Complimentary Dishes from the Mobile Learning Kitchen! ๐Ÿšš๐Ÿฝ๏ธ

Students working the mobile learning kitchenCentral Piedmontโ€™s Mobile Learning Kitchen and line cooking class will be serving up complimentary dishes to students and employees from Jun. 25โ€“Jul. 18 on Central Campus, in front of the Parr Center.

๐Ÿ•’ Food Truck Schedule: The food truck will be open from 4:30โ€“6:30 p.m., or until all samples are passed out, on the following days:

  • Tue., Jun. 25
  • Thu., Jun. 27
  • Tue., Jul. 2
  • Wed., Jul. 3
  • Tue., Jul. 9
  • Thu., Jul. 11
  • Tue., Jul. 16
  • Thu., Jul. 18

๐Ÿ’ฌ Recent Reviews:

  • โ€œI recently had the opportunity to have a great meal from the food truck! They were very accommodating to my vegetarian diet, as well. I would love to experience more meals.โ€
  • “The food tonight was amazing. The meal was extremely well-seasoned and prepared with care. The service was high quality. The students appeared more like professionals with vast experience.”
  • “Breakfast tacos were the bomb, 10/10. The only change would be to add cheese but it was delicious regardless. Customer service 10/10. Portions are a really good size. Gravy and biscuits were 10/10, the best meal yet. All the flavors were balanced and harmonious. The biscuits were extra soft and fluffy, and reminded me of the cheddar bay ones from Red Lobster. Loved it.”

Donโ€™t miss out on this delicious opportunity to enjoy free meals and support your fellow students! ๐Ÿ”๐ŸŒฎ๐Ÿ

May Issue of Central Piedmont Archives Newsletter Now Available

The latest issue of “For The Record,” the Central Piedmont Archives newsletter, is now available!

๐Ÿ“… Highlights of this issue:

Headshot of Gloria Kelley, which is used as the newsletter's cover photo

  • ๐ŸŽ“ Spotlight on Gloria Kelley
  • ๐Ÿ“œ A look back at the Jun. 1964 commencement ceremony of the Beatty’s Ford Road Campus
  • ๐Ÿ—‚๏ธ Updates on the processing of Dr. Ruth G. Shaw’s presidential papers
  • ๐Ÿค Celebrations of the two volunteers, contributing their time over the summer
  • ๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ Erin and Johnamarie’s trip to the State Archives for the SNCA 2024 Annual Meeting

๐Ÿ“– How to access the newsletter: Visit our digital collections and click the “view” button to expand the document.

๐Ÿ“ง Interested in collaborating with the Archives or learning more about our institutional history?

Virtual Information Session: Paying for College with the Next NC Scholarship ๐Ÿ’ฐ

Next NC logo

Join us for an informative virtual session on financial aid! We’ll cover essential details about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Next NC Scholarship. This session is designed to help students and their families understand the application processes, eligibility criteria, and benefits of these financial aid opportunities. Learn how to maximize your financial aid options and make college more affordable.

Session Details:

  • ๐Ÿ—“ Date & Time:
    • June 6 at 10 a.m.
    • June 11 at 2 p.m.
    • June 20 at 11 a.m.
  • ๐Ÿ“ Location: Online; registration is required
    • The Microsoft Teams meeting link will be in your confirmation email

Don’t miss this opportunity to make your college education more affordable! ๐Ÿ’ธ

Final Reminder: FAFSA Night at Cato Campus ๐ŸŽ“

FAFSA Federal Student Aid logoJoin us for FAFSA Night and unlock your financial aid potential. Get hands-on help completing your FAFSA, ensuring you don’t miss out on any financial support.

Event Details:

  • ๐Ÿ—“ Date: Wed., May 29 from 6 to 8 p.m.
  • ๐Ÿ“ Location: Cato Campus, Building I, Rooms 220/221
  • ๐Ÿค Inclusivity: Spanish-speaking staff available
  • ๐Ÿš€ Secure Your Spot: Registration is required

Why Attend?

  • Personalized assistance with FAFSA applications
  • Access to federal, state, and institutional financial aid, including grants, loans, work-study, and scholarships
  • Ensure you meet the Aug. 15 priority deadline for the 2024-2025 academic year

Don’t miss this opportunity to get the financial support you need! ๐Ÿ’ฐ

Spring 2024 Dean’s List and President’s List Now Available ๐ŸŒŸ

Students learning in a classroomCentral Piedmont is proud to celebrate all the hardworking students who made it to the Dean’s List and President’s List for the Spring 2024 semester.

Dean’s List honorees achieved a 3.50 or greater GPA, with no Incomplete (“I”) or Withdraw (“W”) grades, and completed at least 12 hours of credit in courses numbered 100 through 299.

President’s List honorees achieved a 4.00 GPA, with no Incomplete (“I”) or Withdraw (“W”) grades, and completed at least 12 hours of credit in courses numbered 100 through 299.

๐ŸŽ‰ Celebrate and Share: Join us in celebrating the accomplishments of your classmates! Congratulate your peers on their dedication and hard work. ๐ŸŽ“๐ŸŒŸ

Reminder: FAFSA Night at Cato Campus ๐ŸŽ“

FAFSA Federal Student Aid logoDon’t miss out! Join us for FAFSA Night to unlock your financial aid potential. Get hands-on help completing your FAFSA, ensuring you don’t miss out on any financial support.

๐Ÿ—“ย Date:ย Wed., May 29, 2024
๐Ÿ“ย Location:ย Cato Campus, Building I, Rooms 220/221
๐Ÿคย Inclusivity: Spanish-speaking staff available
๐Ÿš€ย Secure Your Spot:ย Registration is required

๐Ÿ“… Why Attend?

  • Personalized assistance with FAFSA applications
  • Get access to federal, state, and institutional financial aid, including grants, loans, work-study, and scholarships
  • Ensure you meet the Aug. 15 priority deadline for the 2024-2025 academic year

๐ŸŽ“ Meet Ndianor Gbandala: From Liberia to Central Piedmont Graduation Speaker ๐ŸŒ

2024 Commencement Speaker Ndianor Gbandala in a white coat and gogglesNdianor Gbandala, an international student from Monrovia, Liberia, not only excelled as a Medical Laboratory Technology student at Central Piedmont but was also one of your May ’24 graduation speakers. Her journey to Central Piedmont began with her search for a welcoming atmosphere and a convenient downtown Charlotte location, which offered easy access to essential services and a supportive community where international students can thrive and feel at home.

A Passion Ignited by Scienceย ๐Ÿ”ฌ

Inspired by her father’s career in pharmacy, Ndianor’s passion for the sciences was further fueled by a microbiology class at Central Piedmont. This experience guided her toward a degree in Medical Laboratory Technology. “The role of laboratory professionals in healthcare drew me in; I saw a way to directly impact patient outcomes through science,” she notes.

A Transformative Experienceย ๐ŸŒŸ

Ndianor’s time at Central Piedmont has been nothing short of transformative. She values the supportive learning environment, the mentorship from dedicated faculty, and the friendships that have nurtured her both personally and professionally. “The combination of a supportive community, enriching experiences, and quality education has made my time at Central Piedmont truly rewarding,” she shares.

Looking Ahead: Goals and Aspirationsย ๐Ÿฅ

Ndianor Gbandala at the podium, speaking during the 2024 Central Piedmont graduation commencement

With her degree in hand, Ndianor aims to become a Medical Laboratory Technician in a hospital setting, where she can contribute to diagnosing and treating diseases. She is also committed to furthering her education and advancing in her field. Her advice to future students? “Embrace every learning opportunity, seek help when needed, and always be open to new experiences. Central Piedmont provides a platform for growth and self-discovery; use it well.”

Preparing to Inspire ๐ŸŽค

Ndianor reflected on her academic and personal growth at Central Piedmont as she prepared to address her peers at the 10 a.m. graduation commencement: “This college has not only helped me fine-tune my career path but also equipped me with the confidence to face future challenges in healthcare.” Her story highlights the impact of dedication to education and active community engagement. ๐ŸŒ๐ŸŽ“

Transition to Microsoft 365 Complete! ๐ŸŽ‰

ITS Service Desk helping a studentWe’re thrilled to announce that 100% of student mailboxes and Drive data have successfully migrated from Google Suite to Microsoft 365!

  • ๐Ÿ“ง New Email: All student mailboxes are now on Outlook.
  • ๐Ÿ“‚ 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.
  • ๐ŸŒ Resources: We have answered lots of your frequently asked questions andย put the most requested knowledgebase articles in one place.
  • ๐ŸŒŸ Learn More: Enhance your Microsoft skills on LinkedIn Learning

๐Ÿ’ป Support: Need help? Contact the Service Desk for technical assistance.

  • Please note that due to record-high call volume, the ITS Service Desk call queue has become saturated. Callers fill up the queue with callback requests each day, then create new callback requests before their place in line has come. The Service Desk starts the day with an unsustainable number of callback requests in the queue.
  • To prevent the queue from growing each day, ITS is going to implement the following temporary changes to the call queue starting May 21:
    • Stop accepting calls at 4 p.m. each day.
    • Purge a call waiting in the queue after four hours.
  • It is understood these changes may prevent somebody from getting through to the service desk by phone. The current recommendation is to browse the Service Desk client portal and review the knowledge base to find an answer to your question. If you cannot find the answer, then review our service catalog to start a ticket. Getting a ticket started will speed up the process of getting service fromย ITS.

We appreciate your patience and cooperation throughout this transition!

Have YOU Taken Advantage of the Next NC Scholarship? ๐ŸŽ“โœจ

The Next NC Scholarship offers a fantastic opportunity for North Carolina residents toNext NC logoย pursue higher education by fully covering tuition and fees at any community college. And this moneyย does not have to be paid back. Here’s what you need to know:

Who is eligible?

  • North Carolina residents eligible for in-state tuition
  • High school graduates or equivalency completers
  • Households with an annual Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $80,000 or less
  • Students enrolled in an eligible undergraduate program for the 2024-2025 academic year
  • Individuals taking at least 6 credit hours per semester
  • Students who have completed the 2024-2025 FAFSA with a resulting Student Aid Index (SAI) at or below 7,500

What does it cover?

  • Community Colleges: At least $3,000, which often covers full tuition and fees
    • Funds can also be used for things like books, food, housing, and other educational expenses.

How to apply?

  • Complete the FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is essential. If you’re eligible, you’ll receive the scholarship; there are no additionalย forms to fill out.
    • Ensure it’s submitted by August 15, 2024, for priority consideration. Funds are disbursed until they are exhausted.

Why apply? The Next NC Scholarship simplifies the financial aid process by combining state and federal resources, making college more accessible and affordable for many North Carolinians. This initiative is part of North Carolina’s commitment to investing in education and supporting its residents in achieving their academic goals.

For more details, visit the Next NC Scholarship website and start your application today!

Exhibition Announcement: โ€˜Forever Transientโ€™ ๐Ÿ–ผ๏ธ

Collage of artwork to be featured

๐Ÿ“… Exhibition Dates: May 20 โ€“ Aug 9
๐Ÿ“ Location: Central Campus, Parr Center, Dove Art Gallery

โ€˜Forever Transientโ€™ visually investigates the meaning behind transience,ย impermanence, continuous change, and the desire to preserve and prolong the temporary moment. Inspired by Dutch still life paintings and vanitas, each artist showcases a unique approach to artistically rendering the fragility of time. This exhibition reminds us that time is cyclical, not linear, continuously marching forward while reflecting on the past.

This exhibit features 8 nationally and internationally acclaimed artists, each incorporating vibrant references to nature and humanity through various creative processes:

  • Andrew Leventis: Hyper-realistic refrigerator still life paintings, updating classic Dutch techniques with a contemporary twist.
  • Brent Dedas: โ€œHoneybee drawingsโ€ that use live honeybees to create cyanotype prints.
  • Colby Caldwell: Uses a flatbed scanner on nature walks to scan natural flora, capturing the transient beauty of the forest floor.
  • James Henkel: Arranges fragments of glass from destroyed vessels to create organic shapes, showing transience through destruction and reformation.
  • Susan Jedrzejewski: Explores the unpredictable patterns of nature through photo transfers on canvas and panel.
  • Debra Koo: Paintings that preserve moments of social celebrations, family gatherings, and the abundance of food.
  • Desiree Thomas: Transforms ordinary food items like spam and packaged chips into extraordinary art, often set against blue sky backgrounds.
  • Kenny Nguyen: Honors his Vietnamese and American heritage using paint and Vietnamese silk in organic and abstract forms.
  • Jennifer Minnis: Captures humanity in spirit, mind, and body, causing viewers to question the thoughtful intentions of the portrayed subjects.

Quote from the Group:

“Whether skillfully rendering mundane routines, reimagining a personal archive, or concentrating on the minute details of a moment already gone, these artists bring to life something as connected to the temporary as it is to the everlasting. The small becomes the meaningful, the part becomes a whole. It is not the need for retrospection, but the will to render the complicated nuances of time, memory, and fragility that give this collection of works its power. It is within these elapsed moments that the painting lives and continues to evolve, forever.”

Join us for this thought-provoking exhibition and explore the intricate dance between the temporary and the everlasting. ๐ŸŒŸ

Summer Hours for IT Service Desk ๐Ÿ“ž๐Ÿ’ป

IT Services employee assisting a student at the help deskDuring the collegeโ€™s summer hours, the Information Technology Services Service Desk will be available to assist you with the following schedule:

๐Ÿ“… Monday – Thursday

  • Call Center: 8 a.m. โ€“ 7:30 p.m.
  • Walk-In Hours: 8 a.m. โ€“ 6 p.m.
    • Location: Central Campus, Parr Center, Hagemeyer Library, Second Floor

๐Ÿ“… Friday

  • Call Center: 8 a.m. โ€“ noon
  • Walk-In Hours: 8 a.m. โ€“ noon
    • Location: Central Campus, Parr Center, Hagemeyer Library, Second Floor

๐Ÿ“… Saturday

  • Call Center: 9 a.m. โ€“ 1 p.m.
  • No walk-in hours on Saturdays

๐Ÿ“ข ADVISORY: Temporary Service Desk Phone Availability Adjustment

  • Please note that due to record-high call volume, the ITS Service Desk call queue has become saturated. Callers fill up the queue with callback requests each day, then create new callback requests before their place in line has come. The Service Desk starts the day with an unsustainable number of callback requests in the queue.
  • To prevent the queue from growing each day, ITS is going to implement the following temporary changes to the call queue starting May 21:
    • Stop accepting calls at 4 p.m. each day.
    • Purge a call waiting in the queue after four hours.
  • It is understood these changes may prevent somebody from getting through to the service desk by phone. The current recommendation is to browse the Service Desk client portal and review the knowledge base to find an answer to your question. If you cannot find the answer, then review our service catalog to start a ticket. Getting a ticket started will speed up the process of getting service from ITS.

Exciting Study Abroad Opportunities for Spring and Summer 2025! ๐ŸŒโœˆ๏ธ

Photo of Yellowstone National Park at sunsetThe Center for Global Engagement at Central Piedmont is thrilled to announce a series of incredible study abroad programs for the 2024-25 academic year! Whether you’re interested in ecology, cultural immersion, or exploring historical legends, there’s something for everyone. Check out the details below and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

Spring Break 2025: Yellowstone Winter Ecology โ„๏ธ๐ŸฆŒ

๐Ÿ“… Dates: Spring Break 2025
๐Ÿ“ Location: Yellowstone National Park, Gardiner & Bozeman, Montana
๐Ÿ“š Associated Course: Biology 112 or CCE
๐Ÿ”Ž Description: Immerse yourself in wildlife biology alongside scientists and peers while exploring the unique landscape of Gardiner and Bozeman, Montana. Utilize radio telemetry to track ungulates, contribute to wildlife research, and collect valuable data on snow conditions and wildlife behavior to support conservation efforts. Explore the captivating geothermal features of Yellowstone on an immersive excursion.

Summer 2025: Explore Florence, Japan, and the UK & Romania! ๐ŸŒžโœˆ๏ธ

๐ŸŽถ Florence, Italy: Music, History, and Cultural Immersion
๐Ÿ“… Dates: Two weeks in May
๐Ÿ“š Associated Course: Music Appreciation or CCE
๐Ÿ”Ž Description:ย Spend two weeks immersing yourself in the history, music, and culture of Florence, Italy. This special program will include visits to renowned sites like The Uffizi, the Duomo, the Palazzo Pitti, and Boboli Gardens, as well as day trips to destinations like San Gimignano and engaging talks by local experts about Italian music, culture, and history.
๐ŸŽ‡ Highlights:

    • Walking tours of Renaissance Florence
    • Visits to Santa Croce, Casa di Dante, and the Galleria dellโ€™Accademia
    • Optional concert at the Lyceum Club

๐ŸŽŒJapan: Japanese Warlords in Modern Media
๐Ÿ“… Dates: Two weeks in May
๐Ÿ“š Associated Course: Humanities 120 or CCE
๐Ÿ”Ž Description:ย Embark on an unforgettable journey to Japan, where ancient traditions meet modern marvels. Immerse yourself in the culture of Kyoto and its historic temples. Engage in authentic experiences such as savoring Shojin Ryori, a traditional Buddhist meal, and navigating the lively streets of Osaka’s Dotonbori district.

๐ŸŽ‡ย Highlights:

    • Traditional Buddhist meal (Shojin Ryori)
    • Visits to Miraikan, the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation
    • Free exploration days in Tokyo, including TEPIA and Square Enix Cafe

๐Ÿง›โ€โ™‚๏ธย United Kingdom & Romania: Dracula โ€“ History & Literature
๐Ÿ“… Dates: 10 days in late May / early June
๐Ÿ“š Associated Course: Humanities – Myth & Human Culture and World Civilizations II or CCE
๐Ÿ”Ž Description:ย Explore the origins of Dracula and immerse yourself in the haunting world of Bram Stoker’s iconic novel with a unique study abroad experience led by Dacre Stoker, great-grandnephew of the legendary author himself. Dive into the folklore of vampires in Romanian culture, uncovering historic inspirations for Stoker’s novel.
๐ŸŽ‡ Highlights:

    • Scenic hikes and historic tours
    • Immersion in local cuisine and traditions
    • Walking in the footsteps of the novelโ€™s characters

These programs promise enriching experiences and unforgettable memories. Donโ€™tย miss out on the chance to explore the world with Central Piedmont! ๐ŸŒโœจ

For more details and to apply, visit the Study Abroad page of the Center for Global Engagement website.

Study Abroad Programs for Fall Break 2024: Apply Now! ๐ŸŒโœˆ๏ธ

The Center for Global Engagement is thrilled to announce Central Piedmont’s 2024-25 study abroad and globally-focused domestic travel programs!

Eligibility:

  • Open to students 18 and older, employees, and community members
  • Scholarships available for students
  • For questions, email the Center for Global Engagement or call 704-330-6167

Fall Break 2024 Programs – Applications Due by Fri., May 31

Photo of a body of water and the horizon in AzoresAzores, Portugal: Historical Perspectives & Mindfulness Practice๐Ÿง˜โ€โ™‚๏ธ

  • Associated Course: History 112 or CCE
  • Description: Explore modern world history in the Azores, an archipelago known for its volcanic landscapes and maritime culture. Learn about the impact of geography on cultural and economic development and the historical significance of whales to the islands. ๐Ÿณ
  • Featured Activities:
    • Hikes through diverse terrains with lakes and geothermal springs
    • Visits to botanical gardens, pineapple and tea plantations, and a dairy farm
    • Marine excursions like whale watching and snorkeling around Sรฃo Miguel Island

Bogotรก, Colombia: Baking & Pastry Cultural Experience ๐Ÿฐ

A street in downtown Bogota in the La Candelaria neighborhood.

  • Associated Courses: Culinary 287, and/or History 112 or CCE
  • Description: Immerse yourself in Colombian baking and pastry arts while exploring local culture and traditions. Engage in various activities during the eight-day trip, including visits to local markets, thermal hot springs, and companies like Castellana 104.
  • Featured Activities:
    • Visits to local markets and thermal hot springs
    • Culinary exploration of Bogotรกโ€™s neighborhoods
    • Workshops with Colombian students

Discover all the details, including dates, specific program information, and applications for fall and spring break programs, on the Study Abroad page of the Center for Global Engagement website. ๐ŸŒŽโœจ

๐ŸŽ‰ Central Piedmont Celebrates $1 Million Gift from Coca-Cola Consolidated ๐ŸŽ‰

What’s happening: Central Piedmont Student working as an EMT with a stethoscope around her neckhas been gifted $1 million by Coca-Cola Consolidated. This generous donation will fund scholarships specifically for U.S. military veterans and first responders, while also supporting various academic and training programs at the college.

Why it matters: This contribution will significantly enhance the college’s ability to support the educational and transitional needs of veterans and first responders. Central Piedmont is dedicated to providing these students with specialized resources to help them succeed in civilian and academic settings.

By the numbers:

  • Programs Supported: Basic Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice, Emergency Medicine, Fire Protection, and Public Safety Administration.
  • New Degrees: Launched a Public Safety Administration associate degree in August 2023.
  • Community Impact: The gift supports a student population that often faces unique challenges transitioning from service to civilian life.

Deepening Partnerships:

  • Coca-Cola Consolidated’s Role: As the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the U.S., headquartered in Charlotte, the company has a long-standing commitment to community support and workforce development.
  • Apprenticeship Program: The Coca-Cola Consolidated Apprenticeship Program at Central Piedmont provides paid apprenticeships in high-demand areas such as manufacturing and logistics, promoting practical, hands-on learning.

What they’re saying:

  • Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, President of Central Piedmont: “We are profoundly grateful for Coca-Cola Consolidated’s support. This gift will relieve financial burdens for deserving students who serve our community, fostering a significant, positive impact for future generations.” ๐ŸŒŸ
  • Morgan Everett, Vice Chair, Coca-Cola Consolidated: “Our purpose to serve others includes creating pathways to opportunity. We are proud to support the success of veterans and first responders entering the workforce.” ๐Ÿ› ๏ธ

The big picture: This donation not only underscores the community and educational commitment of Coca-Cola Consolidated but also highlights the critical role of corporate partnerships in advancing public education and workforce readiness.

๐ŸŽ Rev Up Your Career: Attend a Transport Systems Technologies Program Info Session ๐Ÿ”ง

Are you interested in a career in automotive technology, diesel heavy equipment technology, or collision repair and refinishing? Discover how Central Piedmont’sย  Transport Systems Technologies programs can set you on the path to success in these dynamic industries.Automotive student holding a wrench, leaning over a car with the hood up

๐Ÿ“ข About Our Information Sessions: Join us at one of our upcoming information sessions to learn all about the robust training opportunities available through our credit and non-credit continuing education courses. During these sessions, you will:

  • Gain insights into our program offerings and industry-relevant skills training.
  • Learn about the admissions process and work-based learning requirements.
  • Enjoy a guided tour of our state-of-the-art transport systems technology facilities.

Each session will provide a comprehensive overview, ensuring you have all the information you need to get started.

Session Dates and Locations:

  • Session 1
    ๐Ÿ“† Thurs., June 6
    ๐Ÿ• 6 – 7:30 p.m.
    ๐Ÿ“ Merancas Campus, Transportation Systems Building, Room 130
    โœ Registration is required
  • Session 2
    ๐Ÿ“† Thurs., July 11
    ๐Ÿ•“ 6 – 7:30 p.m.
    ๐Ÿ“ย Levine Campus, Joe Hendrick Center for Automotive
    โœย Registration is required

Ready to Jump Start Your Career?ย Discover the pathways to success in an industry that keeps the world moving. We look forward to seeing you there and helping you drive your future forward!

Dr. Deitemeyer Recognized as a Key Influencer

Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer posing with the Charlotte skyline in the backgroundBusiness North Carolina announced its Power List 2024, celebrating the state’s most influential leaders. Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, President of Central Piedmont, was one of four community college presidents who made the list, highlighting these leaders’ profound impact on the educational landscape and economic development across North Carolina.

Since taking the helm at Central Piedmont in 2017, Dr. Deitemeyer has been instrumental in spearheading initiatives that closely align with the needs of local industries, enhancing student success, and meeting employer demands.

Key Achievements Under Dr. Deitemeyer’s Leadership:

  • Partnerships with Industries: Dr. Deitemeyer has fostered significant partnerships with key local industries, initiating tailored workforce training programs that empower students to meet evolving industry requirements.
  • Innovative Programs: She has introduced groundbreaking training programs, including a partnership with Tesla to train automotive mechanics, setting a precedent in workforce education.
  • Leadership and Growth: Under her guidance, Central Piedmont has grown to become the second-largest community college in North Carolina, renowned for its commitment to student achievement and economic development.

Dr. Deitemeyer shared the spotlight with fellow influential leaders, including Dr. Scott Ralls of Wake Technical Community College, Dr. Laura Leatherwood of Blue Ridge Community College, and Dr. John Hauser of Gaston College, all recognized for their noteworthy impacts over the last year.

Central Piedmont continues to celebrate and support the incredible work of Dr. Deitemeyer and her fellow community college leaders, acknowledging their crucial role in fostering educational excellence and nurturing the state’s economic vitality.

View the full Power List 2024

๐ŸŽ“ Bri Duncan: A Story of Resilience and Triumph ๐ŸŽ“

Headshot of Bri Duncan in her graduation cap with stethoscope around her neck

Bri Duncanโ€™s journey at Central Piedmont is an extraordinary example of resilience, dedication, and the power of support. Hailing from Wirtz, Virginia, Bri faced the unique challenges of being a single mother and returning to school as an adult. Despite these hurdles, she achieved remarkable academic success, earning dual degrees in nursing and fine arts.

Key Achievements:

  • Academic Excellence: Bri’s stellar performance earned her a place in the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
  • Scholarships: Her hard work was further recognized through scholarships like the Cato Future Nurse Scholar award, helping her graduate debt-free.

Driven by personal challenges, including her sonโ€™s serious health issues, Bri was inspired to pursue a career in critical care nursing. She has accepted a position at Atrium Healthโ€™s Carolina Medical Center in the Medical ICU, ready to provide empathetic care in critical moments.

Overcoming Personal Challenges:

  • Supportive College Environment: During her time at Central Piedmont, Bri faced significant personal obstacles, including her son’s recovery from a stroke and their home being flooded. The college stepped in with crucial support, offering a semester of compassionate withdrawal and allowing her to manage her familyโ€™s crises without compromising her educational aspirations.

As a commencement speaker, Bri shared her inspiring narrative with her peers, highlighting the importance of persistence, community support, and utilizing every resource available. Her message is clear and profound: Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, and never waver in the pursuit of your dreams.

๐ŸŽ“ Central Piedmont Celebrates Spring 2024 Graduates ๐ŸŽ“

Group of graduates waiting to march, taking a selfie

On May 9, more than 1,025ย students crossedย the stage at Bojangles Coliseum to receive their college credentials during Central Piedmont’s spring commencement ceremonies. The event was a vibrant celebration of academic achievements, with ceremonies held in both the morning and the afternoon.

Student Keynote Speakers:

  • Morning Ceremony: Ndianor Gbandala, a 2024 graduate with an associate degree in medical laboratory technology, inspired her classmates by sharing her journey and the obstacles she overcame.
  • Afternoon Ceremony: Brianna Duncan, who earned her associate degree in nursing in 2024, addressed the audience, recounting her path to success and the challenges faced along the way.

Both speakers were met with enthusiastic applause for their moving speeches, which struck a chord with fellow graduates and attendees alike.

Two graduates smiling and holding a #cpccgrad cutout

Worth Noting:

  • Degrees Awarded: Students graduated with degrees, diplomas, or certificatesย from both for-credit and non-credit programs.
  • Flexible Ceremony Times: To accommodate different family schedules, Central Piedmont allowed graduates to choose between morning or afternoon ceremonies for their “walk.”

This year’s commencement not only highlighted the personal stories of perseverance and triumph but also continued Central Piedmont’s tradition of having graduates serve as keynote speakers, adding a personal touch to the celebration of academic success. Congratulations to all the graduates on their well-deserved achievements! ๐ŸŽ‰

๐Ÿ”„ Update on Our Transition to Microsoft 365 ๐Ÿ”„

Student sitting at a table, working on a Mac Book

As we transition from Google Suite to Microsoft 365, we’re excited to share that about 75% of student mailboxes have successfully transitioned from Google Mail to Outlook. Throughout the week, students can expect to see their email and Drive data continue to populate in their new Microsoft 365 accounts.

Encountering Issues?

If you experience any difficulties during this transition, don’t hesitate to reach out for support:

Resources to Help You:

  • Migration Website: For FAQs, a detailed migration timeline, and a comparison guide between Google Suite and Microsoft 365, visit the Migration to Microsoft 365 website.
  • LinkedIn Learning: Enhance your skills and get up to speed with Microsoft products using LinkedIn Learning.

We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we upgrade to a more integrated and efficient system. Stay tuned for more updates! ๐ŸŒ

๐Ÿ•’ Food Services Summer Hours

Catalyst Coffee Bar, Harris CampusAs we transition into the summer season, please take note of the following changes to our campus services from May 10 until July 29:

Catalyst Operations:

  • Hours: Mon. – Thurs. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., and Fri. 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
  • Locations: Central, Harris, Harper, and Merancas campuses
  • Note: All other food services will be closed during the summer.

Need catering this summer? Canteen will continue to take orders throughout the summer months. Perfect for meetings and events!

The campus stores at Central, Cato, and Levine campuses will continue to provide coffee, food, and snack options.

๐ŸŒž Whether you’re studying, working on campus, or just stopping by, these services are here to keep you fueled and ready to go this summer!