Brightspace Orientation

White B inside orange circle: logo for Brightspace by D2LAre you nervous about taking your first online course in Brightspace, Central Piedmont’s Learning Management System course?

We can help! Our one-hour virtual instructional sessions will give you hands-on experience with Brightspace. Review the Brightspace practice sessions schedule and register today.

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.

Make sure you are signed up with Duo, so you have access to attend.

Our goal is to ensure you are comfortable with the tools you need to succeed in class. We can’t wait to see you there!

Veteran to Visionary: Edwin Quarles’ Honorable Journey Through Education and Service at Central Piedmont

Edwin Quarles💡 Edwin Quarles, a distinguished Air Force veteran and Town Commissioner for Huntersville embarked on an extraordinary academic journey at Central Piedmont Community College. As a December 2023 graduate🎓 , Edwin’s decision to enroll at Central Piedmont was driven by the institution’s outstanding reputation as one of the nation’s premier community colleges. He reflects on his choice, stating, “I chose Central Piedmont Community College because it was said to be the best community college in the nation. I also heard from several graduates that the professors had the students’ best interest at heart.”

Pursuing an Associate in Arts degree, he strived to leverage his education to assist fellow veterans in accessing the benefits they rightfully deserve. Edwin’s dedication to veterans is a testament to his unwavering sense of duty and service, a value deeply rooted in his military experience.👏

One of the hallmarks of his time at Central Piedmont was the exceptional faculty who not only imparted knowledge but also kept him engaged and inspired. “I enjoyed my professors. Each kept me engaged, which made learning at such an older age easy and fun,” Edwin shares.🤩

Edwin’s aspirations extend to a career in the social service field, where he envisions himself playing a pivotal role in supporting veterans and contributing to the betterment of his community. His advice to future Central Piedmont students resonates with his own journey: “Set a goal; stay focused; apply yourself; and seek understanding and clarity from your professors. I used that formula after being away from a classroom setting for 30 years and was able to graduate from my program with honors.” ⭐

Central Piedmont Community College, for Edwin, is more than an institution; it’s a source of belief and inspiration. “Central Piedmont helped me Conquer Possibility by giving me the belief that I can achieve and be successful,” he reflects. The familial atmosphere and the genuine care exhibited by professors transformed his educational experience.

✈️ “I am an Air Force Veteran. I retired as an entrepreneur twelve years ago. I decided to take the challenge of getting a degree. I accomplished that challenge,” he proudly declares. His path also led him to engage in local politics, becoming a Commissioner for the Town of Huntersville during his time at Central Piedmont.

Edwin’s story, intertwined with service, learning, and leadership, is a true embodiment of the diverse experiences and opportunities that Central Piedmont Community College offers to its students and the communities it serves.

STEM Tank Season 5 Applications

STEM TankCentral Piedmont students, get ready for STEM Tank Season 5! This program is aimed at enhancing your STEM skills, like critical thinking and problem-solving, with a focus on increasing diversity in STEM fields. Here’s what to expect:

  • Deadline: Apply by Thurs., Feb. 9, or until filled.
  • Kickoff Meeting: Attend in person on Wed., Feb. 29, from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • Workshops: Participate in four workshops.
    • Tuesdays – Mar. 14, Mar. 21, Mar. 28, and Apr. 4
    • 3:30 p.m. 4:30 p.m.
  • Team Project: Work in groups to tackle a community problem using STEM, with a commitment of about 57 hours per week.
  • Final Presentation: Present your solution on Wed., Apr. 12, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Community Service: Join on either Wed., Apr. 19, or Wed., Apr. 26.
  • Stipend and Prizes: Earn $125 for full participation, with additional prizes for the top projects.

Don’t miss this opportunity to develop your STEM skills and add an impressive experience to your resume. Apply now!

Ruth G. Shaw Center for Academic Success & Excellence is Here to Help Students

tutoringThe Ruth G. Shaw Center for Academic Success & Excellence welcomes you to the spring 2024 semester. We are excited to help you experience success at the highest level. Here are a few updates to assist you in navigating our unit for support.

  • Access to Academic Support – Access the ASC Academic Support platform and make appointments through Brightspace! Our updated ASC website provides simple & clear instructions on how to make appointments, access online virtual sessions, use Brainfuse, view the ASC calendar, and more.
  • In-Person Appointments – Make an in-person appointment with an ASC tutor on campus (Central, Cato, or Levine.)
  • Virtual ASC Appointments – Make a virtual appointment with an ASC tutor today.
  • Brainfuse Online Appointments – Utilize Brainfuse. Each curriculum-enrolled student receives 200 minutes of time to use Brainfuse for after-hours and weekend academic support.
  • Additional Faculty Tutors – There are additional faculty providing outside tutoring from class time at various campuses. Availability varies. Click here to view the list of those offering additional academic support this upcoming spring 2024 semester. 

You can find step-by-step links and guides on how to use each part of the academic support platform.

Please contact our office for any additional assistance: (704) 330-6474 or asc@cpcc.edu.

Central Piedmont Launches Application Cycle for Coca-Cola Consolidated Apprenticeship Program

coca-cola apprenticeship

Students can now apply for the Coca-Cola Consolidated Apprenticeship Program. This hands-on learning opportunity is designed to “earn and learn,” providing paid apprenticeships to

 stimulate interest in high-demand manufacturing, equipment repair, and logistics positions.

Application Cycle Now Open:

Central Piedmont is accepting interest inquiries for the program, which begins in Summer 2024 and spans 12 months.

During the program, apprentices will work approximately 20 hours weekly while completing three to four college courses each semester. Apprentices will transition to full-time positions upon successful completion of the program.

Program Details
Eligible applicants will gain paid experience through part-time roles at Coca-Cola Consolidated and its transportation subsidiary Red Classic Transportation, alongside financial support for career certificates, preparing them for positions such as:

The fundamental requirement for these apprenticeships is a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification.

Information Sessions:
Central Piedmont invites prospective candidates to attend an Information Session.

In-person and virtual attendance options:

Virtual only:

For complete program information, visit cpcc.edu/coke.

FBLA Attends Career Connections Conference

FBLA Career Connections ConferenceCentral Piedmont Community College proudly acknowledges the participation of seven of our Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) students at the esteemed Career Connections Conference hosted by the FBLA National Organization. Held in uptown Charlotte from November 30 to December 2, this event was one of just two nationwide.

Our representatives, Caleb Carr, Mary Enoch, Jose Esquit, Eric Garcia, Genchen Hang, Tomo Kaneko, and Stephane Monichon, engaged in a series of networking activities, workshops, and office tours, interacting with business leaders and gaining insights into professional skills like interviewing and networking.

The conference provided an invaluable opportunity for our students to connect with other FBLA chapters across the country and learn from industry professionals at First Citizens Bank and BDO USA. Their participation exemplified the professionalism and talent of Central Piedmont students, and we thank the Student Government Association for their support in this endeavor.

MLA Formatting workshop

Students work at laptops in a library

It’s essay writing season! Correct citations in your essays are important, and MLA formatting can be tricky.

If you need to brush up on your skills, or if you’re using MLA for the first time, attend the Academic Learning Center’s “MLA Boot Camp” workshop:

Questions? Email mary.keller@cpcc.edu

 

You don’t have to struggle- get help for your classes

Struggle no more! Central Piedmont wants to help provide all the tools you need to be successful in your classes. The Academic Learning Center (ALC) provides so many different ways to help you study and learn the material from your classes, outside of your instructor and the class.

Learn how to access all the Academic Learning Center support (directions).

Use these links to learn more about how to:

Mural of History event Sept. 21

Colorful wall mural of faces and icons of Central Piedmont

A portion of the Parr Center mural

Central Piedmont is marking it’s 60th anniversary on Sept. 18. As part of that celebration, you’re invited to a panel discussion of the Central Piedmont Mural of History.

Using the mural in the Parr Center as a focus, this discussion will spotlight:
  • the art and artists behind the work
  • the collaboration between the artists and the Central Piedmont archives
  • the use of art to convey historical content
  • the history of Central Piedmont within the larger world
The panel will include archivist Erin Allsop, gallery coordinator Amelia Zytka, art instructor Mary Kilburn, and three members of our history department (instructors Nerlynn Etienne and Noah Goode, and professor Hugh Dussek).

Health Professions and Human Services Open House Sept. 19

Two occupational therapy students practice getting out of bed supported by a walker.

Occupational Therapy

Still undecided on a program of study?

Join us Tuesday, Sept. 19 at our Health Professions and Human Sevices open house to learn more about all of our program options.

You’ll have an opportunity to:

  • discover our 21 healthcare programs such as medical assisting, massage therapy, physical therapist assistant, or occupational therapy assistant
  • meet inspiring faculty 
  • immerse yourself in real-world experiences 
  • visit our state-of-the-art labs and classrooms 
  • learn more about scholarship and financial aid information
A student messages a patient using her hand and elbow on their back.

Massage Therapy

We can’t wait to see you there!

  • Tuesday, September 19, 2023
  • 5 – 7 p.m.
  • Central Campus, Health Careers Building

Registration: Please complete this form to register for our open house.

New tutoring and academic support options

Two students and an employee studying and working together to learn.The Academic Learning Center (ALC) has launched new tutoring options to help you be successful in your classes, with choices to get academic support throughout the day, evening, and on weekends.

You have two options to receive academic support. You can make an appointment with an ALC tutor right here on campus for either in-person or virtual support during the day.
You can also make a virtual appointment with a Brainfuse tutor, for appointments after 5 p.m. in the evenings, and on weekends.

Review the full student user guide for all the details, and learn how to:

  • Access the ALC Academic Support Platform
  • Make an appointment with an ALC Tutor using Tutor Match
  • Make an appointment with a Brainfuse tutor using Live Help

Here are a few important things to keep in mind:

  • You must login to Brightspace to access the ALC Academic Support Platform
  • You will find the ALC Academic Support link under the “Student Resources” widget in Brightspace, or directly through your live courses in Brightspace (if your instructor added it to your live course).

You can also visit us at one of our locations:

  • Central Campus: Parr Center, Level 2, Suite 2130
  • Levine Campus: Levine III, Room 2520
  • Cato Campus: Cato II, Room 270

If you have any questions, please contact the ALC by phone 704.330.6422 or via e-mail alc@cpcc.edu.

Summer 2023 Dean’s and President’s Lists

Congratulations to all the students who made the latest President’s and Dean’s lists.

These students made the lists based on their grades from summer 2023 classes, and took at least 12 credit hours of college-level classes with no Incomplete (“I”) or Withdraw (“W”) grades. They are placed on either the DSummer 2023 President's List and Dena's List Available nowean’s list or President’s list based on their grade point average (GPA) for the semester.

Summer 2023 Dean’s List students have achieved a minimum of a 3.5 GPA for the semester.

Summer 2023 President’s List students have achieved a 4.0 GPA for the semester.

Volunteer for Patient Simulation for Healthcare Students

Student in EMT program takes the blood pressure of a medical mannequin.Health Professions and Human Services is launching a Standardized Participant (SP) program, and we are seeking enthusiastic volunteers from Central Piedmont to participate and contribute to this invaluable initiative.

Standardized participants are individuals trained to portray various roles, such as patient and family members, in specific medical scenarios and patient cases for the purpose of teaching and evaluating healthcare students. By volunteering as a standardized participant, you will play an essential role in training our health profession students to enhance their communication skills, clinical examinations, and overall patient care abilities. As an SP, you will have the opportunity to simulate diverse clinical encounters, providing our students with realistic scenarios to practice their skills in a safe and controlled environment.

Participating in our SP program not only benefits our Health Professions and Human Services students, but it also offers tremendous personal and professional growth opportunities for you. You will gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare field, develop empathy and effective communication skills, and contribute to the education of future healthcare providers.

Simulations will take place at Central Campus. Our goal is to recruit and train of a pool of potential volunteers that we can pull from, and you will be able to volunteer for days/times that work for your schedule. We are seeking a wide range of diversity for our simulations, so all ages, and demographics are encouraged to volunteer.

If you are interested in volunteering as a standardized participant, please email Jay Bianco for more information.

Priority Registration for Fall 2023 begins April 28

Two students look over work in a lab, holding a pipette and a test tube.

Priority registration for fall 2023 classes begins Friday, April 28, depending on the number of credits you have completed. Make sure you have consulted your advisor and are prepared with which classes you should take. (Summer registration is ongoing, with seats still available for classes that begin May 17.)

Do you have money lined up for school? There is money available to help you pay for school that you don’t have to pay back. You should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) every year, to see if you’re eligible. Apply for the 2023-24 school year now, and use our school code: 002915. You can also log into the Central Piedmont scholarship portal to apply for scholarships.

If you owe more than $200 in tuition for a term, the new Tuition Payment Plan will help spread out your bill into smaller payments.

Need help with anything? Email navigate@cpcc.edu (en Español: ayuda@cpcc.edu) or call 704.330.2722.

Polysomnography program helps others through the healing power of sleep

Polysomnography tech places sensors on a patient's head, while the patient is laying down in bed propped up on pillows.Dreaming about training in a program with a 100% job placement rate and 100% exam pass rate?

Look no further than Central Piedmont’s polysomnography program. We will prepare you to work with physicians to perform and interpret sleep studies to diagnose sleep related disorders.

You will gain necessary skills to perform sleep studies, including recording and interpreting events observed during sleep, providing clinical evaluations, and treatment of sleep disorders.

You can earn an Associate in Applied Science Degree, and finish the program in five semesters. 100% of our 2021 graduates were hired after finishing the program. Learn more about the polysomnography program from our students, and how they help others through the healing power of sleep:

Paralegal Technology Open House March 28

Paralegal technology students stands in front of law library shelf of booksJoin us for an Open House for Paralegal Technology as we move our program back to Central Campus with the addition of the new law library in the Parr Center.

Drop in, meet & greet, and learn more about us:

  • Tuesday, March 28, 5- 7:30 p.m.
  • Central Campus, Parr Center
  • Library, Second Floor, Room 2160 (Event Space)

The Paralegal Technology program at Central Piedmont is American Bar Association (ABA) Approved*  with both two-year degree and post-baccalaureate diploma program options.

Questions? Contact 704.330.4865.

*Paralegals may not practice law or give legal advice, except where permitted by law.

Free Health Science Support for English Language Learners

Nursing student in scrubs and blue gloves with an IV fluids bag.

Is English your second language? Help is available for non-native English speakers enrolled in MED 121 or other related health science courses at the new Health Science Guided Support
Lab at Central Campus.

This lab will support English language learning skills needed for MED 121 Medical Terminology I. The lab is a FREE resource for those looking for extra help and successfully completing their MED 121 Medical Terminology I.

The guided lab will focus on providing opportunities to:

  • practice English in the context of Health Sciences
  • cover mini lessons
  • offer support on class platforms
  • assist with assignments
  • introduce study tips

Interested students must attend an appointment with Uzma Shadid to learn about lab requirements, and to get help signing up for the lab, if you meet eligibility requirements. 
Sign up for your appointment to learn more about Health Sciences Guided Support Lab.

If eligible for the free lab, you will attend on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4-6 p.m. at the Health Sciences Guided Support Lab, located on Central Campus, North Classroom Building, Room 2127.

Apply for Central Piedmont Honors Program

Central Piedmont is launching an Honors Program beginning in fall 2023.

Honors Program Scholars will be required to complete 15 credit hours in Honors Program course sections, a 30 hour immersive experience, and 10 activities or events–including interview and resume sessions–that emphasize the Honors Program foundations.

Honors Program Scholars will participate in several foundations of learning:

  • experiential learning to “learn by doing”
  • research, scholarship and innovation to develop problem solving skills
  • civic engagement and global learning to create diverse, equitable, and positive change in our community
  • leadership development
  • reflective thinking for increased self-awareness

Priority applications are now being accepted for the Central Piedmont Honors Program through March 24, 2023, with notification by April 28. Students who submit applications between March 25- May 31 will receive a decision notification by July 7.

Learn more about the application and apply today.

The Honors Program is supported through the generosity of Truist Bank.

Questions may be directed to Dr. Deninne Pritchett, faculty director of the Honors Program at honorsprogram@cpcc.edu.

Cosmetology March special- $5 services!

Central Piedmont Cosmetology at City View is providing all services for only $5 for the month of March. Cosmetology students in uniform pose casually outside of the City View Center

YES, each service is five dollars! 

This offer is extended to all Central Piedmont employees and students.  Your employee or student photo ID is required to secure this price.

Graduating students in the Cosmetology Program are completing their portfolios and would love to showcase images of their work including hair, skin and nail services with the support of the Central Piedmont family.

Walk-ins are welcomed but scheduling an appointment is preferred.  The salon clinic is opened Tuesday – Friday, please call 704.330.5455.

Please visit the Cosmetology webpage for more information on the salon hours and service offerings. 

For the month of March, the salon clinic will be open March 1-3, closed March 7-10, open March 14-17, open March 21-24, and open March 28-31.

Train for a high-demand career in Nondestructive Examination

For pipes, bridges, airplanes, energy production, and for so many manufacturing parts, infrastructure must be examined for cracks, leaks, and problems before they occur. The industry that carefully examines this critical infrastructure is called nondestructive examination (NDE), because it uses testing methods like ultrasound, magnetic particles, and x-rays to see inside components for problems, without destroying or damaging the piece.

This career is only growing with aging infrastructure in the US, and skills you learn can be applied across many industries with a median salary of $65,236.

Central Piedmont is one of only a handful of schools in the nation that offers an associate degree in nondestructive examination, and our program teaches six different testing techniques. Graduates from Central Piedmont have more than a 90% employment rate in the industry. 

Central Piedmont’s nondestructive examination technology program will train you to be a valuable asset in both product manufacturer and service inspection industries through hands-on learning in both classroom and lab settings. 

Learn more about the NDE program from one of our students: