FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PPSC Promise Programs Growing, Opening Doors for Local Families
Colorado Springs, CO — Wednesday, July 8, 2026 — For hundreds of local students, the path to college is becoming clearer and more affordable through Pikes Peak State College's (PPSC) Promise Programs. Since their launch, PPSC's Promise Programs have enrolled 785 students, providing eligible learners with tuition assistance, personalized academic coaching and wraparound support to help them succeed. The programs continue to grow, with 174 students already committed to joining the Fall 2026 cohort.
PPSC's Promise Programs serve eligible graduates from Harrison School District 2 and Colorado Springs School District 11, as well as students who are enrolled members of federally or state-recognized Native American tribes living in El Paso, Teller or Elbert counties through the First Nations Promise Program.
Promise scholars are often the first in their families to pursue a college degree. Applying for college, obtaining financial aid, enrolling in classes and ordering class materials can be overwhelming for any new student, especially those without an experienced alumni to guide them. That’s why the Promise Program Welcome Orientation is vital for scholars to successfully launch their college journey.
"Promise Programs are about creating opportunity," says Krista Wallace, Director of PPSC’s Promise Programs. "By removing financial barriers and surrounding students with personalized support, we are helping more students see college as an attainable goal and giving them the tools to succeed once they get here."
This summer, PPSC will welcome Promise students at a specific orientation designed just for them. New scholars will meet college staff, learn how to maintain eligibility, review financial aid requirements and connect with campus resources. The sessions are designed to help students and families feel prepared before the fall semester begins.This year’s Promise Program Welcome Orientations will be held mid-morning on July 10th and early afternoon on July 24th.
The support doesn’t stop after orientation. Promise coaches provide personalized academic coaching and wraparound support for each Promise scholar to ensure they stay on track, are aware of resources that are available to assist them in their goals and point them toward any assistance they might need. The heart behind PPSC Program Programs is to ensure each scholar knows that they belong in higher education. For more information about PPSC Promise Programs, visit pikespeak.edu/promise-programs.
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 a growing number of 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.