Native American Heritage Month

Native American Heritage month text on black backgroundWhat term or terms are preferred to refer to the indigenous people of the Americas? Do you know how many Indian tribes exist in the Carolinas?  What is the history of Native American Heritage Month? Check out the library’s Native American Heritage Month guide to learn the answers to all of these questions and more!

Also, be sure to visit one of our campus libraries to check out Native American Heritage books on display.

Attention all Graduates! Need help with your next steps?

Dr D holding diploma t commencementCongratulations December Graduates.  Do you need help mapping out a game plan for your job search?  Career Services is here to help! We want to help polish your resume, interview skills and job search strategy. Visit Handshake to view employment opportunities, both part and full-time.

Interviewing in a mask?  Here are some tips:

  • Select a mask before hand, and make sure others can clearly understand you when you speak
  • People will still be able to see you smile in your eyes, so use facial expressions even when masked
  • Be sure to wear your mask properly, covering your mouth and nose
  • Choose a professional mask in a neutral tone without graphics or slogans

Ready for more interview tips?

  • Big Interview is an online system that builds your interview confidence and expertise. Watch a short video to learn more about it.
  • Join Student Engagement and Career Services to learn about small talk, successfully talking about yourself, networking, and other career related communication skills. Session held Tue, November 16, 3pm – 4pm.  More information and Zoom link to join.

Career counselors can practice interview skills with students.  Get in touch with us. Career Services helps you elevate your career!

Military Families and Veterans Week of Events

Veteran's Day Flag CeremonyVeterans Day is Thursday, November 11. In honor of our military veterans and family members, Central Piedmont’s Military Families and Veterans Services will host a Veterans Week. Learn about overcoming inequalities and increasing equity through success stories and personal experiences from retired military officials who are employed in the field of veteran services and education. You will also have an opportunity to add value and success toward your academic journey.

Opportunity Scholars “Spread The Love” in Charlotte

On Oct. 27, approximately 50 Central Piedmont Opportunity Scholars gathered in the Worrell Gym, located on Central Piedmont’s Central Campus, to participate in a special “Spread the Love” event.

During their time together, the students:

Each month, the college’s Office of Mentoring and Bridge hosts bi-weekly Pop Series workshops to help Opportunity Scholarship recipients bridge the transition between high school and college by informing students of campus resources in an attempt to sharpen their self-advocacy skills, learn the importance of professional communication, and maintain a healthy work/life balance. Workshop attendance is required for all first-year Opportunity Scholars, while second-year Opportunity Scholarship students have the choice to attend.

The Mentoring and Bridge team changes the workshop theme monthly to reflect an area that can best benefit students. Featured themes have included and / or will include study habits and learning (September), health and fitness (November), and stress management (December). The Spread the Love event held on Oct. 27 supported the team’s October theme – community and giving back.

Central Piedmont Welcomes to New Board of Trustees

Board of trusteesGabriel J. Esparza and Khalif J. Rhodes, both of Charlotte, have been appointed by the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners to the Central Piedmont Community College Board of Trustees.

Esparza is a seasoned executive with more than 25 years of experience leading businesses spanning both large corporations and nimble start-ups. He serves as both advisor and investor in a variety of entrepreneurial ventures. In one notable example, he played an integral part of the success story at RapidSOS – a gov-tech platform that radically transformed the way people communicate with 911, making it a data-driven experience that transmits precise location and other critical information to first responders.

Esparza’s term on the Central Piedmont board runs through June 2023. He holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a BA in International Relations and Psychology from Stanford University.

Rhodes is an attorney and founder of The Rhodes Firm, PLLC. He established the firm in 2012, after earning his J.D. and LL.M., from Thomas M. Cooley Law School. During his tenure at The Rhodes Firm, he has assisted various small to medium-sized businesses in the areas of mergers and acquisitions, corporate compliance and due diligence. In 2017, he was appointed the Chief Magistrate of the 26th Judicial District. Under his guidance, Mecklenburg County attempted to address the significant disparities in the criminal justice system. He was a part of a team that re-wrote Mecklenburg County’s bail policy.

Rhodes’ appointment as a Central Piedmont Trustee runs through June 2025. In addition to his law degrees, he earned a BA in Political Science from Pennsylvania State University.

Understanding Everyday Bias Keynote

two students sitting in auditoriumJoin us Nov. 3rd  from 2:00pm – 3:30pm for the Understanding Everyday Bias Keynote.

The Understanding Everyday Bias virtual keynote uncovers how hidden biases affect organizations and invites participants to reflect on their own biases. Students will learn how bias functions in the brain, shapes our perception of reality, and may negatively impact workplace decisions and culture. Participants will be inspired to take action to mitigate their bias in the future.

Managing Your Mental Health: Anxiety Management

two nursing students walking on campus with face masksDid you know anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 18.1% of the population every year*?  Join the Central Piedmont healthcare careers programs for an upcoming town hall discussion: Managing Your Mental Health: Anxiety Management. Participate in an interactive presentation discussing mental health management strategies.

Glenda Nnaji, a curriculum counselor in health professions, is a licensed clinical mental health counselor supervisor (LCMHCS), and a licensed clinical addiction specialist (LCAS). She will share her expertise and answer questions from participants. Glenda works with adult students who are having challenges with managing their Mental Health while in stressful competitive health programs. Learn about mental health symptoms, behaviors, and mental health management.

Event Details: 

  • Date: October 26, 2021
  • Time: 6:30 to 7:30pm
  • Location: Central Campus, Zeiss Building, Auditorium
    1231 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204

Save your spot and register today.

Questions? Visit us online to learn more about Healthcare Programs Townhall.

*according to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America.

Breaking the Silence: Real Talk on Domestic Violence

two female students staring toward stageIn observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Central Piedmont invites you to attend “Breaking the Silence: Real Talk on Domestic Violence,” a virtual panel discussion on the signs and dynamics of power and control in relationships. This program is being presented in partnership with Central Piedmont Library, Office of Institutional Equity, Student Engagement, Mecklenburg County Community Support Services (CSS), and Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) on October 18 from 9:30 a.m – 10:45 a.m.

Also, throughout October and early November, a special traveling exhibit featuring “Survivor Stories” will be on display for one week at each campus. Please make sure to view the Survivor Stories Exhibit that will rotate to each campus for one week. 

Homeless Services Network Offers Free Virtual Half-day Conference

two female students staring toward stageThe Homeless Services Network is offering a FREE virtual half-day conference – Homelessness and Services in Our Community: Connecting The Dots. 

This event will serve as a learning opportunity for anyone interested in learning more about housing insecurity and homelessness in our community. This year’s virtual event will feature sessions on collaboration, mental health, COVID’s impact, and more.

Register for the 2021 Half-Day Conference. The conference is scheduled for Thursday, November 4, 2021 – 9:00 am – 1:00 pm.

For more information, visit www.HSNCharlotte.com.

 Harvey Gantt: A Story of Perseverance in Driving Change

Harvey Gantt photo in front of colorful backdropJoin us on Thursday, Oct. 14; 1 – 2:30 p.m. for the Harvey Gantt: A Story of Perseverance in Driving Change.

In addition to being Charlotte’s first African-American mayor, Mr. Gantt was also the first African-American student at Clemson University. Join us as he reflects on his own journey, discusses the power of collaboration and allyship in creating change, and gives advice on how Central Piedmont can continue pushing forward in supporting our students and the Charlotte community.

Location:  Halton Theater in the Overcash Performing Arts Center on Central Campus.

Live streaming available on each campus. Space will be limited to ensure social distancing guidelines are followed.  Masks will be required at all of the events (both in-person and streamed). Register and reserve your seat today!

For more information, please contact David.Mahatha@cpcc.edu.

Get Ready For College During College Application Week

Students on Central Piedmont Community College campusJoin us for NC Countdown to College: College Application Week! This event is an opportunity for future students to receive information about graduating college debt free, the application to Central Piedmont, Residency Determination Service, and showcase what is available to students at each campus.

Do you know a high schooler who wants to go to college, but isn’t sure how to get started? The annual North Carolina Countdown to College events can help with three important steps to beginning the college journey:

Register for College Week today at a campus near you.  Sessions are held Monday, October 18 to Saturday, October 23.

Advisory: QEP abstracts and research proposals Q&A session on Oct. 11

student on laptopAre you interested in learning more about the Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) process?  Are you unsure what the expectations are with regard to creating and submitting an abstract or proposal? Are you not sure where or how to get started? Do you want to talk to others who are also considering submitting a proposal.

Join Sarah Wilde, director of accreditation and quality enhancement at Central Piedmont, for a QEP Abstracts and Research Proposals Q&A session. The session will be held virtually on Monday, Oct. 11, from 10-11 a.m. 

Feel free to join at any point during the hour session. If you have questions but are not able to attend, please send your questions to sarah.wilde@cpcc.edu

Register to attend. 

Don’t miss out on free money for college! FAFSA Day is October 23

students being helped behind clear shield on campusAre you a high school senior or current college student working on your FAFSA form? We can help. We’re offering free WiFi and FAFSA Assistance — all from the comfort of your vehicle. Join us for the FAFSA Drive-In event on Saturday, October 23 on Harris Campus. 

Let us know you’re coming by registering today.

Filling out the FAFSA is a critical step in paying for college since schools use it to determine eligibility for federal, state and institutional aid, including grants and scholarships. Let us help you check this important step off your list of things to-do. It’s important for families to fill out the FAFSA as soon as possible because it increases the likelihood you will receive aid. Skipping out on this application means you’re leaving money on the table – don’t miss out! 

Learn more about event details and what to bring on October 23.

If you can’t join us, complete the 2021-2022 FAFSA today and contact Financial Aid at (704) 330-6942 or visit us online, if you need help.

Check out The Bill and Patty Gorelick Gallery Programs

Have you had a chance to visit any of the art galleries at Central Piedmont? Well, you should. The Gorelick Family has generously contributed to the exhibition of visual arts at Central Piedmont for the benefit of students and there is a gallery located on each of the college’s six campuses. There is a wide variety of art being showcased, and here are some of our favorites:

picture of an oil fire by artist Malu Tan

Malu Tan, We Didn’t Start the Fire, Oil on Canvas

Artist Malu Tan uses rich colors and careful technique to convey strong messages with simple scenes. Her inspiring work is on display at the Levine Campus.

picture of an orange glass structure

Elijah Kell, Ice Fields, Kiln-Formed Glass

Another interesting artist is Elijah Kell, a high school junior who specializes in glasswork. Elijah has his own public gallery and studio at only 17 years old?! Imagery plays a key role in his work, and the pieces he creates are truly breathtaking.

Check out the other artists on display; follow us on instagram @cpccarts, and share your experiences with us!

Legal Workshop Series Open to all Students

counselor sitting alongside student while looking together at a computer screenLegal matters can be complicated and confusing. Join the Central Piedmont’s Single Stop office, in partnership with Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy for a semester-long virtual workshop series focused on a variety of legal topics. Get expert insight to help you better understand things like:

  • public benefits
  • tenant’s rights
  • healthcare
  • criminal history expungement
  • veteran’s benefits

Learn more about upcoming workshop dates and topics today.

Central Piedmont’s Cato Campus to host annual Fall Plant Sale

three people standing surrounding a green plantThe Central Piedmont Community College Horticulture Technology program invites you to attend its annual Fall Plant Sale October 1 – 2nd on Cato Campus. An array of vegetables, perennials, shrubs and trees will be available for purchase throughout the two-day event. All proceeds will benefit the Horticulture Technology program at Central Piedmont.

Horticulture students will be on-site to assist attendees with choosing from a variety of items such as:

  • fall vegetables – lettuce, cabbage, broccoli and more
  • assorted trees, shrubs and flowers

If you’re a gardener at heart, you won’t want to miss this event. Mark your calendar today!

Friday, October 1, 9 a.m.–6 pm. – Saturday, October 2, 9 a.m.–Noon

This event is free and open to the public. Masks are required. Personal checks, cash and cards accepted. FREE parking is available at the Cato Campus.  For more information, visit us online or please email kelly.black@cpcc.edu.

Young Professionals Virtual Training Event – Register Today

PBS Charlotte Tune in logoJoin Young Leaders Council for an afternoon of growth and networking virtually on Saturday, September 11 from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Register to attend today. Once registered, an email will be sent to you with further instructions on how to join the days events.

Learn how:

  • To build a resume that makes you stand out.
  • To maximize your presence on social media.
  • Where to find applications online.
  • To best answer interview questions.

All Sessions are 20 minutes:

  • Session 1: Resume Writing & Cover Letters
  • Session 2: How to build a professional social media presence
  • Session 3: Applying for jobs & how to find them
  • Session 4: Interviewing: How to prepare for the big day
  • Session 5: What to wear to your virtual or in-person interview

We Have the Resources You Need – Learn More at Student Resource Day

two students with COVID masks being helped at a service deskAre you ready to start the semester off right? If so, make sure to attend the Student Resource Day virtually on Sep 2nd from 2:30 p.m – 4:30 p.m. via Zoom meeting. As part of the Student Resources Week, any current students who participate will be entered to win one of five $25 Amazon Gift Cards. 

Several student support departments will be answering questions and sharing important information to any students that join the Zoom meeting. Each department will have their own breakout rooms within Zoom for students to join. Join us to learn about the fantastic resources available to all current students on Sept 2!

How to Participate

Any student attending the Zoom Meetings will automatically get entered for the sweepstake. Students are encouraged to use their cell phones, laptops and desktops as long as they have an integrated camera to record their responses.   

You must be a Central Piedmont student. (Staff, Faculty, Part-time and Work Study students are not eligible).  Students must record a video sharing something new they learned to enter the sweepstakes. Students can also go directly to FlipGrid to submit video entries if they are not able to attend the ZOOM meeting. 

Upload your videos and comments using Flipgrid:  (Link not active until Sep 2nd) students can go to this link to submit a recorded response to the department listed. Students must sign in using their student credentials to be able to sign in. 

The winners will be contacted by email on Sep 13,  2021.

Questions? Contact John.Gomez@cpcc.edu.

Join a Global Learning Event this Fall

Friday, September 10th, 11am to noon – Virtual
Where will you go in 2022? The Global Learning office is traveling again! Come learn about study abroad at Central Piedmont and where we will go in the summer of 2022.
You will also learn about the NC Scholars of Global Distinction Program, the Global Student Association, and both virtual and local globally themed events.
Wednesday, September 15th, 10am –11 a.m. – Virtual
“Mzansi” (South Africa’s nickname) is one of the most beautiful and interesting countries in the world. Join our partners from EDU Africa as they share about South African culture, language, and history. Register for this event today!
Global Student Association Meetings – to get on our invite list to receive information about our fall meetings and schedule, complete the GSA Registration Form
The Global Student Association is a group of students who learn about and celebrate different cultures. Supported by both the International Student Services Center and the Global Learning office, the Global Student Association appreciates different languages and different ways of doing things by participating in multicultural events and supporting students who want to study abroad. The Global Student Association also creates a sense of unity among international students and those interested in other cultures.  

 

Join us for a Week of Welcome events on every campus

students walking with masks while on campusStudent Engagement wants to welcome you to the Central Piedmont community throughout our Week of Welcome (August 23-27)! Each campus is hosting a variety of grab-and-take home-style events that allow us to introduce you to what engagement looks like at Central Piedmont. Masks and social distancing will be required.
All events are from 11-1 unless noted otherwise and will be at the following campus locations (unless noted as a virtual event):
  • Central: Worrell Building Patio
  • Levine: Levine II Outside of Room 1400 (Student Engagement Suite)
  • Cato: Cato III Patio
  • Merancas: Merancas IV Patio
  • Harper: Harper IV Lobby
  • Harris: Harris I Room 1225, Student Engagement Suite
Welcome Week Events:
  • Monday, August 23: It’s hot outside, so grab a cool treat to cool you off! Free ice pops or ice cream!
  • Tuesday, August 24: Central Piedmont prides itself on service! Grab a take-home service project that helps Promising Pages, an agency providing books and literacy initiatives to young readers!
  • Wednesday, August 25 | Craft Day: get creative with a grab and take-home canvas and paint set! Tag us on social media to share your masterpiece with the student body!
  • Thursday, August 26 | Virtual Trivia | 11-3pm: Join us via Zoom for an opportunity to show off your knowledge on a variety of topics and a chance to win a gift card! Visit the Student Life Calendar for Zoom information!
  • Friday, August 27 | Virtual Club Fair | 1-2:30pm: Come meet the different student clubs Central Piedmont has to offer. Speak with staff and students about getting involved, and find information on clubs you would like to join!  Join us via Zoom Meeting. [Meeting ID: 980 3776 9241, Passcode: Clubs]
  • Friday, August 27 | Esports | 11am-5pm:  Download the FREE Mission Control GG App, Join the Central Piedmont Organization, Sign up, and suggest your favorite game! Registration closes on Aug 26.

Check the Student Engagement event calendar to see when Welcome Week events are on your campus!