🌍 Global Learning Fest 2025 – Explore the World Virtually! ✈️

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Poster for Global Learning Fest

No passport? No problem! 🌎 Join us for Global Learning Fest 2025, sponsored by the Study Abroad Association, and experience breathtaking destinations, rich history, and vibrant cultures—all from the comfort of your home or office!

📅 Date: Monday, February 24
🎟️ FREE for all Central Piedmont students & employees

🗺️ Event Lineup: Virtual Live Tours

📍 Tour of Santiago de Compostela – The End of the Camino de Santiago
🕙 10 a.m.
➡️ Explore the final destination of the legendary Camino de Santiago pilgrimage
➡️ Discover stunning architecture, history, and cultural significance

📍 Rome by Night – A Tour of Rome’s Iconic Fountains
🕛 Noon
➡️ Experience Rome’s most famous fountains illuminated at night
➡️ Highlights include Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona

📍 Live Walking Tour – Explore the Landscapes of La Fortuna, Costa Rica
🕐 1 p.m.
➡️ Discover Costa Rica’s lush tropical forests & vibrant wildlife
➡️ Spot toucans, parrots, hummingbirds, and exotic plants 🌿🦜

🔗 REGISTER HERE to receive your Zoom link for these unforgettable experiences!

Don’t miss this chance to explore the world—virtually! 🌎✨

💻 Tech Week Spring 2025: Explore, Learn & Connect! 🚀

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Student working on the inside of a computer

Join the Technology Division for Tech Week Spring 2025, happening February 24 – 27! Whether you’re curious about coding, AI, cybersecurity, gaming, or networking with employers, there’s something for everyone in our “What the Tech Is….” series.

🎯 What’s in Store?

✔️ Meet top tech employers 🤝
✔️ Hands-on coding & AI sessions 🤖
✔️ Deep dive into cybersecurity 🔒
✔️ Explore gaming & interactive media 🎮

🔗 See schedule of events and reserve your seat today!

Don’t miss this chance to level up your tech skills, network with industry pros, and explore the future of technology! 🚀

🎓 Truist Honors Scholars Shine at National Conference in Dallas!

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Scholar giving presentationCentral Piedmont’s Truist Honors Scholars recently showcased their presentation skills and passion for research at the National Association of African American Studies & Affiliates (NAAAS) Conference in Dallas, Texas! 🌟

📢 A Platform for Research & Expression

Founded in 1992, NAAAS provides a space for faculty and students to engage in scholarly research and celebrate the contributions of Africans, African Americans, Hispanics, Latinos/as, Chicanos/as, Mexicans, Native Americans, Indigenous Peoples, Asians, and Asian Americans.

📚 Diverse & Thought-Provoking PresentationsScholar presenting

Honors Scholars, both first-time and experienced presenters, tackled a wide range of topics, including:
🔹 Climate change 🌍
🔹 The psychology of mother-daughter relationships 👩‍👧
🔹 The decline of creativity 🎨
🔹 Language barriers & communication 🗣️
🔹 Addiction & mental health 🧠
🔹 Global debt & economic impact 💰
🔹 Power dynamics in the church ⛪
🔹 The science of melanin 🔬

🏆 Scholar Reflections: Growth, Confidence & Networking

Honors scholars received high praise for their exceptional presentation skills and in-depth research on topics they are not only passionate about, but also intend to shape their careers and futures around. Many scholars are not only planning to conduct studies on these subjects, but several are already considering pursuing advanced degrees after completing their undergraduate degrees. One scholar shared, “I was nervous and excited to present at the conference, but the honors program encourages me to embrace trying new things”. 

Through the program, scholars are developing the skills to navigate academic and professional environments where educators, administrators, and experts are eager to hear their research interests, opinions, and future aspirations in addition to affirming they belong in those spaces. Scholars are networking and sharing their knowledge with pride. A second scholar said, “This program has helped me build confidence. It has taught me how to network and because of this, I can go into a room and present with confidence”. Another scholar exclaimed, “The support, empowerment, and encouragement from the honors program lets me know I am capable of achieving my educational and professional goals. The Honors program pushes me to believe in myself!”

🚀 The Truist Honors Program: Create, Engage, Connect

The Truist Honors Program at Central Piedmont provides:
✅ Intellectual & research opportunities 📚
✅ Leadership & community engagement 🌎
✅ Publication & technology skill development 💡
✅ A strong, supportive scholar community 🤝

🎉 Applications Now Open for Fall 2025!

📌 Interested in joining this dynamic program? Apply now!
🔗 Learn more & apply here

Congratulations to our Honors Scholars for representing Central Piedmont with excellence! 🎉👏

Hospitality Students Network at Carmel Country Club

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On Feb. 6, students from the hospitality management course HRM 230 Club & Resort Management visited Carmel Country Club in Charlotte.

We were treated to a wonderful visit and facility tour and had the opportunity to network with club leadership and discuss internship and employment opportunities.

In the photo on the far left is Diana Graham, an alumna from hospitality management. After visiting the club on a similar class trip in 2023, she became an intern and is currently a food and beverage manager at the club. She helped lead our tour.

Not pictured is alumna Anna Strickland, who visited with the 2024 class, became an intern, and is now employed there in food and beverage administration.

Pictured on the far right is Nicole Guy, assistant general manager of the club.

🎨 New Archives Exhibit: The Visiting Artists of Central Piedmont

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Reads, "The visiting artists of Central Piedmont" with a collage of artist photosIn addition to “Read All About It: Student Publications at Central Piedmont, 1965-2005,” the Central Piedmont Archives has unveiled a new exhibit on the third floor of Hagemeyer Library—and it’s a must-see for art lovers!

🖼️ About the Exhibit

📍 Location: Central Campus, Hagemeyer Library, 3rd Floor
📅 On View Until: End of 2025

“The Visiting Artists of Central Piedmont” explores the Visiting Artist Program, a statewide initiative launched in 1971 by the North Carolina Arts Council and the NC Community College System. This program brought talented artists to community colleges across North Carolina to offer free workshops, lectures, and performances, enriching local communities and deepening their appreciation of the arts.

✨ What You’ll See:

🎨 Artworks created by former visiting artists
📰 Newspaper clippings covering their impact
📸 Photographs & archival materials from 1971-1992
📚 Interactive components showcasing their work

This exhibit celebrates creativity, history, and the role of art in education—don’t miss it!

🎭 Experience Alvin Ailey’s Iconic Revelations – Free Dance Workshop at Central Piedmont!

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Inside the Halton Theater

Blumenthal Performing Arts and Bank of America are bringing an incredible opportunity to Central Piedmont—and it’s FREE for students, faculty, and staff! 🎉

💃 Ailey Arts in Education: Revelations Celebration Workshop

📅 Date: Saturday, February 22
⏰ Time: 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
📍 Location: Dale F. Halton Theater
🎟 Spots Available: Only 75! Sign up now!

✨ What to Expect:

✅ Learn excerpts from Alvin Ailey’s Revelations—the world’s most famous modern dance work
✅ Be guided by professional Ailey Arts in Education teaching artists
✅ Enjoy a fun, intergenerational experience—bring your friends & family!
✅ No dance experience needed—just come ready to move & be inspired!

Don’t miss this chance to celebrate movement, culture, and community with an unforgettable dance experience! 💃🏾✨

Feeling sick? Visit the Atrium Health Community Virtual Primary Clinic

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Medical practitioner looking in a patient's earIt’s germ season 🦠 If you aren’t feeling well, we can provide the care you need through Atrium Health Community Virtual Primary Clinic located on Central Piedmont’s Central Campus in the Leon Levine Health Sciences Center, room 101.

Here’s how it works:

🤒 Schedule an appointment by calling 1-844-563-5268.
📱 An Atrium Health medical assistant will meet you at Leon Levine Health Sciences building on Central Campus at the appointment time.
📖  You will be assessed and connected with a provider who can offer a diagnosis, treatment plan and prescriptions – all over video!

For more info, visit the Atrium Health website.

♻️ Cosmetology Goes Green

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Cosmetology students pose on the stairs outside the City View Center building

Big news! Central Piedmont’s Cosmetology program is officially the first in the world to partner with Pivot Point and Green Circle Salons for The Cap Series Recovery Program—taking major steps toward a more sustainable beauty industry!

🌱 What This Means:

✔️ Reducing waste in one of the largest waste-producing industries
✔️ Recycling salon waste into new products like combs, clips, and even energy
✔️ Cutting down on mannequin waste with Pivot Point’s Wig Cap Mannequins, allowing students to swap out hair instead of using multiple mannequin heads

♻️ Our Green Goals:

🌍 Recycle hair clippings
💇‍♀️ Repurpose leftover hair color
🚯 Minimize single-use salon waste

We’re committed to reducing our carbon footprint and leading the way in sustainable cosmetology education! Stay tuned as we continue making eco-friendly strides in the beauty industry.

🎓 Become a 2025-2026 Central Piedmont Student Ambassador

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Students outside, laughing

Looking for an exciting leadership opportunity that enhances your resume, communication skills, and professional network—while earning a scholarship? The Student Ambassadors Program is your chance to represent Central Piedmont and gain valuable experience!

🌟 Why Become a Student Ambassador?

✔️ Serve as a guide for prospective students
✔️ Represent Central Piedmont at community & campus events
✔️ Gain leadership & public speaking skills
✔️ Build connections with staff & professionals
✔️ Receive a scholarship each semester for your work!

📅 Attend an Interest Session!

Want to learn more? Meet current Student Ambassadors, get application tips, and find out about eligibility & commitment requirements at an upcoming interest session:

📍 Dates: February 25, 26, & 27
📌 Sign up now

Don’t miss this prestigious opportunity to grow as a leader and make an impact! Applications open February 28—start your journey today! 🚀

🍲 Recap: Soup on Sunday Served Up Warmth & Community Support!

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Collage of photos from Soup on Sunday event. Includes people and bowls of soup.On January 26, Central Piedmont’s Culinary Arts Building was filled with the delicious aroma of signature soups, fresh bread, and sweet treats as Soup on Sunday brought together some of Charlotte’s best restaurants and culinary schools—all in support of VIA Health Partners (formerly Hospice & Palliative Care Charlotte Region).

🍜 A Day of Flavor & Giving

Guests enjoyed a family-friendly soup fest, sampling a variety of handcrafted soups while admiring beautiful pottery and connecting with the community. More than just a tasting event, Soup on Sunday helped raise vital funds for hospice and bereavement services in North and South Carolina.

As a non-profit, VIA Health Partners relies on generous donors and community support to provide compassionate care to those in need. Events like Soup on Sunday make a direct impact by ensuring these services remain accessible.

💙 Thank You to Our Supporters!

A huge THANK YOU to the restaurants, culinary schools, volunteers, and attendees who made this event a success! Your support helps provide comfort, care, and dignity to families in our region.

💡 Faculty Spotlight: Jennifer Perkins – Shaping the Future of Education

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Jennifer Perkins headshot in black and white

From the moment Jennifer Perkins joined Central Piedmont, she knew: “This is where I wanted to be.” 🌟 Now, 20 years later, as the Program Chair for K-12 Education, her passion for nurturing future teachers is stronger than ever.

📚 Leading the Way in Teacher Education

Perkins has played a key role in launching Central Piedmont’s Teacher Prep and Residency programs, which are preparing North Carolina’s first licensed elementary school teachers through a community college pathway. Since fall 2023, the residency program has grown from 4 to 60 students, while the Teacher Prep program now serves 320 students!

💬 “When I see my residency students getting closer to licensure, it makes my heart swell with pride and joy. Knowing I’ve made a difference in their lives and the community is incredibly rewarding.”

🏆 Career Highlights & Achievements

🔹 Started as an elementary school teacher before transitioning to higher education
🔹 Earned multiple college awards, including:

  • Eyes on You Award (2017)
  • Mary W. & Wilton Parr Faculty Teaching Award (2022)
  • Tony & Beth Zeiss Award for Faculty (2024)

🌟 Beyond the Classroom

Outside of teaching, Perkins is a dedicated mom, fitness enthusiast, home cook, book club member, and volunteer. She’s also a diehard Philadelphia Eagles fan! 🦅

Through it all, her students remain at the center of her work. She collaborates with local schools, partners with fellow educators, and continually strives for excellence. 👏

🏁 Finish the Semester Strong 💪

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Group of students sitting on the stairs inside the Parr CenterYou’ve put in so much hard work, and we’re proud of your progress! 🌟 As you power through the rest of the semester, remember—you’re not alone. Central Piedmont has resources to support your academic success, well-being, and personal needs.

💙 Wellness Center – Prioritize Your Well-Being

Feeling stressed? Need support? The Wellness Center offers a safe space and essential resources, including:
✔️ Counseling & stress management
✔️ Emergency grants, housing, & food assistance
✔️ Healthcare, dental, & vision services
✔️ Professional clothing closet & benefits counseling

📍 Open Monday – Friday, 8 AM – 6 PM | Complete the Wellness Screener to access services.

📚 Center for Academic Success and Excellence (CASE) – Free Academic Support

Struggling with a class? Need help with a big assignment? The Center for Academic Success and Excellence (CASE) provides free tutoring for math, science, and writing courses. Don’t wait until finals—get help now!

🌍 International Student Services – Specialized Support

The Kal Kardous International Student Services Center offers guidance on:
🌎 Immigration-related questions
📖 Campus resources & student involvement
📄 F-1 students: Always keep a physical copy of your I-20 form

🚀 Keep Going—You’ve Got This!

The finish line is in sight! Stay connected, use available resources, and take it one step at a time. We believe in you, and we’re here to help! 💙

Join the First Gen Student Leadership Academy 🎓

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Three students posing with first-gen student signsAre you a first-generation college student looking to build leadership skills, connect with peers, and grow your confidence? The Office of Mentoring and Coaching is excited to launch the First Gen Student Leadership Academy—and YOU’RE invited!

💡 What’s the First Gen Student Leadership Academy?

✅ Open to all first-generation Central Piedmont students
✅ Develop leadership skills to help you succeed in college & beyond
✅ Connect with mentors & fellow first-gen students
✅ Gain confidence & career-building experience

📌 Interested? Register now!

💬 Have questions? Contact Courtney Lowery for more info!

Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to learn, lead, and make an impact! 🚀

💖 February is for Self-Love! 7 Ways to Care for Yourself This Month 💕

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Black and white photo of a student speaking with a staff member in their office, across a deskThis month is the perfect time to celebrate love—not just for others, but for yourself too! 💡 Self-love means valuing your own well-being and happiness, and Counseling Services encourages you to take time to practice it.

🌿 7 Ways to Practice Self-Love:

  1. Prioritize your well-being. Eat well, sleep enough, and move your body! Need support? Students can access Counseling Services and have access to the many services offered by the Wellness Center.
  2. Be kind to yourself. Mistakes happen! Practice self-compassion and avoid harsh self-judgment.
  3. Avoid unhealthy comparisons. Social media can amplify stress—unplug when needed to focus on your journey.
  4. Set boundaries. It’s okay to say “no” and protect your energy.
  5. Forgive yourself. Let go of past regrets and use mindfulness to stay present.
  6. Choose supportive people. Surround yourself with loving, uplifting relationships and let go of those that don’t serve you.
  7. Shift your mindset. Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations and focus on growth.

🌟 Need more self-care tips? Check out this article for more ways to practice self-love!

🧘‍♀️ Relax & Recharge with Mindfulness & Subtle Yoga

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students doing yogaTake a break and de-stress with Mindfulness & Subtle Yoga—a gentle, beginner-friendly practice open to students, faculty, and staff! 🌿✨ No experience needed!

Upcoming Sessions

🗓️ Tue., Mar. 4 | Tue., Apr. 8 | Tue., May 6
⏰ 11 a.m.–Noon
📍Harper Campus, Harper IV, Room 102

🔗Join Us!

Breathe, stretch, and find your calm—see you on the mat! 🧘‍♂️💙

🔒 Stay Safe Online: Important Security Reminders from ITS

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Student working on a laptop, looking stressedCentral Piedmont will never request users to provide their passwords or passcodes (e.g., multi-factor authentication codes) through phone, email, or text. Under no circumstances should you share codes with others or enter any codes that are given to you in DUO or Microsoft Authenticator. 

To protect student accounts following recent security compromises, ITS has implemented restrictions on the number of emails a student can send within a specified timeframe. These limitations help prevent unauthorized access and reduce the risk for phishing or spam-related activity. 

Lastly, using your Central Piedmont password on non-Central Piedmont websites increases the risk of compromise. To protect your account and sensitive information, please avoid reusing your Central Piedmont password on any other website.  

If you have any questions, please contact the ITS Service Desk via the ITS client portal.   

Thank you for your cooperation.  

🖤 Black History Month Presents: “African Americans and Labor”

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Divine 9 poster presentationsCentral Piedmont is proud to celebrate Black History Month with a special program, “African Americans and Labor,” running throughout February across four campuses. The program will feature exhibits and demonstrations highlighting Carver College, African American fraternities and sororities, culinary arts, baking and pastry arts, cosmetology and fashion, and authors.

What you can expect (event descriptions):

✔️ Carver College Exhibit – Learn about Carver College’s impact on African American achievement
✔️ Divine 9: Black Fraternities & Sororities – Explore their history and legacy in labor & leadership
✔️ Cosmetology & Fashion – See the evolution of Black beauty & style through history
✔️ Culinary Arts & Baking & Pastry Arts – Discover how Black chefs & cooks shaped American cuisine
✔️ Meet the Authors – Join discussions with local Black authors on the impact of African Americans in the labor force

Event schedule by campus location:

📍Harris Campus

  • Feb. 10-14: Divine 9
  • Feb. 17-21: Cosmetology & Fashion- mannequin displays
  • Feb. 26, Noon-1 p.m.: Baking & Pastry Arts Program

📍Central Campus

  • Feb. 10-14 | Parr Building: Cosmetology & Fashion- student posters
  • Feb. 17-21, Noon-2 p.m. | Parr Building: Divine 9- tables and posters
  • Feb. 26, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Parr Library: Carver College Exhibit

📍Cato Campus

  • Feb. 10-14, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Gorelick Gallery: Carver College Exhibit
  • Feb. 17, 9:30-11 a.m. | Annable 330: Meet the Authors
  • Feb. 24-28, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Gorelick Gallery: Divine 9- tables and posters

📍Levine Campus

  • Feb. 17-21 | Levine III Library: Carver College Exhibit

📲 For more information, contact Dr. Alecia Bracy at 704-330-6095.

💇‍♀️ Celebrating African American Women in the Workforce Through Hairstyles & History

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Cosmetology students posing with completed hairstylesThis Black History Month, Central Piedmont Cosmetology students are honoring African American women in the workforce by recreating their iconic hairstyles—blending beauty with history!

Using popular films as inspiration, students are not only showcasing these timeless looks but also telling the powerful stories of the women behind them. This project highlights the evolution of beauty standards, resilience, and impact of African American women in labor and leadership.

🎬 Hairstyle Inspirations & Their Stories:

✨ Madam C.J. Walker (Self Made) – The first female self-made millionaire in America, she revolutionized the Black haircare industry.
✨ Dorothy Vaughn (Hidden Figures) – A pioneering NASA mathematician whose work helped launch the U.S. into space.
✨ Captain Noelle Campbell (The Six Triple Eight) – A leader in the first and only all-Black, all-female battalion in WWII.

By bringing these looks to life, students are celebrating beauty, empowerment, and history—one hairstyle at a time!

Skilled Trades Connect: Your Opportunity to Get Hired! 💼

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Students and employers engaging

Looking for a job, internship, or part-time work in the skilled trades industry? Don’t miss Skilled Trades Connect, Central Piedmont’s annual hiring event, where top employers are ready to meet and recruit students like YOU!

📅 Event Details:

📍 Location: Harper Campus, Harper IV Lobby
🗓 Date: Wednesday, February 26
⏰ Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

💡 Who’s Hiring?

Employers are looking for students in these Skilled Trades programs:

✔️ Advertising + Graphic Design
✔️ Air Conditioning, Heating, & Refrigeration
✔️ Architectural Technology
✔️ Construction Management
✔️ Electrical Systems
✔️ Interior Design
✔️ Non-Destructive Examination
✔️ Sustainability Technologies
✔️ Welding

🔎 Get Prepared!

🔹 Update your resume – Highlight your skills & experience
🔹 Dress professionally – Make a great first impression
🔹 Research employers – Know who’s hiring and what they’re looking for

📌 For a full list of employers & prep resources, visit: skilledtrades.cpcc.edu.