FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PPSC to Host “Rooted in Resilience” Mental Health Symposium Centering Communities of Color
Two-day event will highlight culturally-grounded approaches to healing, identity, and mental wellness, centering communities of color
Colorado Springs, CO — Tuesday, April 21, 2026 — Pikes Peak State College (PPSC) will host Rooted in Resilience: A Mental Health Symposium on May 29–30, 2026, at its Centennial Campus. The free, two-day event centers the mental health experiences of communities of color and brings together students, educators, professionals and community members for culturally grounded dialogue and learning. Media are invited to attend and share the invitation with the greater community in the Pikes Peak Region. Both in-person and virtual options are available. Registration is required at https://tinyurl.com/rir-reg-in-person or https://tinyurl.com/rir-reg-virtual.
The symposium begins Friday, May 29, from 6–9 pm with a keynote presentation by Dr. Janiece Mackey, a nationally recognized leader in youth development and civic engagement. Her keynote will explore healing, identity, and the role of lived experience in strengthening individuals and communities. The event continues Saturday, May 30, from 8:30 am–4 pm with a full day of breakout sessions focused on practical tools and culturally responsive approaches to mental wellness.
“This symposium reflects our commitment to creating spaces where all members of our
community feel seen, supported and empowered,” says Dr. Yolanda Harris, Director of
the Counseling Center at PPSC. “By centering diverse perspectives and lived experiences,
we are advancing conversations that strengthen both individual well-being and community
resilience.
PPSC’s Counseling Center plays a central role in supporting student well-being, offering
free, confidential, and culturally responsive mental health services to all enrolled
students. The center provides short-term counseling, crisis support, and referrals
to community resources, helping students navigate personal challenges that may impact
their academic success. Through both in-person and telehealth options, the Counseling
Center ensures accessible, student-centered care that aligns with the college’s commitment
to holistic support and community wellness.
Event Details
Rooted in Resilience Health Symposium
Friday, May 29, 6–9 pm | Saturday, May 30, 8:30 am–4 pm
PPSC Centennial Campus (5675 S Academy Blvd., Colorado Springs)
Parking is available in the E Lot, with entry through the East doors.
Registration is free but required and available in-person at tinyurl.com/rir-reg-in-person or virtually at tinyurl.com/rir-reg-virtual.
Sessions will cover a range of topics, including trauma-informed care, identity and belonging, substance use and recovery, and strategies for supporting mental health in culturally diverse communities. Attendees will leave with practical strategies, deeper cultural understanding and tools they can apply in their personal and professional lives.
For more information about the conference, contact the PPSC Counseling Center at 719-502-4782 or counselingcenter@pikespeak.edu. For media inquiries, reach Rachel Tyrrell at 719-715-3297 or Rachel.tyrrell@pikespeak.edu.
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.
About the PPSC Counseling Center:
The Pikes Peak State College Counseling Center provides free, confidential, and culturally
responsive mental health services to support student well-being and success. Services
include short-term counseling, crisis support, and referrals to community resources,
with both in-person and telehealth options available. The Counseling Center is committed
to creating a supportive environment where students can access care, build resilience,
and navigate personal challenges while pursuing their academic goals.
Media Contact:
Rachel Tyrrell BS, BA
Content Coordinator
Marketing and Communications
Pikes Peak State College
Mobile: 719-715-3297
Email: rachel.tyrrell@pikespeak.edu