Welcome to the latest newsletter installment! This season marks a turning point for PPM. We’re working closely with colleges to make the transition to 2.0 both thoughtful and well-supported.
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PPM 2.0 Pre-Launch Season
PPM Spring Newsletter
April 24, 2025
Introduction
Welcome to the latest newsletter installment! This season marks a turning point for Program Pathways Mapper (PPM). From early testing to regional collaboration, we’re working closely with colleges to make the transition to 2.0 both thoughtful and well-supported. In this issue, you’ll find ways to engage, share your ideas, and stay connected in the lead up to the launch.
Message from Craig
We’re entering an exciting phase for PPM–one shaped by your feedback, leadership, and continued partnership. The rollout of 2.0 isn’t just a software update; it’s a reflection of what we’ve learned together about supporting students with greater clarity and purpose. I’m grateful for the work you’re doing on your campuses and proud of the progress we’re making as a statewide community.
PPM Updates
Grant Extension
The deadline for the PPM Grant has been extended to April 30, 2025. A reminder of up to $60,000 in grant funding per institution is available to support PPM efforts at the California Community Colleges, California State University, and University of California systems. Signing up takes 5 minutes. If you are interested, or would like to refer this opportunity to a campus, please complete or share this Google Form, or email our team at PPM-support@foundationccc.org to learn more.
User Group Convening
Join us for the Spring 2025 PPM User Group Convening, a live Zoom session scheduled on Friday, May 9, 2025 unveiling key updates for the PPM 2.0 launch. We’ll cover what’s new, why it matters, and how PPM 2.0 will better support student success and faculty-led planning. Attendees will have the chance to ask questions, join the pilot group, and sign up for user testing. Don’t miss this opportunity to preview what’s next for PPM–shaped by your feedback. Register here to attend.
UAT Testing
We are inviting current PPM users to join our User Acceptance Testing (UAT) group for PPM 2.0. Participants will get early access to the platform and help shape the final user experience. Testing runs mid-June to the end of July and involves light interaction with the tool. All confirmed participants will receive a $50 e-card as appreciation for their time and feedback. Please email PPM-support@foundationccc.org if interested.
PPM 2.0 Pre-Launch
PPM 2.0 introduces a streamlined design, improved navigation, and enhanced mapping features that better serve our faculty, administrators, and students. For current users, the transition will come with dedicated support resources and live opportunities to ask questions. Our team is here to ensure that every campus feels confident and prepared for the shift. Together, we’re making this transition a community-driven moment for progress and student-centered solutions.
User Testimonial
UC Merced faculty member
“Well, I think the way that it [PPM] impacts the four-year school is that it provides a clear understanding to the two-year student of what they would need to do, and I would imagine that would then influence whether or not the student chose to apply to a four-year school. And so I see this as a recruiting tool.”
Upcoming Events
Other Related News
2025 Transfer Conference for Counselors
Our team was grateful to have the PPM spotlighted at the 2025 Transfer Conference for Counselors as a solution to California’s higher education completion and transfer deficits. This virtual event featured speakers from throughout the California Community Colleges transfer network and addressed challenge areas in transfer pathways with high-impact practices. Click here to learn more about this event.
Chief Student Services Officers Association (CSSO) 2025
Shirley Asher and Jennifer Johnson recently presented at the CSSO 2025 Conference, showcasing how PPM supports student success with real-time guidance and a student-centered design. Highlighting its impact on Vision 2030 efforts, they demonstrated how PPM champions for our students and faculty and how the PPM Grant uplifts other state initiatives.
Office Hours
A reminder that our team is providing virtual office hours every week to answer your questions and receive guided support. We look forward to assisting you Tuesdays from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and Thursdays from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Have Questions?
Always feel free to reach us via our Interest Form or by emailing PPM-support@foundationccc.org.
Have Feedback?
We welcome your feedback as we aim to continuously improve the user experience!
