functions support the diverse needs of students ranging from high school graduates to working professionals. This role involves constant collaboration with the President to refine institutional policies and enhance the overall learning environment. Through rigorous project management and internal advocacy, the Chief of Staff drives organizational efficiency, ultimately securing the resources necessary for students to achieve their educational dreams while remaining within their financial reach.

Cyrille Parent, the Chief Technology Officer at Pikes Peak State College, architects the digital infrastructure required to support both physical campus operations and expansive online learning platforms. Parent directs the implementation of advanced educational technologies that enable students to access coursework from anywhere, ensuring that the college remains adaptable to modern lifestyle demands. The Chief Technology Officer manages cybersecurity protocols and data systems that protect sensitive student information while facilitating seamless digital interactions across the institution. Cyrille Parent evaluates emerging software solutions to enhance the virtual classroom experience, directly impacting the quality of instruction for thousands of learners. By aligning technical investments with the broader academic mission, the Chief Technology Officer ensures that the college maintains a competitive edge in the regional education market. This leadership role involves constant innovation to bridge the gap between traditional classroom settings and the evolving needs of a diverse, tech-savvy student body.