FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Pikes Peak State College Earns National Recognition for Leadership in Student Support, Military Excellence, Workforce Innovation and Communications
Colorado Springs, CO—Thursday, December 4, 2025— Across the country, higher education is navigating complex challenges that include changing workforce demands, growing expectations around mental health support and an increasing need for flexible and affordable learning options. Pikes Peak State College (PPSC) has been recognized nationally for work that directly responds to these pressures and offers a model for what a modern community college can provide.

The college earned significant honors for 2025 and 2026 that highlight progress across student services, academics, workforce partnerships and communication. While each award stands on its own, together they show a college advancing solutions that reflect the national direction of higher education and the needs of the Pikes Peak region.

Student Support and Belonging
Across the United States, mental health remains one of the most significant issues affecting college students. PPSC’s work in belonging, culturally responsive care and early intervention earned national recognition through the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award, the Excellence in Mental Health and Well-Being Award and selection to The Steve Fund’s 2025 cohort. These honors reflect the college’s commitment to building an environment where all students feel welcomed, supported and prepared for success.

“Students are asking for learning environments that support their whole well-being,” says Yolanda Harris, Director of the Counseling Center at PPSC. “These recognitions show that PPSC is listening and responding in ways that help students succeed.”

Military-Affiliated Excellence
PPSC continues to be recognized as one of the strongest colleges in the country for military-connected students and employees. Military Times again named PPSC one of its Best for Vets Colleges for 2025, placing the college among the top institutions in Colorado and nationwide. The publication also recognized PPSC as a Best for Vets Employer, underscoring the college’s commitment to supporting both military-affiliated learners and military-connected professionals.

“Our commitment to service members and their families is part of the foundation of this college,” says Paul DeCecco, Director of Military and Veterans Programs. “These rankings reflect the consistent work happening across campuses every day.”

Workforce and Academic Innovation
Community colleges continue to play a critical role in preparing students for careers in high-demand fields and PPSC’s recent recognitions highlight that impact. The college was named a finalist for the 2026 Bellwether Award in Workforce Development for its submission, “From Barriers to Breakthroughs: The D2 Promise Program.” PPSC will present at the Community College Futures Assembly in San Antonio in February 2026.

The college’s Nursing Program also earned statewide recognition as one of the top programs in Colorado for 2026. RegisteredNursing.org ranked PPSC second in the state, citing strong academic preparation, hands-on clinical experience, and consistent performance outcomes.

In addition, PPSC received national recognition from the Instructional Technology Council for excellence in course design. Christine Gaccetta-Sharp earned the 2025 Outstanding eCourse Designer or Design Team Award for her work on the Digital Accessibility course, reflecting PPSC’s leadership in high-quality, inclusive online learning.

“Our programs reflect the workforce needs of our region and our state,” says Gary Walker, Associate Vice President of Instructional Services. “These recognitions are the result of strong partnerships and a commitment to meeting those needs with high-quality education.”

National Leadership in Communication and Outreach
PPSC’s Marketing and Communications Department earned multiple honors at the 2025 National Council for Marketing and Public Relations Regional Conference. The department’s work received national awards for cornerstone recruiting materials like the college viewbook and the program rack card series. The department also secured top placement for promotional materials that highlight PPSC’s efforts to make higher education accessible to all through video content for high school and promise programs. PPSC’s communication around the Engineering launch to the International Space Station also earned recognition.

“Using technology, including AI when it genuinely helps, lets our team work more efficiently and stay focused on creating clear, accessible communication,” said Matt Radcliffe, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications. “I’m proud of the creative and thoughtful work our team brings to every project.”

PPSC’s Path Forward
Taken together, these national recognitions reflect a college moving forward with purpose. They highlight PPSC’s work to support mental health, build inclusive learning environments, strengthen military pathways and prepare students for careers that drive the Colorado economy. Most importantly, they honor the dedication of faculty and staff who bring the college’s mission to life each day.

“This is a moment of pride for our college and the community we serve,” said President Lance Bolton. “These recognitions show that PPSC is not only responding to the challenges facing higher education but helping define what comes next.”

About Pikes Peak State College (PPSC):
Established in 1968 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Pikes Peak offers associate degrees, certificates in career and technical fields and four bachelors’ degrees. With four campuses, various off-campus locations, two military education centers, and hundreds of online classes, PPSC provides access to a quality, affordable and flexible education to more than 17,000 students annually with both credit and non-credit classes.

Media Contact:
Rachel Tyrrell BS, BA
Content Coordinator in Marketing and Communications at Pikes Peak State College
Mobile: 719-715-3297
Email: rachel.tyrrell@pikespeak.edu
Pronouns: she/her