<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><item href="/about/news/articles/PPSC-Earns-Basic-Needs-Designation.php" dsn="news"><pubDate>06/30/2026</pubDate><description>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
			Pikes Peak State College Earns Colorado Department of Higher Education Inaugural Basic Needs Campus Designation-Comprehensive Tier 
			Colorado Springs, CO – Tuesday, June 30, 2026 – Pikes Peak State College (PPSC) has been recognized by the Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE) as part of the inaugural cohort of institutions receiving the Colorado Basic Needs Campus Designation– Comprehensive Tier. The designation recognizes colleges and universities that support students' essential needs, including food security, mental health, financial wellness, transportation and access to critical resources. 
			
			"Student success doesn't happen by accident," said Dr. Lance Bolton, President of Pikes Peak State College. "It requires intentional support, strong partnerships, and a college-wide commitment to helping students overcome barriers and achieve their goals. This recognition reflects the dedication of our faculty, staff, and partners who make that work possible every day." </description><author/><image><img src="/_images-universal/vertical-images/events/SSJ%20Square%20Graphic_July%202026_1000x1000.jpg" alt="five students smiling at the camera and lined up along a staircase rail with text: Pikes Peak State College Earns Colorado Department of Higher Education Basic Needs Campus Designation"/></image><featured>true</featured><summary>Pikes Peak State College (PPSC) received the 2026 Top Colleges for
						Innovation Award from Insight Into Academia magazine, the nation’s
						longest-running publication advancing best practices in higher education.</summary><tags><tag>2026</tag><tag>news</tag><tag>press</tag></tags><title>Pikes Peak State College Earns Colorado Department of Higher Education Inaugural Basic Needs Campus Designation-Comprehensive Tier</title></item>