✍️ Express Your Gratitude at Central Piedmont! ✍️

An off-white envelope, sealed with red wax sealFeeling thankful? Join us for a gratitude letter writing event at Central Piedmont’s Harris and Harper Campuses. This is your chance to take a moment and share your appreciation with someone who has made a difference in your life.

Event Details:

Harper Campus

  • When: Tue., Nov. 19
  • Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
  • Where: Harper IV Building,1st Floor Lobby

Harris Campus

  • When: Wed., Nov. 20
  • Time: Noon – 2:30 p.m.
  • Where: Harris I Building, 1st Floor Lobby

What to Expect:

  • ✉️ Write letters of gratitude: Craft a heartfelt message to someone you care about.
  • 📝 Materials provided: We’ve got all you need to create a meaningful note.

Why Attend?

  • Boost your mood and spread positivity
  • Connect with others in a meaningful way
  • Free supplies and a relaxing environment

Take a break from your day and share some love! For more information, contact Brittany Lutton.

REMINDER: Career Development Week is Nov. 12-14

An employer speaks with a student after a panel.Career Development Week is packed with events designed to help you boost your professional skills, connect with employers, and prepare for your future. Here’s a breakdown of the key events:

📅 Event Schedule:

  1. Resume Building Workshop 📝
    • Date: Tuesday, Nov. 12
    • Time: 12-2 p.m.
    • Location: Parr Center, Rooms 0060 & 0070
    • Description: Get your resume reviewed by hiring professionals and explore the Central Piedmont Clothing Closet for free interview attire.
  2. 💼 IT and Finance Meet & Greet
    • Date: Tuesday, Nov. 12
    • Time: 2-3 p.m.
    • Location: Parr Center, Room 1000
    • Description: Connect with industry experts in two of Charlotte’s fastest-growing fields—IT and Finance. Discover career opportunities and make lasting connections.
  3. 🧠 Emotional Intelligence Workshop
    • Date: Tuesday, Nov. 12
    • Time: 3:15-4:15 p.m.
    • Location: Parr Center, Room 1010
    • Description: Learn how emotional intelligence can transform your professional and personal life, helping you build stronger, more influential relationships.
  4. 📄 Resume Development Workshop
    • Date: Wednesday, Nov. 13
    • Time: 10-11 a.m.
    • Location: Parr Center, Rooms 1000 & 1010
    • Description: Get professional insights into what makes a resume stand out from the hiring experts themselves!
  5. 👥 Employer Panel and Meet & Greet
    • Date: Wednesday, Nov. 13
    • Time: 1-3 p.m.
    • Location: North Classroom Building Auditorium, Room 1123
    • Description: Hear from employers across various industries about their career paths, the skills they value, and network with potential employers.
  6. 🌐 Virtual Alumni Leadership Council Meet & Greet
    • Date: Wednesday, Nov. 13
    • Time: 1-3 p.m.
    • Location: Virtual on Microsoft Teams
    • Description: Hear from employers across various industries about their career paths, the skills they value, and network with potential employers.
  7. 💻 Power Up with LinkedIn Workshop with Virtual Viewing Party
    • Date: Thursday, Nov. 14
    • Time: 10-11 a.m.
    • Location: Virtual on Microsoft Teams, with viewing party at Hagemayer Library, Room 2160
    • Description: Learn how to leverage LinkedIn to build your brand and connect with employers in today’s digital world.
  8. 🔍 Virtual Job Strategy Workshop
    • Date: Thursday, Nov. 14
    • Time: 1-2 p.m.
    • Location: Virtual on Microsoft Teams
    • Description: Join Mark Short, Central Piedmont’s HR expert, to learn strategic job search techniques and how to maximize your job search.
  9. 🏙️ City of Charlotte Speaks
    • Date: Thursday, Nov. 14
    • Time: 3:30-4:30 p.m.
    • Location: Parr Center, Rooms 1000 & 1010
    • Description: Explore diverse career options within the City of Charlotte, from public services to HR and beyond.

For more information and detailed schedules, visit the event page.

Virtual Panel – Insights from Medical Office Administration Students 💼✨

Three professionally dressed women, smiling for the cameraCurious about what a career in Medical Office Administration looks like? Join us for an inspiring virtual panel with current and former students from the Medical Office Administration Program! Get a behind-the-scenes look at the skills, insights, and career paths this program opens up.

Why Join?

  • Learn from Real Experiences: Hear firsthand how students and alumni are applying their knowledge in healthcare settings or how they’re planning to use their skills post-graduation.
  • Ask Questions: This is a unique opportunity to interact, ask questions, and gain valuable advice from those who have been in your shoes.

How to Join

  • Click on the Teams link to jump right into the event.
  • Bonus: Complete our registration form to receive a reminder email with the event link for easy access!

Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and envision your future in Medical Office Administration.

Honoring Our Veterans at Central Piedmont 🎖️

Veteran speaks at a podium with an American flag in the background

Join Veterans Services on November 11 as we come together to honor the courageous men and women who have served in our armed forces. This special day is an opportunity for our community to recognize the dedication and sacrifice of our veterans. Let’s celebrate them with gratitude, respect, and community spirit!

🍽️ Veterans Day Luncheon Details:

Veterans Services will host luncheons at multiple campus locations. Find your nearest location below, and join us to enjoy food, camaraderie, and conversation:

  • Central Campus: Parr Center, Room 2160
  • Harper IV: Room 320
  • Merancas Campus: Veterans Center
  • Cato Campus: Annabelle Building, Multipurpose Room 024
  • Levine Campus: Veterans Center

Event Time: All luncheons will take place Nov. 11 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Come by, enjoy a meal, and support our veterans on this special day of celebration. Let’s show our veterans how much we value their service and contributions to our community.

De-Stress Event: Relax Before Finals at Central Piedmont! 🧘‍♀️

Students sitting in the floor, coloringFeeling the pressure of upcoming finals? 😓 Take a breather and join us for a De-Stress Event! It’s the perfect way to unwind and recharge before hitting the books again.

Activities Include:

  • 🛍️ Coping Kits: Create your own personalized kit filled with stress-relief goodies.
  • 🌿 Aromatherapy: Mix and make your own soothing scents.
  • 🎨 Coloring: Tap into your creative side with some relaxing coloring.

Event Details:

  • 📅 Date: Wed., Nov. 13
  • 🕛 Time: Noon – 2:30 p.m.
  • 📍 Location: Harris Campus, Harris Building 1 Lobby

Questions? Contact Brittany Lutton at brittany.lutton@cpcc.edu.

Come de-stress with us and head into finals feeling refreshed and ready! 💪

🎉 Celebrate I Am First Gen Week at Central Piedmont Nov. 4-8

Three students posing with first-gen student signsThe Office of Mentoring and Coaching is hosting an exciting week-long event to honor our first-generation students, faculty, and staff. Whether you’re a first-generation student or just want to show your support, come out to celebrate, connect, and learn! Here’s the lineup:

  • Mon., Nov. 4: First Generation Awareness
    🕚 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
    📍 Parr Center, Room 1000-1050
  • Tues., Nov. 5: Get Out and Vote
    • 🗳️ It’s Election Day! Make sure your voice is heard by casting your vote. Find your polling location and check voting hours.
    • First-Gen alumni: wear your alma mater shirts and sweatshirts; current first-gen students: wear a shirt for your FUTURE alma mater or your Central Piedmont shirt/sweatshirt
  • Wed., Nov. 6: First Gen Meet and Greet
    🕙 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
    📍 Library, Room 2160
  • Thurs., Nov. 7: I Am First Panel
    🕑 2 – 3 p.m.
    📍 Library, Room 2160
  • Fri., Nov. 8: First Gen Activate Community Service
    🕑 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
    📍 Parr Center, Room 0060-0070

Don’t miss out on this chance to celebrate, connect, and be inspired! 🥳✨

🌟 Central Piedmont Students Shine at the 2024 AMG Heritage Awards

Two culinary students working the Heritage AwardsThe 2024 AMG Heritage Awards lit up the Dale F. Halton Theater on Oct. 26, and Central Piedmont students were at the heart of the action! From backstage glamour to culinary excellence, students from the Cosmetology and Culinary Programs showcased their talents at this prestigious event.

💄 Cosmetology in Action:

Cosmetology students took on the exciting challenge of styling hair and makeup for Music Artist Legends and NC Senior Beauty Queens. Some of the legendary artists included David L. Cooke, Denise Williams, and Skip Martin. Students got hands-on, real-world experience working before, during, and after the show, demonstrating their professionalism both in the dressing rooms and on stage.

  • Real-World Experience: This event gave students the chance to add high-profile experience to their professional portfolios, resumes, and profiles. We are so proud of their exceptional work and dedication!

🍽️ Culinary Creativity:

Students from the Culinary Program took the stage—well, the dining stage—by preparing and serving the After Show Reception dinner. They wowed guests with a spread of appetizing, creative delicacies, showcasing their culinary talents.

🙌 A Team Effort:

Led by department faculty and staff, this event provided students with a fun and enriching learning experience. A huge thank you to all the volunteers and the Halton Theater staff who made this opportunity possible!

Congratulations to our students for their incredible work at the AMG Heritage Awards! 🎉🌟

🌪️ Central Piedmont Faculty Lead Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts

Two men, shaking hands. One wears a hard hat and a reflective vestThe devastation left by Hurricane Helene has deeply affected communities across the region. In response, several Central Piedmont faculty members have stepped up to provide critical aid and support.

A Call to Action: Matt Smith’s Relief Efforts

  • Matthew Smith, associate dean of transportation, faced the storm’s aftermath near his home in Hickory. He, along with neighbors, used chainsaws and equipment to clear trees and debris blocking streets and driveways. But once he realized the full extent of the damage, he knew he had to do more.
  • Joining Forces: Smith traveled to Boone and partnered with Samaritan’s Purse to further the relief efforts. During one operation, he and fellow volunteers encountered an elderly couple trapped by a mudslide. It took nearly four and a half hours using an excavator and front loader to clear the mud and debris that had enveloped their home.
  • Restoring Hope: “You have people in absolute dire straits, and then an army of people from all over showed up to help,” Smith shared. “It was humbling and restored your faith in humanity.”
  • Smith returned to Boone four more times, bringing colleagues from the Transportation Department to assist with ongoing recovery efforts.

Matt Miller’s Innovative Approach

  • Matt Miller, chair of sustainability technologies, found inspiration to help after seeing the damage at his alma mater, Montreat College. He put his teaching into action by creating and donating mobile solar generators to provide families with a way to charge portable devices and small medical equipment. So far, seven units have been built and donated.
  • A New Project: After witnessing families tent camping beside the Swannanoa River, surrounded by walls of plastic water bottles, Miller and his class began working on a solar water pump project. The goal is to filter river water to provide clean, drinkable water to those in need.

Community Collaboration

Miller and Smith’s efforts were supported by several colleagues, including Amber and Shawn Dobbins, Chris Facente, Stephen Gerhardt, Brittany Holleran, Jason Johnson, John Monagle, Cory Palmer, and D.I. von Briesen. Chris Facente, the dean of skilled trades and transportation, praised their dedication and initiative:

“Both exemplify the values of collaboration, excellence, accountability for their communities, and courage. They weren’t asked to take these tasks on, but they knew it was the right thing to do.”

These efforts showcase Central Piedmont’s commitment to community service and the extraordinary dedication of its faculty to support those in need.

🌱 Discover Your Purpose with the Office of Mentoring and Coaching Oct. 24

purpose chatsReady to explore your purpose and set meaningful goals? Join the Office of Mentoring and Coaching for an inspiring session where we’ll dive into self-discovery and growth. Here’s what you need to know:

  • 🗓️ Date: Tues., Oct. 24
  • 🕑 Time: 2 p.m.
  • 📍 Location: Parr Center, Library, Room 2160

Topics We’ll Explore:

  • Who am I? 🌟
  • Goal Setting 🎯
  • Personal Values ❤️
  • Becoming 💡

There will be engaging activities and discussions designed for everyone. All are welcome to join this journey of self-discovery! If you’d like to attend, please fill out this registration form.

Let’s grow together! 🌻

Upcoming Arts Events in October, November 🖼️🎨

Dove Art Gallery

Get Your Art On!

  • Tuesday, Oct. 22 and Wednesday, Nov. 13, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
  • Cato Campus, Annable, Gorelick Gallery

The Central Piedmont Gorelick Galleries at Cato are thrilled to invite students to transform our display cases into vibrant works of art that reflect their degree or certificate programs.

Basket Weaving Demonstration

  • Friday, Oct. 25, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
  • Central Campus, Parr Center, Dove Gallery

Join us for a basket weaving demonstration hosted by Catawba artist Aaron Baumgardner.

Catawba Cultural Center Art Exhibition | Opening Reception

  • Friday, Oct. 25, 6-8 p.m.
  • Central Campus, Parr Center, Dove Gallery

Join us for an opening reception featuring artists from the Catawba nation.

🎭 Get Ready for The Addams Family at Central Piedmont!

The Addams Family musical logo with full moon and batsAmerica’s darkest family is back, and things are getting complicated when Wednesday Addams falls for a sweet young man from a “normal” family! 💕😱 With Gomez keeping secrets from Morticia, this dinner party is sure to bring chaos! 🍽️👻

📍 Location: Central Campus, Overcash Center, Halton Theater
🎟️ Tickets: Available for purchase now!

Showtimes:

  • Nov. 8, 7:30 p.m.
  • Nov. 9, 7:30 p.m.
  • Nov. 10, 2:30 p.m.
  • Nov. 14, 7:30 p.m.
  • Nov. 15, 7:30 p.m.
  • Nov. 16, 7:30 p.m.
  • Nov. 17, 2:30 p.m.

Specials:

  • 🎫 BOGO adult tickets for Thursday’s show with code 2 SNAPS
  • 🎓 Central Piedmont students get in FREE at the door with current student ID
  • 🎟️ Employees get up to two $10 tickets with code CPCCEMPLOYEE

 

🌍 Virtual Exchange with EDU Africa: Focus on Good Health & Well-Being

Visual representation of goal 3 on a bright green background. Reads: good health and well being with animated heartbeat and vital signs in white

The Center for Global Engagement and Office of Mentoring & Coaching are offering monthly virtual through May 2025. Each session will explore a UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), focusing on a different African country.

The next exchange on Wed., Nov. 6, 12:30 – 2 p.m., will focus on SDG 3: Good Health & Well-Being in Tanzania. Hear from Margaret Kenyi, founder of Step by Step Learning Centre, followed by peer discussions with African college students.

👉 Register here or contact global.learning@cpcc.edu with questions.

🌍 Summer 2025 Study Abroad & Travel Programs – Details

Collage of international cityscapes with a photo of students travelling abroad in the center

Central Piedmont’s Center for Global Engagement is offering exciting Summer 2025 programs, including:

  • Florence, Italy: “Music, History, and Cultural Immersion” (Music Appreciation or CCE)
    Two weeks in May exploring Italian music, culture, and history with visits to iconic sites like The Uffizi and the Duomo. 🎶
  • Japan: “Japanese Warlords in Modern Media” (Humanities 120 or CCE)
    Two weeks in May exploring Japanese culture, historic sites like Kyoto temples, and modern media connections to warlords. 🎌
  • UK & Romania: “Dracula: History & Literature in the footsteps of Bram Stoker” (Humanities – Myth & Human Culture and World Civilizations II or CCE)
    10-day program following in the footsteps of Dracula, exploring the history and folklore of vampires in England and Romania. 🧛‍♂️

All applications for 2025 are officially open, deadline to apply December 10, 2025. 

These programs are open to students 18 and older, employees, and community members. Some scholarships are available for students. Please email the Center for Global Engagement with questions or call 704-330-6167.

For more details and to apply, visit the Center for Global Engagement website!

October Transfer Events

Three students posing for the camera in front of glass doors🎓 Transfer Tuesdays Are Back at Central Piedmont!

We’re excited to announce that Transfer Tuesdays have resumed! This is your chance to meet with College and University partners who can help guide your transfer journey. Make sure to check out the full schedule of events to see which schools will be on campus and when.

🌟 National Transfer Student Week: Oct 21-25

Mark your calendars for Mon, Oct. 21 through Fri, Oct. 25! Central Piedmont is hosting a variety of events during National Transfer Student Week to help you navigate the transfer process. Whether you’re looking to transfer after finishing your program or just want to learn more about your options, these events are designed to help you succeed.

🍂 Fall Transfer Fair: Tues, Oct 22

One of the highlights of National Transfer Student Week is the annual Fall Transfer Fair. Here are the details:

  • 🗓 Date: Tues, Oct 22
  • Time: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • 📍 Location: Central Campus, Parr Center 1st floor lobby

At the fair, you’ll have the chance to connect with representatives from various colleges and universities, learn about admissions requirements, academic programs, student life, and more. This is a fantastic opportunity to get all the information you need to make your transfer process smooth and successful. 🎯💡

🎨 Get Creative with Cricut Crafting! 🎨

Photo of a cricut machine with the words cricut crafting underneathLooking for a fun and relaxing way to express yourself? Join us for a Cricut Crafting session where you can design your own tote or pencil pouch with a mental health theme! 👜✏️

Event Details 📅

  • Date: Wed., Oct. 23
  • Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Location: Harris Campus, Student Engagement Office

It’s a perfect opportunity to unwind, get creative, and take home something special that you made yourself!

Need More Info? 📧

For any questions, reach out to Brittany Lutton at brittany.lutton@cpcc.edu.

Don’t miss out on this chance to craft something meaningful while connecting with fellow students. We can’t wait to see what you create! 🌟

Central Piedmont Honors Program Scholars Prepared and Poised for Honors Conference

Central Piedmont’s Truist Honors Scholars presented at the North Carolina Honors Association (NCHA) Conference on a variety of topics that aligned with their personal interests, career interests, and programs of study. Scholars supported one another from abstract development to presentation day to ensure everyone was prepared. The community and camaraderie were a joy to witness!

Group of students around a round table with a purple tableclothGroup of students in front of an outdoor mural

A huge congratulations to Tiffany Zamora who won the Best Oral Presentation Award for the NCHA 2024 Conference!

Student giving a presentation in front of a projector screen

Title of Presentation: A Paradise for Predation: A Sociological Examination of Solid Rock Church as a Microcosm of Religious Abuse

One judge’s comments are as follows: “Tiffany’s presentation was fantastic—well-researched, clear, and powerful. She brilliantly balanced the facts of the case she analyzed and clergy sexual misconduct more broadly with a strong theoretical and sociological analysis. Her presentation style was engaging, as she had the audience enraptured with her research and analysis, which were of advanced quality. The Q&A led to rich discussion and more information about Tiffany’s website and advocacy work, and she handled audience questions with confidence and grace. This was an exceptional presentation!!”

🌟 Self-Care Check-In at Central Piedmont 🌟

Students mingling at a gatheringTake a moment for yourself and join us at Central Piedmont’s Harper Campus for a self-care check-in! This event is all about helping you discover new ways to take care of your well-being.

Event Details:

  • When: Tue., Oct. 15
  • Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
  • Where: Harper IV Building, outside the Student Engagement Office

Activities:

  • Free self-care assessment: Learn more about your current self-care practices.
  • 🌱 Self-care tips: Get practical advice to enhance your well-being.
  • 🎟️ Raffle entry: Stand a chance to win a self-care book!

Make time for yourself—your well-being matters! For more information, contact Brittany Lutton.