HUB Program Reconnects Alumna to Central Piedmont

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Three people standing in front of GRITS red food truck🍴 Central Piedmont recently hosted its first “Chat, Sip, and Chew” event, bringing Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB) specializing in culinary and food services to campus to meet with faculty and staff.

Event Highlights:

  • 24 vendors showcased their businesses and potential partnerships.
  • Jorieka Downey, a 2014 Central Piedmont alumna, was one of the vendors. She shared her inspiring journey of overcoming obstacles to build her successful food truck and catering business, G.R.I.T.S. CLT.

Downey’s Journey:

  • Education: Enrolled in Central Piedmont’s culinary program while juggling two jobs and raising three children.
  • Challenges: Worked third shift, attended classes, and balanced family life.
  • Career Start: Gained experience at Compass Group and formed a crucial business partnership.
  • Business Growth: Started as a caterer, gained popularity at events like the 2019 NBA All-Star Game and the CIAA Basketball Tournament.
  • Viral Success: Went viral with a stuffed turkey leg, garnering over 30,000 views on social media.
  • Celebrity Catering: Catered for concerts featuring Busta Rhymes, 112, Marsha Ambrosius, and more.

Overcoming COVID Challenges:

  • Despite setbacks, Downey used her savings, loans, and grants to purchase her food truck.
  • Awards: Won “Charlotte’s Best Black-owned Food Truck” competition in 2022, judged by notable figures like Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles and Congresswoman Alma Adams.

Resilience and Advice:

  • Setback: Faced a fire that damaged her food truck but continues to persevere.
  • Encouragement: “Stay in it,” Downey advised Central Piedmont students. “If it’s your goal or passion, you have to give it your all. Put your best foot in and never give up.” 🌟

Lowe’s Foundation Awards $1 Million Grant to Central Piedmont’s Skilled Trades Program

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The Lowe's Foundation Announces $50 Million Gable Grants Program to Help Meet Growing Demand for Skilled Tradespeople | Lowe’s Corporate (lowes.com). Central Piedmont requested $1 million as one of only two community colleges in the nation as part of this cohort to receive that amount. We are committing to provide 500 skilled trades certifications over the next two years for entry-level positions in the construction field as part of Lowe's $50 million Gable Grants program to "help meet growing demand for skilled tradespeople" over the next five years (2023-2027). In addition, we will invest in renovations in Harper I and Lowe's Foundation Learning Labs that will be located throughout the County for broader reach and easy access to provide certifications. 

🛠️ Lowe’s Foundation has awarded a $1 million Gable Grant to Central Piedmont to bolster its skilled trades certifications, expand its reach in Mecklenburg County, and undertake renovations at Harper Campus.

Grant Highlights:

  • Central Piedmont is one of just 11 community colleges nationwide to receive this grant this year.
  • The grant will increase educational opportunities for students pursuing construction-related certifications.
  • Renovations include updating lab spaces and introducing mobile learning cottages to various campuses and communities, eliminating transportation barriers.

Program Enhancements:

  • The mobile learning cottages will offer training in construction, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing throughout Charlotte.
  • This initiative is part of Lowe’s Foundation’s $50 million commitment over five years to prepare 50,000 people for skilled trades careers.

Quotes: “Construction and the skilled trades have been part of Central Piedmont’s program offerings since the college opened its doors almost 61 years ago. Our students learn quickly that these are versatile, high-demand careers with endless opportunities for growth and advancement,” said Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, Central Piedmont president. “We are so appreciative of this generous grant from the Lowe’s Foundation. Central Piedmont places a high priority on producing skilled trades professionals who can hit the ground running. We thank the Lowe’s Foundation for partnering with us to help meet a critical need in the Charlotte region.”

Skilled Trade Programs Offered at Central Piedmont:

  • Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration ❄️🔥
  • Construction and Construction Management 🏗️
  • Electrical Systems ⚡
  • Non-destructive Examination 🔍
  • Sustainability Technologies 🌱
  • Utilities and Clean Energy 🔋
  • Welding 🔧

Students can pursue degrees, diplomas, or certificates in these fields, with some accelerated programs offered at no cost.

🔗 For more information about Central Piedmont’s skilled trades programs, visit our website.

Dining Options at Central Piedmont: Fuel for Your Day

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Catalyst Coffee Bar, Harris Campus🍽️ Central Piedmont offers a variety of dining options across all six campuses. Enjoy full-service coffee bars, grab-and-go lunch stations, sandwich shops, breakfast/lunch spots, and more—all cashless. 💳

Need to Use Cash?

  • Purchase vouchers at the Cashiering Business Office on any campus.

Where to Find Food Services:

  • Cato, Central, and Levine Campuses: Full food services available.
  • All Campuses: Coffee bars and grab-and-go lunch stations ☕🥪

Vending Machines:

  • Available at all campuses with snacks, drinks, and microwaveable foods. No need to be hungry! 🍫🥤

Catering Services:

  • Our dining team now offers catering to fit any audience. Request a consultation to tailor your event. Internal and external customers welcome. No event is too small or too large. You won’t be disappointed! 🎉

📅 Review food service menus, locations, and hours.

Campus Stores: Your One-Stop Shop for Everything

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bookstore

🛍️ Central Piedmont Campus Stores are here to serve you! Physical stores are located on Central, Cato, and Levine Campuses, plus, enjoy the convenience of smart lockers at Harris, Harper, and Merancas Campuses for easy delivery.

Why Visit Our Campus Stores?

  • More than just books: Grab your coffee, drinks, snacks, and food options! ☕🍫
  • Free shipping on orders over $50! 🚚✨
  • Use your Financial Aid to shop with ease.

📅 Fall Hours:

  • Jul 29 – Aug 9 (Mon – Fri): 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Aug 10 (Sat): 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Aug 12 – 16 (Mon – Fri): 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Aug 17 (Sat): 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Starting Aug 19 (Mon – Fri): 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

📍 Visit us online to read more about our locations and services.

Navigating College Finances at Central Piedmont

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Understanding how to manage college finances is crucial as you start thinking about your future education. Here’s a guide to help you navigate payment due dates, financial aid, FAFSA, scholarships, and tuition payment plans. Classes start August 12!

student aid

Payment Due Dates

College tuition and fees must be paid by specific deadlines. For example, fall tuition and fees at Central Piedmont are due by Monday, July 29. If you don’t make a payment or arrange a payment plan by this date, your classes will be dropped. Mark your calendar and plan to avoid missing deadlines.

Financial Aid

Financial aid can make college more affordable. It includes grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs. Here’s how to get started:

Completing the FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) determines your eligibility for federal financial aid. Complete the FAFSA every academic year to see how much aid you can get. Central Piedmont’s FAFSA code is 002915.

Scholarships

Scholarships are a fantastic way to reduce college costs. Central Piedmont offers over $3 million in scholarships. Here’s how you can apply:

  1. Search and Apply: Use the Central Piedmont scholarship portal to find and apply for scholarships.
  2. Meet Requirements: Most scholarships require a minimum GPA of 2.0 or 2.5. Ensure you are enrolled in a certificate, diploma, or degree program at Central Piedmont.
  3. Submit Essays: Many scholarship applications include essay questions about your educational and career goals. Write and proofread your answers carefully.

Next NC Scholarship

The Next NC Scholarship is a financial aid program that helps most North Carolinians from households making $80,000 or less pursue higher education by fully covering tuition and fees at any community college or more than half, if not all, of tuition and fees to attend any public college in the state. The best part? It’s money that doesn’t have to be repaid.

It combines the federal Pell Grant with the state-funded financial aid program to form a simplified and predictable scholarship award that is easier to understand. It makes education more affordable so more North Carolinians can pursue a degree.

Key Features of the Next NC Scholarship:

  • Tuition-Free Degree: Qualifying community college students will receive at least $3,000, covering 100% of tuition and fees at any of the 58 North Carolina community colleges.
  • Simple Application: Just submit the FAFSA form. If you’re eligible, you’ll receive the Next NC Scholarship without any additional forms. The priority filing date for NC community colleges is August 15, 2024.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • A North Carolina resident who is eligible for in-state tuition
  • A high school graduate (or high school equivalency completer)
  • From a household with an annual Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $80,000 or less
  • Enrolled in an eligible undergraduate curriculum program for the 2024-2025 academic year
  • Taking at least 6 credit hours per semester (part-time students will receive a partial award)
  • Meeting the Satisfactory Academic Progress standards of the school you plan to attend
  • A student who has completed the 2024-2025 FAFSA with a resulting Student Aid Index (SAI) at or below 7,500

Tuition Payment Plan

A tuition payment plan is a good option if you can’t pay your tuition in full by the deadline. Central Piedmont offers a plan to pay in smaller amounts over time without interest or credit checks. Here’s how it works:

  1. Enroll Online: Sign up for the payment plan through the Central Piedmont portal.
  2. Down Payment: Pay a portion of your tuition upfront, plus a small enrollment fee.
  3. Monthly Payments: Your remaining tuition is divided into monthly payments, automatically drafted from your account.

Key Tips

  • Stay Organized: Keep track of all deadlines and required documents.
  • Apply Early: To increase your chances of receiving financial aid and scholarships, apply as early as possible.
  • Seek Help: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from financial aid counselors if you have questions.

Starting early and staying informed will help you manage college finances and focus on your education. Good luck!

Central Piedmont Earns 10-Year Reaffirmation of Accreditation 🎓🌟

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The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) has reaffirmed the accreditation of Central Piedmont! 🎉 This 10-year reaffirmation follows thorough off-site and on-site reviews of the college and its academic programs.

What This Means:

  • Central Piedmont and its academic programs remain fully accredited 🌟
  • Official notice of reaffirmation received on Jul 1 📅
  • Next reaffirmation process will be in 2033-34 🗓️

Drone aerial photography, Merancas Campus, fall and autumn colors

Compliance: To maintain accreditation, an institution must comply with the standards in the Principles of Accreditation: Foundations for Quality Enhancement and with the policies and procedures of the commission.

Accreditation Significance:

  1. 🎯 Mission: The institution has a mission appropriate to higher education.
  2. 💪 Resources: It has the resources, programs, and services to accomplish and sustain that mission.
  3. 🎓 Educational Objectives: It maintains clear educational objectives consistent with its mission and appropriate to the degrees it offers, ensuring success in achieving its stated objectives.

Central Piedmont’s reaffirmation is a testament to its commitment to excellence in education! 🎓📚

Central Piedmont Students Receive Tool Sets and Cash Supplements Thanks to Faison Enterprises Grant 🎉🛠️

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Thanks to a generous grant from Faison Enterprises, Inc., 70 Central Piedmont students in the Construction Management, Electrical Systems Technology, and Welding programs received tool sets valued at nearly $500 to help jump-start their careers.

Tool Sets Include:

Backpacks of tools provided to Central Piedmont students by Faison

  •  🥽 Safety glasses
  • 🪖 Helmets
  • 📏 Measuring tapes
  • 🎒 Backpacks
  • 🌟 And more!

Central Piedmont instructors handpicked the tools to ensure they are perfect for students beginning their careers.

💵 Each student also received a $750 cash supplement to use as they need for their academic and career journey.

📣 Student Reactions:

  • “This is an amazing gift,” said Colton Droke, an Electrical Systems Technology student. “I didn’t have the money to afford something like this. I’ve been using my grandfather’s toolbox, which is more like a tackle box, and a variety of hand-me-down tools. I’ll use this every day.” 🥳
  • “This will help me immediately,” added Farris Robertson, a dual enrollment student studying carpentry. “I’m very grateful because I would have had to purchase this out of my own pocket, and now I can use that money elsewhere.” 🙌

Community Impact: “Faison is very excited to partner with Central Piedmont and launch this pilot program,” said Kris Fetter, President and CEO of Faison. “Central Piedmont is such an important institution serving the Charlotte community. We want these students to receive the best education in these fields of study so they can enter the workforce and have a productive, meaningful career.”

Central Piedmont Launches High School Instructor Certificate Program 🎓📝

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Teaching Central Piedmont studentsCentral Piedmont is excited to announce a new opportunity for bachelor’s degree graduates who aspire to teach part-time in North Carolina high schools.

Program Highlights:

  • Certificate Program: The High School Adjunct Instructor certificate program focuses on developing the general pedagogy and competencies needed to teach in public high schools.
  • Coursework Includes:
    • Classroom management and pedagogy
    • Effective instructional methods
    • Foundations of education
    • Educational technology
    • And more!
  • Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Application: Apply through the College Foundation of North Carolina website

Contact Information: For more details, reach out to Jennifer Perkins, Program Chair of K-12 Education.

📞 “As a provider of K-12 teacher preparation programs, Central Piedmont can impact the current teaching shortage in the Charlotte region and across North Carolina,” Perkins said. “The high school adjunct instructor certificate program is a direct path to prepare those interested in teaching part-time by providing the coursework and support to be successful in a high school classroom.”

Join us in shaping the future of education! 🌟📚

Culinary Students Serve Up Free Samples from Mobile Learning Kitchen 🚚🍴

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Community members eating treats from the Mobile Learning Kitchen on Central CampusSome of Central Piedmont’s culinary students from the Line Cooking Essentials Class, under the guidance of our talented Chef Anwar Cooper, are mastering the art of operating a food truck this semester. They’re excited to share their culinary creations with the community!

📍 Location: Central Campus, outside the Parr Center
🕠 Time: 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. (or until samples run out)
🍴Days of Service:

  • Thu, Jul 11
  • Tue, Jul 16
  • Thu, Jul 18

Come support our culinary students, enjoy delicious free samples, and connect with the Central Piedmont community. It’s a tasty way to get involved and savor the vibrant campus life! 🌟 ​

💡Reminder: Student Email Now on Outlook ✉️

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IT Services employee assisting a student at the help deskOver the summer, Central Piedmont transitioned from Google to Microsoft 365, and all student mailboxes and Drive data have successfully migrated.

📧 New Email: All student mailboxes are now on Outlook.

📂 Drive Data: Your Google Drive data is fully accessible in your new Microsoft 365 account. If you’re new to navigating M365, check out these Microsoft 365 Tools and Applications.

🌐 Resources: We have answered lots of your frequently asked questions and put the most requested knowledgebase articles in one place.

🌟 Learn More: Enhance your Microsoft skills on LinkedIn Learning.

💻 Support: Need help? Contact the Service Desk for technical assistance.

For quick answers, browse the Service Desk client portal and review the knowledge base. If you cannot find the answer to your question, please submit a ticket. Getting a ticket started will speed up the process of getting service from ITS.

🗣️ New Students: Learn about Next Steps for Admission📝

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Four students on Central Campus, smiling with the skyline behind themEducation is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor, and Central Piedmont has a variety of options to help you achieve your goals. The type of student you are dictates the enrollment steps you need to complete during the admission process, and we want to make sure you have all of the resources you need to complete those steps quickly. So, we’re offering 30-minute virtual Q&A sessions dedicated to navigating the enrollment process. ✨

What We’ll Cover:

  • 📋 Step-by-step walkthrough of the enrollment process
  • ❓ Q&A to address any of your concerns
  • 🔗 Resources to get you started on the right foot

Choose a Date and Time:

Don’t miss out on these helpful sessions! 🌟 Let’s make your enrollment process smooth and stress-free. See you there! 😊👋

🎉New Accommodate Platform is Live! 🎉

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A student visits a table to speak with a member of the office of Disability ServicesCentral Piedmont Accommodate is now live! This new software platform makes it easier than ever to connect with Disability and Access Services (DAS) and submit accommodation letters to your instructors. 📅✨

🛠️ Getting Started with Accommodate:

  • Check out our step-by-step guide, complete with screenshots, to help you navigate the new system effortlessly.

❓ Questions or Concerns?

At Central Piedmont, we are dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students. 🌟📚

Indulge in Breakfast Tacos Prepared by the Food Truck 101 Class 🍴🚚

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A student manning the mobile learning kitchenJoin the Food Truck 101 Class featuring our amazing Central Piedmont instructor, Anwar Cooper, and his talented students as they sample breakfast tacos! 🌮✨

🗓️ Date: Tue., June 25th
🕒 Time: 4:45 PM – 6:00 PM (or until samples run out)
📍 Location: Central Campus, Philip L. Van Every Culinary Arts Center, on the lawn

Don’t miss out on this tasty opportunity to support our budding chefs and enjoy some delicious food. See you there! 😋🎉

Important Notice: Registration and Payment System Closure 🔒

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Group of students sitting on the stairs inside the Parr CenterHeads up! Due to year-end processing, our registration and payment systems will be down from Wed., June 26 at 6 p.m. until Mon., July 1 at 7 a.m.

What You Can Still Do to Prepare for the Fall Semester During the Outage:

Please Note: The college can still process transcripts and take in-person cash and check payments during the planned outage, just no credit cards.

Fall registration is now open, and you can register online before or after the temporary closure.

Need help? Call 704-330-2722 or email navigate@cpcc.edu. 🤝

Exciting News: Hendrick Automotive Group Donates Land for New Training Facility 🚨

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Hendrick Automotive Group logo

Central Piedmont is thrilled to announce a generous gift of approximately 23 acres of land from Hendrick Automotive Group and local business leader Rick Hendrick. This land, adjacent to the Levine Campus, will be used to build a state-of-the-art first responder training facility.

Highlights:

  • Long-standing Partnership: This donation continues the partnership that began with the Joe Hendrick Center for Automotive Technology in 2006.
  • Comprehensive Training: The new facility will include law enforcement, fire and rescue, EMS, forensics, and telecommunicator training areas, with both indoor and outdoor spaces. Central Piedmont offers a Public Safety Administration associate degree, providing multiple tracks for students to pursue careers in various public safety fields.
  • Phased Construction: The first phase opens in 2027, with the second phase following in 2028.

Statements:

  • Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, Central Piedmont President: “This generous gift allows us to build a first responder training facility in southeast Mecklenburg County.”
  • Rick Hendrick, Hendrick Automotive Group CEO: “We are delighted to support the growth of Central Piedmont and its Levine Campus. The new facility will be a world-class training center for first responders.”

Read the full press release here.

Advisory: MyCollege Scheduled Maintenance 🛠️

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Central Piedmont’s Information Technology Services (ITS) will conduct scheduledStudent on a computer in the library maintenance on the MyCollege system starting Fri., June 21, at 12:00 p.m. This maintenance will continue until Mon., June 24, at 8:00 a.m. During this period, MyCollege will be unavailable.

Please make sure to complete any necessary tasks in MyCollege before the maintenance begins. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this time.

Coming Soon: New Software Platform for Disability and Access Services! 📢💻

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A sign language interpreter providing services for a student in the classroomStarting Mon., Jul. 1, Central Piedmont is launching an exciting new software platform to streamline the process for students requesting or renewing accommodations through Disability and Access Services (DAS).

🚀 What’s New?

  • Simplified Process: The new system will make it easier for students to connect with DAS and submit accommodation letters to their instructors.
  • Single Sign-On (SSO): Use your SSO to access your account, review approved accommodations, and submit semester requests for classes.

📚 Support and Assistance:

  • Detailed information will be provided on how to use the new platform in the coming weeks.
  • The Disability Support Services team will offer ongoing support throughout the transition.

💡 Why This Matters: This new platform will enhance Central Piedmont’s ability to support students with disabilities, ensuring they receive the accommodations needed to succeed academically.

📞 Questions or Concerns?

Stay tuned for more updates! 🌟

Career Services Summer Offerings 🌞

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An employer talking to a student at a career fair table

Central Piedmont’s Career Services is here to support your career journey all summer long! Whether you’re searching for a job, choosing a program of study, or preparing for interviews, we’ve got you covered.

📅 Appointments: Schedule in-person or virtual meetings with a Career Counselor at any of our campus locations via Handshake.

🕒 Summer Drop-In Hours: This summer, students and graduates can drop by Career Center at Central Campus, Central High 206 to get help with career questions without an appointment. Summer drop-in hours are Mon-Thurs, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m and will be in effect through July 26.

💻 Online Resources: Utilize Handshake for job searches, Big Interview for interview practice, and Career Coach for exploring study programs and career opportunities.

🎉 Events: Check Handshake’s Event section for over 50 virtual events, including sessions about careers with the FBI, at Bank of America, and in healthcare.

For more details and resources, visit Central Piedmont Career Services.

Student Spotlight: Shania Johnson 🌟

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Headshot of Shania JohnsonShania Johnson, a first-generation college student from Charlotte, NC, embodies resilience and determination.

After graduating from Garinger High School in 2020, she attended UNC Greensboro. Despite an impressive start, she faced mental health struggles and the unexpected passing of her father.

Realizing she needed a change, Shania returned to Charlotte and enrolled at Central Piedmont in Spring 2023.

🌟 Highlights:

  • Peer Mentor: In TRIO Student Support Services (TRIO-SSS), Shania built meaningful relationships and grew personally.
  • Academic Success: Graduated with an Associate in Arts in psychology, with aspirations to eliminate stigmas around mental health therapy in minority communities.

💬 Her Journey: “Attending Central Piedmont helped me understand that everyone’s path is different, and that doesn’t lessen your personal accomplishments,” Shania shared.

This fall, Shania will start her social work degree at UNC Charlotte. 🎓🌟