🎓🌐 Celebrating Scholars of Global Distinction! 🏅🎉

The Center for Global Engagement is thrilled to honor students who are completing the North Carolina Scholars of Global Distinction Program in the upcoming spring and summer terms of 2024.

global distinction students

Here’s what you need to know:

  • 🗓️ Capstone Recognition Ceremony
    • Date: Fri., Apr. 26, at 1 p.m.
    • Location: Central Campus, Parr Center Library Event Space, Room 2160
  • 🌍 About the Ceremony
    • Celebrate the journey of our capstone students becoming global citizens.
    • Watch as they receive honor cords for graduation.
    • Witness the presentation of the completion certificate from World View at UNC Chapel Hill.
  • 🥂 Festivities to Follow
    • Enjoy refreshments and a time of celebration after the ceremony.
  • RSVP Required
  • Spread the word and encourage peers to attend in support of our scholars!

Mark your calendars and join us to applaud the achievements of our dedicated students. We can’t wait to see you on Apr. 26! 📆👏

Graduation Cake Sale

Dear Students,

The Central Piedmont Baking and Pastry Arts department is excited to offer graduation cakes and cupcakes for pre-order now through Wed., May 1, 2024, at midnight. Pick-ups will be just days before graduation, available only May 6-7 from 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. on Harris Campus.

cakes

You can order via the website. We encourage you to check out our social media and try us! Your support will provide us with enormous encouragement for our new venture.

cupcakes

You can support us by following us on social media :
Instagram: @Tasty.traditions.clt
Facebook: @Tasty traditions

Thank you for your time. We look forward to seeing you soon,

The Students of Tasty Traditions Bakehouse and Takeout

Final Week for Tasty Traditions Pre-Order – Asian Week

Dear Students,

The Central Piedmont Baking and Pastry Arts department is very excited to continue offering meal service and baked goods available on Harris Campus! Our business, called “Tasty Traditions”, is not just about food, but about our students’ heritage and traditions being shown through our love of all things pastry and culinary. We will be offering daily pre-fixe meals available via pre-order Monday-Thursday. Then, an end-of-week bake sale each Thursday. Additionally, students and staff on the City View campus are eligible for meal delivery daily at 12:00pm, so you can receive your items without leaving the area during your busy schedules.

Tasty Traditions studentsCurrently, we’re offering our Asian menu, which you can order online. This will be our final week of pre-order sales, so don’t miss out! We encourage you to check out our social media and give us a try! Your support will provide us with enormous encouragement for our new venture. Limited a la carte meals are available daily at Harris Campus!

You can support us by following us on social media :
Instagram: @Tasty.traditions.clt
Facebook: @Tasty traditions

Thank you for your time. We look forward to seeing you soon,

The Students of Tasty Traditions Bakehouse and Takeout

Employee Spotlight 🔦 Ken Collins

Ken CollinsKen Collins has been synonymous with the Automotive Systems Technology program throughout his 25-year tenure at Central Piedmont.

His history with the college stretches back even longer, though. In 1987, during a career change, Collins began taking courses at Central Piedmont, eventually earning his associate degree in 1990.

Collins would eventually become department chair, coordinate the Toyota Motor Corporation Technician Training and Education Network (T-TEN), and help establish the Tesla START program in 2018, a 12-week automotive technician training program designed to provide students with the skills necessary for job placement as service technicians at Tesla Service Centers across North America.

A three-time teaching excellence award winner, Collins also made several television appearances for the college, including a segment called “This is for Your Car” and an appearance on a CBS morning show about flooded cars.

“I have always enjoyed working at Central Piedmont,” Collins said. “We are allowed to utilize the best of the best tools that help us bring vehicle technology to these young students.”

Collins has enjoyed visiting shops and seeing his graduates work in the field. The relationship with one of those graduates, Nana Danso, helped bring Tesla to the college. ⭐

🌍 Join Us in the Fight Against World Hunger!

volunteers packing meals

Ready to make a difference and contribute to a global cause? The Mentoring/Coaching and Student Engagement offices at Central Piedmont are thrilled to present an extraordinary opportunity for you to participate in the Rise Against Hunger Meal Kit Assembly program!

🤝 About the Event:
Join hands with fellow students, faculty, and staff to assemble meal kits for communities in need. By participating, you’ll impact lives, forge connections, and create lasting memories.

🍽️ About Rise Against Hunger:
Rise Against Hunger is a global organization dedicated to eradicating hunger by providing nutritious meals worldwide. At Central Piedmont, we believe in community strength and giving back, so we’ve partnered with Rise Against Hunger for this impactful event on our campus.

📅 Event Details:

  • Date: Thurs., April 25
  • Time: 1 p.m.
  • Location: Worrell Gym, Central Campus

💪 How to Join:
Ready to be part of this meaningful endeavor? Reserve your spot now before space runs out! Sign up through the link below and secure your place in this opportunity to make a positive change.

Sign up here for Central Piedmont Rise Against Hunger

🌟 Together, We Can Make a Difference!
Let’s unite to rise against hunger and build a world where everyone can access nutritious food. We can’t wait to see you at the Rise Against Hunger Meal Kit Assembly event!

Tasty Traditions – Baking & Pastry Program Takeout & Bakehouse

Tasty TraditionsDear Students,

The Central Piedmont Baking and Pastry Arts department is very excited to welcome you to our pop-up meal service and bakehouse, which are available on Harris Campus! Our “Tasty Traditions” business is not just about food but our students’ heritage and traditions, shown through our love of pastry and culinary. We will offer daily pre-fixe meals available via pre-order Monday-Thursday with pick-up times from 10am-1:30pm. Additionally, students and staff on the City View campus are eligible for meal delivery daily at 12:00pm Monday-Thursday, so you can receive your items without leaving the area during your busy schedules. We will also have an end-of-week bake sale for pre-orders each Thursday. Limited a la carte meals and treats will be available daily at Harris Campus!

Currently, we’re offering our Latin American menu, which you can order via the QR code in the flyer or the following link: order.yourmenu.com/cpccaspirebisto. We encourage you to check out our social media and try us! Your support will provide us with enormous encouragement for our new venture.

You can support us by following us on social media:
Instagram: @Tasty.traditions.clt
Facebook: @Tasty traditions

We look forward to seeing you soon,

The Students of Tasty Traditions Bakehouse and Takeout

From Piano Prodigy to Future Radio Star: Will Thames’ Inspirational Journey Shines Bright”

Will ThamesWill Thames, a 22-year-old from Charlotte, NC, shares his inspiring journey at Central Piedmont!⭐ Will highlights his aspirations and the role Central Piedmont has played in his educational and personal growth. As a Myers Park High School graduate, Will chose Central Piedmont to pave his path toward a future in radio broadcasting and music, drawn by the college’s diverse course offerings and the prospect of transferring to Appalachian State University.

Will’s passion for music, particularly piano, has been a guiding light in his life since the age of 5. Inspired by legends like Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles, he dreams of carving out a career in radio broadcasting and becoming a professional musician. “What I want to do with my degree is pursue a career in radio broadcasting,” Will shares.🎹

Despite not yet being involved in clubs or organizations at Central Piedmont, Will’s dedication to his studies and music speaks volumes. His advice to future students is profound yet simple: “Come with an open mind and to learn new and exciting things. It will go a long way toward your future.” He believes firmly that the foundation for a bright future starts with the opportunities grasped today.😃

Will’s encounter with Stevie Wonder nine years ago in Charlotte remains a pivotal moment in his life, fuelling his ambition to follow in the footsteps of his idols. His admiration for other blind musicians, especially Matthew Whitaker, underscores a deep connection to artists who’ve navigated similar challenges, highlighting the unique and shared experiences that bind them. 💫

Join the Meck Mile Fun Next to Central Campus on May 25th! 🏃‍♀️🎉

Get ready for a day of energy, excitement, and community spirit! The Meck Mile, presented by Albemarle, is set to take off next to Central Piedmont’s Central Campus. This event isn’t just a race; it’s a celebration for all, perfectly tailored for walkers, runners, and everyone in between!

MeckMile LogoMeck Mile course

Event Details:

  • Date: Sat., May 25
  • Finish Line Festivities: Cross into Memorial Stadium to a party with a beer garden, live music, a kids’ area, and more.
  • Free for Kids: Young runners, 13 and under, can join the race without charge when they sign up before the event day.

Special Perks:

  • Discount Offer: Use the promo code in your college email by Sun., Apr. 14, for an exclusive registration discount.
  • Online Registration: Ready to lace up? Visit the Meck Mile website to secure your spot.

Stay Connected:

  • Social Media: Keep up with the latest updates by following the Meck Mile on Instagram and Facebook.

A Mile for All: Whether you’re sprinting, strolling, or cheering, the Meck Mile is about bringing our community together, one step at a time. Don’t miss out on the fun next to Central Piedmont – because this is one day, one mile, for everyone! 🎶🍻👟

🎉 Celebrate Charlotte’s Rich History at the Free Charlotte History Festival 📚

festivalCentral Piedmont Community College is proud to be part of the exciting Charlotte History Festival, hosted by Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation, celebrating its 50th anniversary. This special event promises a journey through Charlotte’s vibrant history, featuring local artists, live music, delectable food and beverages, and much more. Join us at Independence Park for an educational and fun-filled day!

Festival Details:

  • Date: Sat., Apr. 20, 2024
  • Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Location: Independence Park, 300 Hawthorne Lane, Charlotte, NC 28204
  • Admission: Free for all attendees

Why Attend?

  • Educational Programming: In collaboration with the Trail of History and various local partners, including Central Piedmont, the festival offers a rich array of history programming and education.
  • Community Outreach: Engage with community outreach organizations and learn more about Charlotte’s local initiatives and projects.
  • Cultural Experience: Enjoy live performances by local artists and musicians, adding a lively ambiance to the historical exploration.
  • Food and Beverages: Savor delicious local cuisine and refreshing beverages as you stroll through the festival.

Highlights:

  • Local History: Discover the stories and milestones that shaped Charlotte, brought to life by historians and local experts.
  • Art and Music: Experience Charlotte’s cultural vibrancy through live music performances and art displays.
  • Community Engagement: Connect with fellow community members and organizations in a celebration of local heritage and pride.

For more information about the Charlotte History Festival, please visit the Charlotte Trail of History.

🩺 Enhance Your Well-being with Healthcare Services 🚑

virtual clinicCentral Piedmont Community College is committed to ensuring every community member can access comprehensive healthcare services. Whether pursuing your studies or being a valued part of our wider community, these healthcare services are designed to support your and your family’s health and wellness needs.

Available Healthcare Services:

  • Atrium Health’s Women’s Care Drive to Thrive: Experience compassionate support and essential services for women through this innovative mobile unit, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all who visit.
  • Atrium Health Community-Based Virtual Care: Combat minor illnesses with ease using our online care options. Quick, convenient, and hassle-free, it’s healthcare at your fingertips.
  • Central Piedmont Dental Clinic: Maintain a healthy, bright smile with our affordable dental services, including teeth cleanings and other essential dental care.
  • Central Piedmont Eye Clinic: Access comprehensive eye care services without straining your budget. Our clinic offers thorough eye exams, and uninsured patients within our community are eligible to receive a free pair of glasses.

Learn More:
Please visit our website for more information about these vital healthcare services.

Central Piedmont is here to support your health and academic success. We encourage you to take advantage of these services designed for your well-being.

Participate in a Central Piedmont Focus Group

Counselor is a whiteboard and talks with people who are seated.We want to hear from you! Central Piedmont Communications, Marketing, and Public Relations invite you to participate in a focus group.

  • We value your insight and wish to 📣 hear your perspective before we launch our next advertising campaign.
  • You are invited to participate in an in-person focus group, which will be held at multiple campuses 🏫.
  • As a token of appreciation for your time, all participants will be provided pizza 🍕 and a Central Piedmont t-shirt 👕.
  • Participants will be entered into a drawing with the opportunity to 💸 win a $50 Amazon gift card.
  • All selected participants will be contacted to confirm their participation.

Check your college email for details!

Educator Spotlight – Susan Autry

susan-autry💡 Susan Autry has always loved history and wanted to be an educator. After a stint with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, she realized she had a calling to work in higher education.

“Being able to teach at the college level and teaching adults is so gratifying because I can focus on my passion, which is talking about history and telling students the amazing story of our collective past,” Autry said. “There has never been anything else I could conceive of doing professionally.” 😄

That passion has resulted in an award-winning career in the classroom at Central Piedmont. She has served as a Faculty Fellow for the Center for Teaching and Learning, received the Student Government Association Award as voted on by students at the Merancas Campus, and won the Mary W. and Wilton Parr Faculty Teaching Award. 🏆

📚 Autry also received the title of Full Professor and published a two-volume American History college-level textbook with co-author Dr. Edward Lee of Winthrop University that will be available this year.

Autry is grateful for the opportunities the college provided her to grow professionally by traveling to conferences, teaching students about history, and the relationships she developed here.

“It has been so meaningful to me,” she said. “The freedom to tell our past to mature students who are engaged and anxious to learn is the greatest possible profession I could ever ask for. Central Piedmont has given me more than I could have ever asked for in a career.”

One of the areas that Autry is most proud of is the quality of education she feels she provides her students, who have told her they learned more and had better experiences at Central Piedmont than at other institutions. Additionally, several have entered the teaching profession as well.

Ultimately, it is all about the students for Autry, embodying one of Central Piedmont’s core values of being student-centered.

“My most meaningful accomplishment is not the projects that I completed with the CTLE, or the awards that I received, or the faculty title I can attach to my name,” she said. “My most meaningful accomplishment is the intense and engaged stare I get when I know my students are fully enthralled in my teaching. There is no better reward than when students say they are sad that a semester is over or can’t wait until the next class to see ‘what happens.’ That is my greatest accomplishment. Fortunately, I can make it happen every semester if I keep my passion strong and my love of history and teaching engaging. Then I know I have accomplished what I have set out to do.” ⭐

National TRIO Day 2024

Trio Day volunteerrsOn Feb. 24, 2024, TRIO Student Support Services at Central Piedmont Community College marked the 38th anniversary of National TRIO Day. This special occasion was celebrated with a day of service at Nourish Up, previously known as Loaves & Fishes/Friendship Trays, located in Charlotte.

Participants in the event filled food orders for local food pantries and sorted through donated food items provided by the community. This effort served our neighbors’ immediate needs and highlighted the spirit of giving and collaboration among students.

Congress designated National TRIO Day in 1986 and observes it on the fourth Saturday of February each year. This day recognizes and raises awareness of the TRIO programs, which offer invaluable educational opportunities to students worldwide.

TRIO Day volunteersJoin TRIO SSS: Learn more about the TRIO Student Support Services and how to become part of this impactful community. Visit us at our Central Campus location, Central High, Room 322, for more information on our program and how you can get involved.

Celebrating Emma Brown: A Central Piedmont Beacon of Student Success

Emma BrownAs Women’s History Month unfolds, Central Piedmont Community College proudly honors the remarkable women who’ve profoundly impacted education. Today, we spotlight Emma Brown, whose dedication to student success and mental health has been nothing short of inspirational.

Emma Brown’s Legacy:

  • Tenure: A journey from 1981 to 2008, culminating as Associate Vice President of Student Success Services.
  • Impact: Introduced vital programs like PCAP and iCAN, focusing on student empowerment and support.
  • Philosophy: Championed the empowering belief, “Helping students help themselves.”

Trailblazing Impact:

  • Counselor to Leader: Brown’s climb from a counselor to an esteemed vice president showcased her unwavering commitment to students.
  • Awards & Honors: Throughout her career, she received accolades and was sought after for her insights on student counseling.

Enduring Influence:

  • Although retired, Emma Brown’s legacy continues to resonate through Central Piedmont’s commitment to nurturing student well-being and academic achievement.

Join us in celebrating Emma Brown’s lasting contributions, which have helped shape a supportive and successful environment for generations of students.

Meet Dr. Alecia Bracy: Championing Diversity and Inclusion at Central Piedmont

Central Piedmont Community College is proud to spotlight Dr. Alecia Bracy, our dynamic Vendor Diversity Program Specialist. With her profound expertise and dedication, Dr. Bracy is at the forefront of fostering an inclusive environment that values diversity and equity.

Dr. Bracy’s Journey:

  • Academic Excellence: Armed with a Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, her research delved into the workplace experiences of underrepresented groups.
  • Corporate and Consulting Leader: Brings a wealth of corporate experience in learning and leadership development, alongside being a founder of a consulting firm specializing in strategic planning, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
  • Central Piedmont Mission: Focuses on enhancing the participation of Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB) in providing services to Central Piedmont.

Her Vision and Impact:

  • Diversity Advocate: Dr. Bracy is passionate about creating a workplace where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels valued.
  • Educational Contributor: Before her current role, she served as a part-time Continuing Education staff instructor at Central Piedmont, further affirming her commitment to education and career development.
  • Community Leader: An active volunteer, mentor, and leader in several organizations focused on social justice, women of color, and community service.

Accolades and Contributions:

  • Presidential Member: National Society of Leadership and Success.
  • Award Winner: Recognized for her academic achievements and impactful community service by various organizations.
  • Small Business Advocate: Works closely with Central Piedmont’s Small Business Center to provide opportunities and resources for small, underrepresented businesses.

Why Dr. Bracy’s Work Matters:

  • Inclusive Growth: Her efforts ensure that diversity and inclusion principles are woven into the fabric of Central Piedmont’s operations and culture.
  • Bridging Gaps: By connecting underrepresented businesses with vital resources, she helps strengthen the community and promotes economic equity.

Dr. Bracy’s Reflections:

“Central Piedmont offers a role that aligns perfectly with my passion for diversity and inclusion. Contributing to an environment where everyone feels valued brings me immense satisfaction,” Dr. Bracy shares.

Looking Ahead:

Dr. Bracy’s dedication to making a difference resonates throughout Central Piedmont and the broader community. Her commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion is paving the way for a more inclusive future at Central Piedmont Community College.

 

🔍 We’re Listening: The Student Voices Survey Series at Central Piedmont

student voices surveyHey, Central Piedmont scholars! The Office of Planning and Research is gearing up to roll out the Student Voices Survey Series on March 25. It’s your chance to be heard and make a positive impact. Here’s the breakdown:

  • Voice Your Journey: Share insights from your time at Central Piedmont to refine and enhance student programs and services.
  • Drive Change: Your honest feedback will help sculpt a better educational experience for you and your peers.
  • Influence Decisions: Be part of the force that molds future resources and activities on campus.
  • Survey Period: Open from March 25 – April 28 — mark your calendars!
  • Bonus Perk: Complete the survey, and you might snag an Amazon gift card valued at $500 or $100.

Let’s shape our Central Piedmont together. Your story, your voice, your college.

🎨 Call for Artists: Transform a CATS Bus into a Masterpiece

CATS busCentral Piedmont Community College students, your artistic talent has the spotlight! The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) is rolling out an exciting opportunity for local artists and designers to champion diversity and cultural inclusion. Here’s your chance to transform a CATS bus into a moving canvas that celebrates Charlotte’s vibrant community.

Why You Should Apply:

  • Showcase Diversity: Illustrate the rich cultural tapestry of Charlotte.
  • Be Seen: Your design will travel the city, reaching a wide audience.
  • Earn and Learn: A $4,000 stipend is up for grabs for your hard work and creativity.
  • Build Your Portfolio: A unique addition that will stand out in any artist’s collection.

Eligibility:

  • Open to artists and designers from the CATS service area and those with ties to Charlotte’s indigenous cultures.
  • We’re casting a wide net: whether you’re an emerging talent or have been historically underrepresented in the arts, this call is for you.

Project Highlights:

  • Art Budget: $4,000, covering all aspects of the project.
  • Canvas: The two long sides and back of a CATS bus.
  • Visibility: The wrapped bus will be a part of CATS’s fleet for about a year.

Key Dates:

  • Application Period: Feb. 16 – Mar. 17, 2024
  • Artist Selection: Mar. 18 – Apr. 5, 2024
  • Design Phases: From conceptualization in April to final file delivery by May 31, 2024
  • Showcase: The bus hits the streets in June 2024.

Selection Process:

  • A diverse panel will review submissions, focusing on aesthetic ability, cultural reflection in art, and project management skills.

Scope and Schedule:

  • Selected artists will develop a conceptual proposal, receive feedback, and refine their designs into final digital files for the bus wrap.

How to Jump In:

  • Head to the application link by Mar. 17, 2024, 11:59 p.m. EDT. Remember, this is about showcasing qualifications, not submitting design proposals.

Make Your Mark on Charlotte:

This project isn’t just about art; it’s a celebration of our city’s diversity and an invitation for all to contribute to its narrative. Whether you’re driven by the cause, the creativity, or the compensation, we want to see your vision for a more inclusive Charlotte.

Questions? Reach out to Chris Lange, Art in Transit Program Administrator, at clange@charlottenc.gov for more info.

Your Creativity. Our Community. A Canvas in Motion.

 

Be a Student Ambassador

Student AmbassadorsAs a Central Piedmont Community College student, embrace the opportunity to become a leader and advocate for your peers by joining the Student Ambassador program. Not only will you develop essential skills and receive a generous scholarship, but you’ll also engage in activities that bolster your resume and expand your network. 

  • Develop Skills: Enhance leadership and communication abilities.
  • Earn a Scholarship: Receive up to $1,700 per semester.
  • Broaden Horizons: Network and participate in college and community events.
  • Make an Impact: Influence prospective and current students positively.

Eligibility includes a 3.0 GPA and completion of 18 credit hours, among other criteria. Commit to training, monthly meetings, and at least 60 hours of service per semester. 

Join one of the upcoming Student Ambassador Interest Sessions to learn more about this transformative role:

  • Wed., Feb. 21: 5 – 5:30 p.m. at Central Campus, Parr Center, Room 1000
  • Tues., Feb. 27: 9:30 – 10 a.m., Virtual Meeting (or join by phone +1 415-655-0001 Access code: 2423 753 8729)
  • Wed., Feb. 28: 2 – 2:30 p.m. at Central Campus, Parr Center, Room 0100

These sessions will guide you through the benefits and application process and connect you with current ambassadors.

Black History Month: Programs + Harvey B. Gantt Museum Trip! GET INVOLVED!

Community Catalyst InitiativeJoin Student Engagement’s new Community Catalyst Initiative (CCI), a student-focused series designed to ignite a passion for service and civic engagement while empowering students to become catalysts for positive change in their communities!

February Black History Month Events:

“Black & Queer: Yes, We’re Here!” – Are you passionate or curious about differing identities in the black community? Participate in our panel discussion delving into the intersection of Black & queer realities.

“Harvey B Gantt Museum for African American Art + Culture Tour & Workshop” – Join us for a guided tour of the Harvey B Gantt Museum, its history, and a discussion of artists and exhibitions! There will be a Hands-On Workshop after where students can learn about a Black artist & create their own art. Transportation from Central Campus & lunch will be provided!

SIGN-UP! Spots are limited, so secure your spot TODAY! We look forward to engaging with you!

Purpose Chats Series: Spring 2024 Interest Form

purpose chatsThe Purpose Chats program, a part of the UMentoring Network within the Office of Mentoring and Coaching, offers a variety of empowering activities and services designed to support student growth, including:

  • Workshops: Interactive sessions on various topics to foster personal development
  • Coaching: One-on-one support to guide students through challenges.
  • Mentorship: Building relationships with experienced mentors for guidance and support
  • Social and Cultural Activities: Events that enrich the college experience and broaden perspectives
  • Empowerment Activities: Engagements designed to boost confidence and self-awareness
  • Discussions and Panels: Opportunities to explore diverse viewpoints and gain insights
  • Leadership and Research Projects: Practical experiences to enhance resumes and build skill sets.

Join us monthly from 4-5:30 p.m. at Central Campus, starting in February and wrapping up the last week of April.

  • Session One: Thurs., Feb. 29, Hagemeyer Library, Room 2160
  • Session Two: Thurs., Mar. 28, Hagemeyer Library, Room 2160
  • Session Three: Thurs., Apr. 25, Hagemeyer Library, Room 2160
  • Session Four: Mon., Apr. 29, Hagemeyer Library, Room 2160

For questions, reach out to Paige Gammon at paige.gammon@cpcc.edu. Remember to fill out the interest form to participate in these empowering sessions.