FAFSA Day: A Step Towards Your Future

Levine campus students

Central Piedmont Community College is excited to announce an invaluable opportunity for its students and their parents. We are hosting a special FAFSA Day, in collaboration with the College Foundation of North Carolina, designed to provide crucial assistance in securing your financial aid. Here’s what you need to know:

Event Overview

  • Date: Saturday, January 27, 2024
  • Time: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
  • Location: Levine Campus, Levine Building 1, Room 2100

About the Event

  • This event is an excellent chance for one-on-one or small group support in completing your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
  • We welcome all Central Piedmont students and their parents to register for this free event.
  • Our expert team from the Financial Aid Department, in collaboration with the College Foundation of North Carolina, will be there to guide you through the process.

Preparation for the Event

  • If you still need to, please create your StudentAid.gov Account (formerly FSA ID) before the event. This will ensure a smooth and quick login process, allowing you to submit your FAFSA efficiently at the event.
  • We recommend using this handy cheat sheet to keep your account information organized. 

What to Bring for FAFSA Completion

  • Bringing the necessary items will expedite the completion of your FAFSA. Make sure to have all your required documents ready for the event.

Central Piedmont is committed to helping you navigate your educational journey. This FAFSA Day is a step towards ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder your academic aspirations. We look forward to seeing you there and assisting you in unlocking the doors to your future!

Free Tax Preparation Available for Eligible Students

Central High SchoolSingle Stop has partnered with the Central Piedmont accounting and finance program for the current tax season to offer free Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) on Central Campus. You could qualify for this free tax preparation resource if your household income in 2023 was $80,000 or less.

  • Students, staff, and faculty (including immediate family members) can receive free tax preparation.

From Jan. 29 to April 12, tax preparation appointments will occur in person at Central High 101 on Central Campus. Walk-ins will be accepted based on availability.

Please visit the Single Stop web page for available hours and to schedule your appointment.

Parr Arts and Humanities Series present Kat Vellos, “The Secret to Cultivating Better Friendships”

kat vellosKat Vellos
“The Secret to Cultivating Better Friendships”
February 8, 2024
7 p.m.
Parr Theater, Central Campus

What is “social health,” and why is it better for you than eating broccoli and doing pushups? Why do 61% of Americans report feeling lonely on a regular basis, even though they have 15,237 notifications buzzing on their phone? Why is making friends as an adult harder than trying to file your taxes during a heavy metal concert?

Kat Vellos, author of We Should Get Together: The Secret to Cultivating Better Friendships, will share solutions to these and many more connection conundrums on February 8, 2024, at Central Piedmont Community College. In this engaging, educational, and humorous presentation, you’ll learn why connection in the digital age can be so tough (it’s not just in your head!), and you’ll walk away with clear, exciting action steps for creating more fruitful friendships in your life, no matter your age or life stage.

Free tickets for students with a valid student ID
Use code: FREE

For the Love of the Game – The History of Athletics at Central Piedmont Community College

for the love of the game exhibitEver wonder about the history of our sports teams? What about the origins of our Tiger mascot? The latest exhibition from the Central Piedmont Archives is officially open to the public!

“For the Love of the Game – The History of Athletics at Central Piedmont Community College” explores the various intercollegiate and intramural sports previously offered at the college, specifically basketball, cheerleading, soccer, and football. Artifacts on display were accumulated over the years from public donations and internal donations from Student Life, Student Engagement, and Facilities Services. 

To view this exhibition in person, please visit the “History Hallway” on the third floor of the Hagemeyer Library, around the corner from the Archives Department. Viewers can also access the digital exhibition. 

This exhibition will be on display through December 2024. We hope you enjoy this display and the school spirit it embodies!

Blood Drive Coming to All Campuses

one blood bus

Did you know that one blood donation can save up to three lives? You have greater powers than you know! Please consider donating blood at the upcoming blood drive on your designated campus this week and next week. Campus-specific drives are listed below. All donors will receive a $20 eGift Card, a OneBlood long-sleeve t-shirt, and a Wellness checkup.

Appointments are strongly encouraged by signing up in advance using the links below. To donate blood, a student must be 16 and over. Students 16 years of age will need a consent form signed by a guardian. Students 17 years of age do not need a consent form.

  • Central Campus – Jan. 17 | Overcash Circle, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
    Register here
  • Harris Campus – Jan. 18 | Harris I Circle, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
    Register here
  • Merancas Campus – Jan. 19 | Claytor Driveway/Pad, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
    Register here
  • Levine Campus – Jan. 22 | Levine I Fountain Circle, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
    Register here
  • Harper Campus – Jan. 23 | Harper I Lot B, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
    Register here
  • Cato Campus – Jan. 26 | Front of Cato III, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
    Register here

2024 MLK Celebration & Brunch

MLK CelebrationThe 2024 MLK Celebration & Brunch will take place on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Program highlights include spoken word performances, musical selections, and a motivational guest speaker. Following the program, we invite all attendees to enjoy a catered brunch together.

This event is open to any Central Piedmont student, faculty, or staff member.

Students attending the event will receive 2 hours of service, provided they stay for the duration of the program.

Date: January 17, 2024
Time: 10am-12pm
Location: Overcash Building, Tate Hall

Secure your spot by registering HERE.

For any inquiries or to learn more, please contact Whitney Williams at whitney.williams@cpcc.edu or call 704.330.6745.

Intangible Words by Marge Loudon Moody

Marge Loudon MoodyThe Bill and Patty Gorelick Galleries at Central Piedmont Community College are pleased to announce a new exhibition by Marge Loudon Moody. Moody is a Professor Emerita of Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC, where she taught for over 30 years. Widely exhibited both nationally and internationally, Moody’s work exists in private and public collections worldwide.

‘Intangible Words’ broadly investigates environments inspired by Moody’s travels and imagination. Through the use of bright colors, abstract forms, and continuous reworking of the composition, Moody creates the “essential” feeling of certain environments. Non-representational imagery utilizes the “essential” nature in order to illuminate the unseen or intangible spirit of the subject. “Subject matter may serve as a metaphor for intangible ideas. The work examines boundaries, addresses the fragility of existence, of presence, of absence, and of memory,” says Moody.

Moody will also serve as this year’s Juror for Central Piedmont’s ‘2024 Annual Juried Student Art Show.’

WHEN: Traveling Exhibition Dates
Levine Campus (Levine 2): January 1 – May 7
Central Campus (North Classroom Building): May 13 – July 2
Cato Campus (Cato 3): August 5 – December 31

WHERE:
Cato Campus: Cato 3, First Floor, 8121 Grier Road, Charlotte, NC 28215
Levine Campus: Levine 2, Ground Floor, 2800 Campus Ridge Rd, Matthews, NC 28105
Central Campus: North Classroom Building, First Floor, 1320 Sam Ryburn Walk, Charlotte, NC 28204

Fragments by Tina Alberni

Tina Alberni Home ShelterThe Bill and Patty Gorelick Galleries will travel a special exhibition of Tina Alberni’s artwork between Central, Cato, and Levine Campuses for the 2024 academic year.

Alberni derived this series of works from the impact of climate change and the harm created by aspects of technological development and progress. With a deep belief that all living things possess an intrinsic value and are not simply human beings, Alberni challenges the viewer to consider topics such as how natural disasters, war, and social disparity contribute to the endangerment and physical displacement of all living things.

Alberni uses her new exhibition ‘Fragments’ to illustrate the narrative of fragmented lives and irreversible damage both visually and physically. In contrast to the hopeless narrative of destruction, Alberni seeks to use her artwork to create a positive, hopeful spirit for the future. Alberni assembles objects and layers in her work in a brightly colored, harmonious fashion, which invites the viewer in for a deeper contemplation of each composition.

Alberni’s work will be on display at Central Piedmont for 2024 and will be part of the Gorelick Gallery’s traveling artwork series.

WHEN: Traveling Exhibition Dates
Central Campus (North Classroom): January 1 – May 7
Cato Campus (Cato 3): May 13 – July 2
Levine Campus (Levine 2): August 5 – December 31

WHERE:
Central Campus: North Classroom Building
First Floor, 1320 Sam Ryburn Walk, Charlotte, NC 28204

Cato Campus: Cato 3
First Floor, 8121 Grier Road, Charlotte, NC 28215

Levine Campus: Levine 2
Ground Floor, 2800 Campus Ridge Rd, Matthews, NC 28105

Land/mark by Kenny Nguyen

Untitled by Kenny-NguyenCentral Piedmont’s Dove Gallery will host a new exhibition by esteemed Vietnamese artist Kenny Nguyen. Born in Vietnam and with a background in fashion design, Nguyen exhibits his work across the US and internationally.

As a Vietnamese immigrant now living and working as an artist in the United States, much of Nguyen’s work explores ideas related to cultural identity, displacement, reconciling with the past, and the artistic fusion of Vietnamese and American cultures.

Nguyen uses silk in tribute to his Vietnamese culture, deconstructs it into strips, and then dips it in paint. Thousands of these strips create sculptural works of art that Nguyen calls “deconstructed paintings.” The action of deconstruction and reconstruction, and transformation of the fine silk into a sculptural painting, echoes Nguyen’s journey of forging his own identity while continuously incorporating all of the unique elements that make him who he is today.

Each work of art by Nguyen is carefully arranged and pinned into place. As a result, each installation never looks the same twice. The folds and drapes take on a three-dimensional form, undulating like waves across the wall. While stationary, each piece has an element of movement as the delicate strips of fabric catch slight drafts of air from ventilation or passers-by. These thoughtful and intentional artistic interventions by Nguyen engage the viewer visually and invite them ‘Land/mark’ will feature new works by Nguyen as well as an interactive workshop for students to see and learn Nguyen’s process of creating deconstructed paintings.

WHEN: January 8 – March 15
WORKSHOPS: January 24 and March 14
WHERE: Central Piedmont Central Campus
Parr Center Student Union
1201 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204

A Celebration of Art

Sea Scape artThe Bill and Patty Gorelick Galleries will open a new exhibition at Harris Conference Center featuring the best of the College’s permanent art collection alongside featured artists Mario Loprete, Sheridan Hathaway, and Andres Palacios.

Works from the College’s collection exhibit a variety of works from former Central Piedmont students, with a special focus on Loprete, a mixed media artist, and ceramic artists Hathaway and Palacios. “A Celebration of Art” is certain to deliver a diverse selection of 2D and 3D artwork for the 2024 year.

WHEN: January – December

WHERE: Harris Campus Bill and Patty Gorelick Gallery
3210 CPCC Harris Campus Dr, Charlotte, NC 28208

Archival Photos Reimagined

Archive PhotosIn a joint effort between the Central Piedmont Archives and Art Galleries, students and staff came together to recreate photographs from the Central Piedmont Archives. Using the photographs as inspiration, each participant artistically reimagined a selected photograph using any media of their choice.

The Gorelick Galleries will exhibit this collection of works on Cato, Levine and Central Campuses as part of a traveling exhibition series. With an emphasis on College history and student engagement the exhibition celebrates the some of the best moments in the College’s history and in turn shines the spotlight back on students.

WHEN: Traveling Exhibition Dates
Cato Campus (Cato 3): January 1 – May 7
Levine Campus (Levine 2): May 13 – July 2
Central Campus (North Classroom Building): August 5 – December 31

WHERE:
Cato Campus: Cato 3, First Floor, 8121 Grier Road, Charlotte, NC 28215
Levine Campus: Levine 2, Ground Floor, 2800 Campus Ridge Rd, Matthews, NC 28105
Central Campus: North Classroom Building, First Floor, 1320 Sam Ryburn Walk, Charlotte, NC 28204

Campus Store Holiday Hours

image of bookstore entranceAs the winter season approaches, staying informed about the Campus Store hours is important. Here’s a quick update for your convenience:

  • Week Before Winter Break:
    • Mon., Dec. 18, 2023, through Thurs., Dec. 21, 2023
    • Open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Winter Break Closure:
    • Fri., Dec. 22, 2023, through Mon., Jan. 1, 2024
    • Stores will be closed for winter break.
  • Resuming Regular Hours:
    • Starting Tues., Jan. 2, 2024
    • Open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Please make a note of these dates and plan your store visits accordingly.

Introducing The Art Hub at Elizabeth Ross Gallery

Art HubCentral Piedmont is delighted to announce the opening of The Art Hub, a dynamic new space dedicated to fostering creativity within our student and staff community. Mark your calendars for the inaugural opening on Jan. 8!

What to Expect at The Art Hub:

  • Photography Studio: A space for amateur and seasoned photographers to capture their visions.
  • Creative Spaces: Abundant room to spread out and dive into your artistic projects, whether sketching, painting, sculpting, or engaging in any form of visual art.
  • Workshops: Participate in various workshops to help you hone your skills and learn new techniques across different mediums.
  • Meeting Spaces: Collaborative areas where you can brainstorm, critique, and share ideas with peers and mentors.
  • Exhibition Opportunities: A year-round platform to showcase your work, giving visibility to the diverse talents within our college.

The Art Hub is more than just a space; it’s a community. It’s where your ideas can take shape, and art is made, shared, and celebrated. 

So bring your ideas, your projects, and your passion. The Art Hub is your new canvas at Central Piedmont. Let’s make something amazing together.

Central Destress Week

Therapy Dog

As the end of the semester draws near, we can all use some stress relief. There is no better way to destress than a visit with a furry friend.

We will have therapy dogs on Central Campus in the Health Careers building 1st floor lobby on the following dates:

  • Wed., Nov. 29, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • Mon., Dec. 4, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • Tues., Dec. 5, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Dec. 6, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

We hope to see you there.

Fall Graduation Fair

silver and gold streamers fly through the air above graduates heads in the arena.The Fall Graduation Fair is happening now! This important event is scheduled from Nov. 28, 2023, to Nov. 30, 2023, and will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily.

The Graduation Fair is essential for students to participate in the December graduation ceremony. This is where you can pick up your graduation caps and gowns, a significant step towards your big day.

Location Details:
Campus Store
Central Campus, Hall Building, First Floor
1112 Charlottetowne Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28204

Don’t miss this opportunity to prepare for your graduation ceremony!

Sunlight and Solstice

Sunlight and SolsticeCentral Piedmont Dance Theatre will present its concert series Sunlight and Solstice at The Parr Center Theatre on Nov 29, 30, and Dec. 1 at noon. The program will include Tracie Chan’s new children’s ballet, “The Snowman,” based on the classic children’s story. The other two works on the program are by two of the four pioneers of American Modern Dance, Martha Graham, and Charles Weidman. Kim Jones, UNCC faculty, will stage Graham’s “Adorations,” and Clay Daniel will stage excerpts of Weidman’s “Christmas Oratorio.” For you history buffs, this will be the first time a Weidman and a Graham work have appeared on the same program in over 70 years! This concert series has something for everyone – and is not to be missed!

Central Piedmont Students attend for free with a current student ID.

Location:

  • New Theatre

Show Times:

  • Wed., Nov. 29 at 12 p.m.
  • Thurs., Nov. 30 at 12 p.m.
  • Fri., Dec. 1 at 12 p.m.

Finals Game Plan

student studyingGet ready to tackle finals with confidence!

  • Tuesday, November 21
  • 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
  • Central Campus – Parr Center First Floor Lobby
  • Strategy sessions and free giveaways

It’s the perfect opportunity to devise your study strategy and boost your prep with helpful freebies. Don’t miss out on how to optimize your finals week approach!

Networking Opportunities

career fairMark your calendars for the final Work-it Wednesday of the semester on November 29! This is a prime chance for you to connect with future employers and dive into the inner workings of various companies. Learn more about these and other career-building events on the Career Services Events Page.

Catch up with these recruiters from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

  • Best Impression Caterers at Cato Campus – Cato III, First Floor
  • Jetstream Ground Services at Central Campus – Parr Center First Floor
  • Autobell Car Wash at Levine Campus – Levine III, Second Floor
  • YMCA of Greater Charlotte at Merancas Campus – Merancas IV, First Floor

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to expand your professional network!