Brightspace Orientation for Students

student looking at laptop in the classroom with central Piedmont face mask onNervous about taking your first online course in Brightspace, Central Piedmont’s new Learning Management System?

We can help! Our one hour, virtual instructional sessions will give you hands-on experience with Brightspace.

These sessions will demonstrate how to:

  • navigate Brightspace
  • turn on notifications
  • download the Brightspace Pulse app
  • take quizzes
  • upload assignments
  • post discussions
  • complete an Enrollment Verification Activity 

These sessions are open to all students. We think you should strongly consider signing up for this additional help if you: 

  • are new to Central Piedmont
  • are an English as a Foreign Language student
  • do not feel comfortable with technology

We also encourage you to use the Brightspace Resource Guide for extra help if needed.

Our goal is to make sure you are comfortable with the tools you need to be successful in class. We can’t wait to see you there!

View the Brightspace practice sessions schedule and register today.

Attend an ‘It’s a Major Decision’ Session

You want a career plan and answers instead of uncertainty?  With registration going on, now is the time to think ahead.  Career Services online “It’s a ‘Major’ Decision” sessions can help.  In an hour, learn the basics of making a career decision, including how to:

  • choose your program of study or future transfer major
  • get reliable information about where the jobs are in Charlotte (and beyond)
  • find out what degree is needed for the job you want and how much it pays

Open to prospective and current Central Piedmont students – so invite your friends who are interested in attending too!  Come with questions to ask our career counselors, because there will be plenty of time.  Sessions are held Wednesdays at noon, and Thursdays at 4 p.m.  Sign up!

Career Services at Central Piedmont helps students with career/major decisions, job searches, and connects students with employers. Visit our website and let us help elevate your career.

Join a Conversation about America’s Freedoms on June 15

Juneteenth Freedom Day

Join the Central Piedmont Libraries on Tuesday, June 15, from 9:30 -11 a.m., for the third session in the Civics 101 Series, “Putting YOU in the United States of America,” a candid conversation about the meaning of freedom in America.

Our featured conversationalists, Dr. Hugh Dussek, a history professor at Central Piedmont, and Mr. Reggie ‘Baba’ Singleton, founder and executive director of The Males Place, will provide a contextual overview on the history of Independence Day and Juneteenth.

This interactive dialogue will also include a discussion on the cultural differences and similarities, the significance of becoming a national holiday, and understanding why we celebrate.

Learn how to join the event via Zoom.

NC STRIVE Conference

Veterans day

If you or a family member are affiliated with the Armed Services you will not want to miss this opportunity to attend the NC STRIVE Conference, April 29, from 10 – 11 a.m.

A variety of topics will be discussed during the virtual conference, including:

• the importance of making whole health a priority
• the ways to reduce stress
• the many resources available to veterans and their loved ones

Visit the NC STRIVE Conference event page to join the conference and learn more.

Join the Discussion: Anthony Jack’s “The Privileged Poor” on April 29

Anthony JackStudents, join this important discussion on April 29, at 10 a.m., via Zoom, around how colleges and universities can better help students succeed. Professor and author Anthony Jack will talk about his book, “The Privileged Poor: How Elite Colleges are Failing Disadvantaged Students.”

Professor Jack will also share his personal experience and his subsequent research around how elite higher education institutions are failing under-represented minorities. He will explore what students and institutions need to do reverse this trend.

Learn more about the event and access the Zoom link.

Don’t miss out on free money! FAFSA Drive-In held on April 24

 

students being helped behind clear shield on campusDon’t miss out on free money for college!  Are 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, April 24 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 April 24.

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.

Sensoria Race Card Event: Reflect and Dialogue

two students sitting in auditoriumJoin Central Piedmont on April 16 to engage in open self-reflection and facilitated dialogue about race. This activity is inspired by the national Race Card Project, which involves individuals taking time to reflect on what race means to them and then capture their thoughts in just a few words.
In our virtual version of this activity, we will collect anonymous submissions online and build  a digital display featuring the submissions. Please complete your confidential Race Card Form, and reflect on your personal thoughts about race.
We welcome you to enjoy this opportunity for personal reflection, keep an eye out for the gallery, and join us on April 16th to continue the conversation about race.
Please visit the Sensoria Festival page  to learn more about this and other upcoming Sensoria events.

Sensoria Festival 2021: Stay connected to your community.

Experience events focused on culture, literature, arts and design, business and entrepreneurship, leadership and service during Central Piedmont’s Sensoria 2021.

All Central Piedmont students, faculty, staff, and alumni, as well as the community, are encouraged to join us to experience some of the best programming in the Charlotte region, celebrate the talent and accomplishments of Central Piedmont students, and to discover Central Piedmont’s outstanding creative programs.

Check out the full list of more than 30 events in this year’s Sensoria program.

Central Piedmont graduation will be held on Central Campus in May

What a year! We are so proud of our graduates and plan to honor your very important accomplishment this May. Central Piedmont is happy to announce we will host multiple, in-person commencement ceremonies for our May 2021 graduates on Central Campus, May 12 – 14. Graduates from summer 2020 and fall 2020 are also invited to participate in these ceremonies, and all graduates will be able to invite two (2) guests.

You have persevered beyond unexpected challenges and overcome many obstacles along the way. To show our appreciation, we’re providing complimentary caps, gowns and diplomas. You will be able to pick up your complimentary cap and gown beginning April 1 through April 30 at the Central Campus Bookstore.

The health and well-being of our Central Piedmont community, friends, and family is of the utmost importance and remains our top priority. To comply with the current COVID-19 gathering restrictions, this year’s commencement will allow a limited number of people to attend. Details on how you can reserve your two allotted tickets will be listed on the graduation website by mid April.

Don’t worry — all ceremonies will be live-streamed for those loved ones who can’t attend in-person.

We look forward to coming together safely in May to honor and celebrate you, our 2021 Central Piedmont  graduates.

Visit the Graduation Services page for more information.

Free Virtual Tax Preparation

Single Stop is partnering with Community Link during the 2021 tax season as Community Link is offering VITA Free Tax Services to eligible participants. If your household income in 2020 was $57,000 or less, you could qualify to have your taxes prepared and submitted through the IRS Volunteer Income TaxAssistance (VITA) program. This year the sites will be 100% virtual. 
You will not need to go to a site this year for your tax preparation – simply choose the sign-up location that is closest to your zip code when you schedule your appointment.
 

Join the Student Forum with Dr. Deitemeyer on April 13

Central Piedmont Community College President, Kandi W. Deitemeyer, Ed. D.

Join Dr. Deitemeyer, president of Central Piedmont, for a discussion about the pandemic, the recent technology disruptions, and her vision for meeting these challenges and conquering possibility.

Dr. Deitemeyer recognizes that this has been a difficult time for the entire college community, and particularly for our students. Come listen to her speak of the inspirational stories of the resilience of our students, faculty and staff, as well as her approach to leadership and her unwavering optimism for the future as we work together as one college to promote student success.

To help Dr. Deitemeyer prepare, please submit your questions for Dr. D by Thursday, April 8.

Student Government Association (SGA) President Logan Jones will moderate.

Join us at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 13 via WebEx.

Expert Tips to Land Your Next Job

student sitting in front of computer in business attireYour next job could be out there waiting for you! Even if you’re not currently looking, its never too early to get prepared and learn valuable skills to help you when the time comes.
Career Services has developed new sessions that provide reliable career resources and expert tips on resumes and interviewing to help you navigate your job search.
Mark your calendars for the Prepare to Connect sessions held April 1 and April 15. Experienced Career Counselors will be available to answer questions and you will receive resume assistance, learn interviewing skills, and gain valuable job search tips. No prior registration is required – join us during on the day and time that works best for your schedule.
 

Thursday, April 1

1:00 – 3:00 PM

 

Resumes – 1:00 pm

Job Search – 1:30 pm

Interviews  – 2:00 pm

Virtual Job Fair How To Tips – 2:30 pm

 

Thursday, April 15

5:30 – 7:30 PM

 

Resumes – 5:30 pm

Job Search – 6:00 pm

Interviews  – 6:30 pm

Virtual Job Fair How To Tips – 7:00 pm

We have several events coming up featuring employers seeking to hire for full-time and part-time positions.  Harper Connect is April 14 and Employer Connect is April 29!
You’ll be able to use these tools at our upcoming Employer Connect week of virtual hiring events held April 14 and April 29. Mark your calendars!

Prepare to Connect Sessions: Resumes, Job Search, and Interview Tips

student engaging in an interviewGet expert tips on resumes, job search, interviewing and what to do during virtual job fairs, like Employer Connect.   We’ve included plenty of time for questions.

No registration is required. Join us during the time and date that works best for your schedule. These are tips you won’t want to miss. Learn more and access the Zoom links for the Prepare to Connect virtual sessions.

 

Tuesday, February 16

2:00 – 4:00 PM

 

Resumes – 2:00 pm

Job Search – 2:30 pm

Interviews  – 3:00 pm

Virtual Job Fair How To Tips – 3:30 pm

Wednesday, February 17

5:30 – 7:30 PM

 

Resumes – 5:30 pm

Job Search – 6:00 pm

Interviews  – 6:30 pm

Virtual Job Fair How To Tips – 7:00 pm

Thursday, February 18

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

 

Resumes – 10:00 am

Job Search – 10:30 am

Interviews  – 11:00 am

Virtual Job Fair How To Tips – 11:30 am

Save the date! Use the new skills you gain during Employer Connect, a week of virtual hiring events: Tuesday, March 2 – Thursday, March 4. Here’s your opportunity to connect with employers seeking to hire for full-time and part-time positions.

Learn more and register for Employer Connect, the virtual career fair. This year’s event is virtual. Watch our video to hear employers discuss what they’re looking for and why you should attend.

Need Financial Aid? Speak to Your Dedicated Counselor

financial aid counselorEvery student has an assigned Financial Aid Specialist. While you are not obligated to interact only with your assigned specialist, your specialist will usually know your file best, and when you always contact the same specialist, this only becomes even more true.

To find your assigned Financial Aid Specialist:

  • Log into MyCollege and select Financial Aid.
  • Your Central Piedmont Financial Aid Specialist’s name, phone number, and direct link to their email is displayed in the “Financial Aid Counselor” section.
  • When communicating with Financial Aid via email, always use your Central Piedmont student email.Using your Central Piedmont email account protects your personal information and allows us to serve you better.

Did you know we also offer virtual one-on-one or group FASFA Workshops to provide you direct support? Learn more about upcoming sessions you can join today!

Practice Mindfulness with Counseling Services

student sitting alone reading a book on Levine CampusLearn to manage stress with Mindfulness. Research has shown the practice of mindfulness helps in many ways, including: gaining better sleep, lowering stress, improving attention, and dealing with depression and anxiety.

Through practice and discussion, learn to strengthen your ability to “begin again” in the present moment. Whether you are brand new to mindfulness or have been practicing for years, these sessions are for you! Designed specifically for students, each session explores a different area of mindful practice.

Save these important dates:

Practicing Self-Care through Mindfulness – Thursday, Feb 18 at 11am

In order to take care of those we love, we must also take care of ourselves. In honor of Valentine’s Day, our theme for this meeting will focus on how to incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine for self-care and general well-being.

Managing Stress with Mindfulness – Thursday, March 18 at 11am

Exams, deadlines, COVID… it’s enough to stress the most relaxed student! Join us to learn how mindfulness practice can help you cope with daily stress and worry.

Mindful Eating – Thursday, April 15 at 11am

This interactive virtual session focuses on mindful eating, which has been shown to ease anxiety, improve digestion, and increase awareness of the mind-body connection for overall wellness. Please bring raisins, fruit, or other small snack to enjoy during our meeting.

Learn more about the events on the Counseling Services event page.

All sessions are held online. The same link is used for all meetings. Request the session links today.  

CATS to Start Testing CityLYNX Gold Line


CATS will begin testing on the CityLYNX Gold Line the week of Feb. 8.

As the city’s streetcars start to frequent its major thoroughfares in the weeks ahead, now is the perfect time to educate yourself on how to be stay safe while on and around the Gold Line by viewing the testing podcast below or knowing the following facts:

  • Streetcars run in the same travel lanes as other vehicles. Listen for bells or horns.
  • It is okay to drive on streetcar tracks, but stay alert.
  • Streetcars cannot stop quickly. Streetcars traveling at 16 mph take almost 100 feet to stop.
  • Streetcars cannot swerve out of the way of pedestrians, cyclists or other vehicles.
  • Obey all traffic signs and signals.
  • Park your entire vehicle, including mirrors, within the solid white parking lines. Streetcars cannot go around your car. Parking outside the lines may interrupt service. Incorrectly parked cars will be subject to towing and a citation.
  • Cross only at designated crosswalks.

Please review these Gold Line resources:

Remember: safety is everyone’s responsibility, so remember to look, listen, and live!

Black History Month Event Series

students in authentic African attire dancing in quad on Central Piedmont campusJoin Central Piedmont Libraries, Student Life, and Man Up male mentoring program throughout February for a series of Black History Month events to learn about some of the many facets of history and culture that have had an impact in shaping the tapestry of black family life. Black History Month acknowledges and celebrates the rich cultural heritage and contributions of Black Americans and their significant role in the designing of “America’s quilt.” The national theme, developed by Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALAH), highlights The Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity.

All events are free and open to all. Check out the event calendar to learn more about how you can celebrate this month.

Jump On Board to Learn Job Strategies that Work

smiling female student sitting across from man in a suit​Finding a job in a virtual environment can be tough.  We invite you to join us for our Jump On Board workshop where we will help you navigate job search strategies that work. These sessions are open to all Central Piedmont students.

Join us Tuesday, Feb. 9 from 5:00 – 6:00​ p.m. via Zoom.

  • Meeting ID: 959 9224 8694
  • Passcode: 128407

Please contact Anita.McGill@cpcc.edu if you have any questions.

New Experiences with Campus Activities Board

students sitting and standing in CAB branded t-shirtsHappy 2021 Central Piedmont students!

 The Campus Activities Board (CAB) is excited for a new year of learning and fun. CAB offers a variety of free programs and activities by students – for students. We value the importance of peer to peer connection outside of the classroom; so, we have worked diligently to transition our offerings online. Be sure to follow us on Instagram for event updates, giveaways, and more! 

 If you are interested in becoming a member of CAB,  apply today! Applications are open to all Central Piedmont students, regardless of campus. Membership is limited, so don’t wait. The application deadline is January 31, 2021, by 5 pm. If you have any questions, contact our advisor, Bryan.Mobley@cpcc.edu

 Additionally, you’re invited to attend our General Board meeting, held each Friday at 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Have a great semester and Happy New Year, 

The Campus Activities Board