By Dejanique Calloway, reporter

Ty Upshaw, Army veteran, graduated from PPCC in May, 2017 with his AGS degree, but he likes it so much here, he came back to seek another degree–this time with a definite plan: he’s going to obtain an Associates in Business Administration and open a jazz club in Colorado Springs.

“Colorado Springs doesn’t have a jazz scene,” he said. “I want to be able to share my passion with those around me and provide an insight to this artistic style of music.”

Born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida, Upshaw’s love for jazz sprung at a young age.

“Jazz has been a big part of my life. My family’s love of the instrumental music rubbed off on me,” Upshaw said. “It helps me escape the day to day rigors of life.”

With a drive to expand his horizons, Upshaw joined the U.S. Army in 1994, where he served for 21 years as human resource specialist.

After retiring at Fort Carson in 2015, he decided to pursue a higher education at PPCC.

To enhance his college experience, while here Upshaw participated in several campaigns throughout the community and held several positions within student government, including president.

This year, in alignment with his business plans, Upshaw is student government treasurer.

“Student government became my family. The support we give one another is what influenced my decision to return to PPCC,”  Upshaw said.

Upshaw, who wants to blend his love for music, business and people, plans to open his club in the near future.