Grant helps Native American PPSC students with costs

(COLORADO SPRINGS) — A new program launching at Pikes Peak State College (PPSC) will cover direct costs and offer coaching to Native American students.

According to PPSC, First Nations Promise is a last-dollar grant that will help members of federally recognized American Indian tribes residing in El Paso, Teller, or Elbert counties. The funding can be applied to direct costs like tuition and student fees, and academic coaches will work closely with First Nations Promise scholars to offer resources that support students in their time at PPSC.

“We recognized Pikes Peak State College is uniquely suited to support our Native American community,” said Dr. Lance Bolton, President of PPSC. “By adapting and modifying our existing Promise Programs – proven tools in increasing college-going rates – we have created the PPSC First Nations Promise. It will remove barriers, provide greater educational access, and ultimately create positive impacts for the Native American communities in the Pikes Peak Region.”

According to the U.S. Census Bureau in 2022, nearly 30% of the Native Americans living in El Paso County were living below the poverty line. PPSC said this program ensures Native Americans in Colorado Springs are actively invited to pursue and complete their academic and career interests.

Funding for the grant comes from the Dakota Foundation, which is committed to gifting $50,000 per year for the next five years toward First Nations Promise. PPSC said the Dakota Foundation’s contribution is coupled with a $250,000 commitment from the Daniels Fund, bringing the total funding to half a million dollars.

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