FAFSA Nights: Unlock Your Financial Aid Potential

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FAFSA Federal Student Aid logođź“š Finances shouldn’t be a barrier to your education. Central Piedmont is here to guide you through the FAFSA application maze with our FAFSA Nights.

  • What’s Happening: Hands-on workshops for the 2024-2025 FAFSA Application.
  • Get Help With: State residency, college application, and your Federal Student Aid ID.
  • Where & When:
  • Inclusivity: Spanish-speaking staff on-site.
  • RSVP Required: Registration is mandatory.

Take the First Step: Secure your financial future by registering for a session that fits your schedule.

Your opportunity to demystify the financial aid process and advance your academic ambitions awaits.

Student Equity Council – Celebrate Black History Month with Paint & Sip

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sip and paint flyerThis February, immerse yourself in the vibrant celebration of Black History Month with the Central Piedmont Community College Student Equity Council’s Paint & Sip event. Mark your calendars for an afternoon filled with creativity, conversation, and community.

Event Details:

  • Date: Thurs., Feb. 22
  • Time: 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
  • Location: Central Campus, Parr Center, Room 1010
  • Register now

An Invitation to Create and Connect:
Join fellow students, staff, and faculty for a memorable gathering designed to honor and celebrate the rich heritage and contributions of Black Americans. Whether you’re an experienced artist or picking up a paintbrush for the first time, this event promises an inclusive space for everyone to express themselves.

What to Expect:

  • Artistic Expression: Dive into painting with all supplies and templates provided, ensuring you have everything you need to bring your vision to life.
  • Engaging Conversations: Enjoy open floor discussions on a variety of topics, offering a platform to share insights, experiences, and perspectives.
  • Musical Vibes: Get inspired by a selection of music that complements the creative atmosphere and celebrates Black culture and history.
  • Refreshments on Us: Delight in complimentary snacks and refreshments, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your afternoon.

Dress for the Occasion:
Remember to wear clothes that you won’t mind getting a little paint on, as creativity can sometimes be a messy process!

A Community Gathering:
The Student Equity Council is excited to welcome you to this special event. It’s more than just an art session; it’s an opportunity to connect with our community, reflect on the significance of Black History Month, and contribute to a tapestry of shared experiences and expressions.

Don’t miss out on this unique way to celebrate Black History Month at Central Piedmont Community College. We look forward to seeing you there, brush in hand, ready to paint, sip, and share in this collective experience.

Hoyaris Ovalle: Turning Challenges into Triumph

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Hoyaris Ovalle

Meet Hoyaris Ovalle, a beacon of determination at Central Piedmont. Despite financial challenges, her journey from West Mecklenburg and East Mecklenburg high schools to our campus is a tale of resilience and ambition. Set to graduate with a degree in General Occupational Technology/Pre-Dental Hygiene, Hoyaris’s story is one of overcoming adversity and embracing opportunity.

Embracing Opportunity Against Odds: Hoyaris’s college dream faced financial hurdles, but Central Piedmont opened doors she thought were closed. The college became her beacon of hope when filling out the FAFSA became a stumbling block.

Scholarship and Support: Thanks to mentors like Mr. Tim and Mr. Ezell, she navigated the application maze and became an Opportunity Scholar, with the scholarship covering her tuition and fees. This support system didn’t just ease the financial burden—it fostered her growth and integration into campus life.

A Tribute to Her Mother: More than a personal quest, Hoyaris is driven by the vision of granting her mother the honor of seeing her graduate. Her academic pursuit is a gift of pride and a step towards a brighter financial future for her family.

Leadership and Engagement: Hoyaris is not just a student; she’s a vibrant part of the Student Government Association (SGA), where her engagement with senators from each campus and contributions to events like Welcome Fest reflects her commitment to community and leadership.

Personal Growth at Central Piedmont: Central Piedmont has reshaped Hoyaris’s outlook on success, teaching her that there’s more to college than grades and perfection. It’s about involvement, trying new things, and fostering a welcoming environment for others.

A Message to Future Students: “Don’t hesitate to apply to Central Piedmont,” advises Hoyaris. “It’s more than an institution—it’s a family that nurtures your growth every day.”

Join us in celebrating Hoyaris’s achievements and be inspired to craft your own success story at Central Piedmont.

Duke Energy Employees Donate to the Professional Clothing Closet

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Duke Energy Donationđź‘” Thanks to the incredible generosity of Duke Energy employees, our Professional Clothing Closet just got a massive boost! Thousands of professional attire items – suits, dress shirts, shoes, dresses, and more – are now available to help Central Piedmont students dress for success.

📅 Open Every Tuesday | 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Worrell Building, Room 1152

This initiative ensures our students can confidently step into their interviews and future careers, all at no cost. It’s part of our ongoing commitment to educate and empower our students for career readiness.

📣 Calling all students! Want to make a great first impression? Sign up to shop for up to four professional outfits.

🙌 And we’re always looking for more donations! Drop off your gently used professional wear on Tuesdays and make a difference in a student’s journey.

For more details or to make a donation, please contact Mia Mallory at mia.mallory@cpcc.edu, or Dena Shonts at dena.shonts@cpcc.edu.

A heartfelt thank you to Duke Energy employees and everyone supporting this vital resource. Together, we’re making a real impact on our students’ futures.

Career Connect: Do What You LOVE! Career Exploration Workshop

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career workshopThis Valentine’s Day, “swipe right” on your career match! Join Career Services for a unique and interactive MBTI Workshop that aims to help you find a career that you love!! Discover the fascinating connections between your personality, relationships, and professional journey in a fun and engaging setting.

Workshop Highlights:

  • Personality Meets Profession: Explore the link between your MBTI profile and potential careers.
  • Interactive Learning: Participate in an interactive session that’s both informative and fun.
  • Networking Opportunity: Connect with peers and career advisors passionate about finding the right career fit for you.

Register Now

Unlocking Opportunities: Exploring Criminal Record Expunction

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Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy logo

Looking to turn over a new leaf? Join us for “Unlocking Opportunities: Exploring Criminal Record Expunction in North Carolina,” presented by the Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

  • Understanding Expunction Law: Gain insights into NC’s expunction laws.
  • Eligibility Criteria: Find out if your criminal charge qualifies for expunction.
  • DIY Petitioning: Learn where to get materials for self-represented petitions.
  • Expert Assistance: Discover services offered by CCLA and other legal aids.

Event Details:

đź“… Date: Tues., Feb. 20
⏰ Time: 12 p.m.
đź“Ť Location: Central Campus, Parr Center, Room 0070

Empower yourself with knowledge and the possibility of clearing your record.

Free Support for BUS 110 and MED 121 Students

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bus 110The Perkins Special Population Support program has partnered with the Healthcare and Business departments to offer a free support class. The class is designed to give skills and content support to English Language Learners (ELL) and other particular population curriculum students beginning their academic journeys through their enrollment in MED 121 or BUS 110.

We provide students with the guidance, practice, and support needed to help create a strong foundation in study strategies, note-taking suggestions, academic support, extra review of content, and more. We have both in-person and virtual classes to support student needs. If you have any questions or concerns or would like to refer a student to our services, please email Judith Roman (judith.roman@cpcc.edu) for more information.

Perkins levels the playing field for nine special populations within our state and nation. Those special populations include individuals with disabilities, individuals from economically disadvantaged families, individuals preparing for nontraditional fields, single parents, out-of-workforce individuals, English language learners, individuals experiencing homelessness, youth within the foster care system, and childwith a parent who is a member of the armed forces or is on active duty within the military.

Spring Transfer Fair: A Gateway to New Academic Horizons

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TRANSFER FAIRTuesday, Feb. 13, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Are you contemplating a transfer to another institution to continue your academic journey? The Spring Transfer Fair, hosted by Academic Advising and Transfer Services, is an event you cannot afford to miss! Scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., this fair is an ideal opportunity for students to explore a myriad of educational pathways.

Location:

  • Levine Campus, Levine II, 2nd Floor Atrium

This is more than just a fair; it’s a pivotal event where you can engage directly with representatives from a diverse array of prestigious colleges and universities across the Carolinas. Imagine the convenience of having all these institutions under one roof, ready to provide you with detailed information about their programs, campus life, and the specific steps to transfer.

Participating Institutions:

  • Appalachian State University
  • Belmont Abbey College
  • Campbell University
  • Charleston Southern University
  • East Carolina University
  • Lenoir-Rhyne University
  • NC State
  • Queens University of Charlotte
  • Salem College
  • UNC Chapel Hill
  • UNC Charlotte
  • UNC Charlotte Army ROTC Department
  • UNC Greensboro
  • Wingate University
  • Winthrop University

Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP)

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LIEAPDo you need help paying your heating bill this winter?

Mecklenburg County is offering help to residents this winter by providing Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) funds to eligible households. LIEAP is a federal program that assists low-income households with their immediate heating needs so they won’t have to choose between heating their homes and buying other necessities. You do not have to be at risk of disconnection or delinquency to take advantage of this one-time, direct vendor payment in the amount of $300, $400, or $500.

This program is available from December 1 – March 31. For more information, please visit the Mecklenburg County website: MeckNC.gov/ENERGY.

Questions? Contact Single Stop at 704-330-6435.

Impress Employers this February

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Equitable boothLooking for your next big job? Check out these employers.

Work-it Wednesday!
Work-it Wednesdays are on-campus recruiting events that provide you the opportunity to network with potential employers and learn more about the companies they represent.

Wed., Feb. 7, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

  • Equitable | Central Campus – Parr Center, First Floor

Wed., Feb. 14, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Wed., Feb 21., 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

  • Spectrum | Central Campus – Parr Center, First Floor

Have questions? Contact Career Services (career.services@cpcc.edu) or make an appointment with a Career Counselor.

Apply Now for 2024-25 Scholarships

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foundation logoThe Central Piedmont Foundation Student Scholarship Portal will open on Thurs., Feb. 1, 2024.

To apply for financial support that can significantly aid your educational journey, log in to the portal and complete the general application. Our scholarships, both need-based and merit-based, cater to various criteria – including your major, community involvement, special interests, and creative talents. We encourage all students to seize this opportunity to alleviate the monetary demands of college education.

Please note that most Foundation scholarships necessitate a minimum GPA of either 2.0 or 2.5. Eligibility is contingent upon enrolling in a certificate, diploma, or degree program at Central Piedmont. The awarding of scholarships depends on the criteria established by our donors and fund availability, hence the importance of applying early. Remember that submitting a scholarship application is competitive and does not guarantee funding. Additionally, scholarships may not cover the entire cost of tuition and fees nor guarantee additional funding in subsequent sessions or terms.

A valuable tip: When submitting your general application, explore the “Other Recommended Opportunities” section, which lists scholarships with additional questions and requirements. If you meet the criteria for these opportunities, we highly encourage you to apply. While not mandatory, completing these additional applications increases your chances of receiving a scholarship.

It is important to remember that scholarship applications at Central Piedmont must be re-submitted each academic year.

The final deadline to apply for scholarships for the 2024-25 academic year is Sat., Aug. 31, 2024.

Stay Connected with the Affordable Connectivity Program

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ACP graphic

As a student, internet access is crucial for your academic success. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) by the FCC is here to ensure you have the broadband you need for your studies, work, healthcare, and more. This federal benefit offers substantial discounts on internet services and can even help you obtain a computer at a reduced cost.

Key Benefits of the ACP:

  • Internet Service Discount: Eligible students can receive up to $30 off their monthly internet service.
  • Device Discount: A one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop, or tablet from participating providers (with a personal contribution of $10 to $50).
  • Eligibility Criteria: You may be eligible if your household income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty guideline if you have received a federal PELL grant in the current award year, or if you participate in certain programs like SNAP.

Enrollment Deadline:
Mark your calendar – the last day to enroll in the ACP is February 7, 2024.

Check Eligibility and Apply:
To see if you qualify and to apply for the program, visit the FCC’s ACP page.

Take advantage of this opportunity to reduce your internetand computer costs. Stay connected and ensure you have the tools you need to succeed in your academic journey.

Celebrating Black History: Upcoming Events at Central Piedmont Library

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Black history month graphic

Black history month graphic designed by alum Bruce Maxwell, illustrator for The Spark student publication in 1994.

Central Piedmont Community College is set to host a series of compelling library exhibitions and events throughout February, celebrating cultural diversity, literature, and the arts. These events, spread across multiple campuses, offer a unique blend of educational and inspirational experiences for students, faculty, and the wider community.

 Library Exhibitions

  • John H. White Photograph Exhibition (All Campuses): This exhibition showcases the evocative work of celebrated photographer John H. White, known for his poignant captures of urban life and African American communities. It’s a rare opportunity to delve into the visual narratives that have shaped societal perspectives.
  • African Americans in Graphic Novels (All Campuses): This exhibition explores the representation of African Americans in the world of graphic novels. It’s a thought-provoking display that highlights the influence of African American culture in this dynamic literary form.

 Library Events

“Inspired to Write! An Author Talk” with Dr. Beth Kara Dawkins

    • When: Tues., Feb. 6, noon–1 p.m.
    • Where: Harris Campus, Library
    • Details: Join novelist Dr. Beth Kara Dawkins for an insightful discussion about the creative writing process and the journey of bringing stories to life.

“African American Culture, Identity, and Representation in Graphic Novels” with Stephanie Williams

    • When & Where:
      • Wed., Feb. 7, 9:30–10:30 a.m., Cato Campus, Cato II, Auditorium, Room 020
      • Wed., Feb. 14, 9:30–10:30 a.m., Merancas Campus, Merancas IV, Room 122 (inside the library)
      • Wed., Feb. 21, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m., Levine Campus, Levine III, Auditorium
      • Wed., Feb. 28, noon–1 p.m., Harper Campus, Harper IV, Room 310 (inside the library)
    • Details: Stephanie Williams delves into the world of graphic novels, discussing the cultural and social significance of African American representation in this genre.

“Crafting a Narrative for Your Family History” with Rose Parkman

  •     When & Where:
    • Thurs., Feb. 8, 11 a.m.–noon, Central Campus, Parr Center, Library, Room 3220
    • Thurs., Feb. 15, 1–2 p.m., Harris Campus, Harris I, Auditorium
    • Details: Discover the art of tracing and narrating your family history in this engaging workshop led by Rose Parkman.

“What is it Going to take: African American Arts in Charlotte”

  • When: Thurs., Feb. 15, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
    • Where: Central Campus, Overcash, Tate Hall
  • Details: A panel discussion featuring Arsena and Jermaine Nakia Lee, moderated by Dr. Corlis Hayes, focusing on the evolution and impact of African American arts in Charlotte.

“REVIVAL!” Exploring the Transcendent Nature of Alice Walker’s “The Color Purple” with Dr. Alicia D. Dervin

  • When: Wed., Feb. 21, 12:30–1:30 p.m.
  • Where: Cato Campus, Cato II, Auditorium (020)
  • Details: Dr. Alicia D. Dervin offers a deep dive into Alice Walker’s acclaimed novel,”The Color Purple,” exploring its themes of resilience and transcendence.

“A Citizen of No Nation” with photographer/artist Toni Lovejoy

  • When: Thurs., Feb. 22, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
  • Where: Central Campus, Overcash, Tate Hall
  • Details: A captivating session with photographer/artist Toni Lovejoy, examining themes of identity and belonging through visual art.

These events, sponsored by Central Piedmont Library, Arts and Communication, English, Strategy and Organizational Excellence, and Levine Museum of the New South, promise to offer enriching experiences for all attendees. Join us in celebrating culture, art, and education this February at Central Piedmont Community College.

STEM Tank Season 5 Applications

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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!

Next NC Scholarship

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Next NCThe 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 university 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 and makes education more affordable so a greater number of North Carolinians can pursue a degree.

It’s enough money to earn a tuition-free degree.
Qualifying students attending community college will receive at least $3,000. That means having their tuition and fees 100% covered at any of the 58 North Carolina community colleges. Those attending a public university in the state will get a minimum of $5,000, which pays for more than half, if not all, of tuition and fees at any of the 16 public universities in the state. The scholarship award can also go toward books, food, and housing.

Applying is simple.
Just submit the FAFSA form. If you’re eligible, you’ll receive the Next NC Scholarship. There are no additional forms to fill out. The Next NC Scholarship priority filing date* is June 1, 2024, for UNC System schools and August 15, 2024, for NC community colleges.

To receive the Next NC Scholarship, you must be:

  1. A North Carolina resident who is eligible for in-state tuition
  2. A high school graduate (high school equivalency completers are eligible)
  3. From a household with an annual Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $80,000 or less
  4. Enrolled in an eligible undergraduate curriculum program for the 2024-2025 academic year
  5. Taking at least 6 credit hours per semester (part-time students will receive a partial award)
  6. Meeting the Satisfactory Academic Progress standards of the school you plan to attend
  7. A student who has completed the 2024- 2025 FAFSA, with a resulting Student Aid Index (SAI) at or below 7,500 (once complete, the financial aid office at the college/university you plan to attend will determine and confirm eligibility)

Central Piedmont Community College Welcomes Atrium Health’s Women’s Care Drive to Thrive Mobile Unit

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mobile care unitCentral Piedmont Community College is delighted to partner with the Atrium Health Women’s Care Drive to Thrive, a groundbreaking mobile care unit dedicated to providing a comprehensive range of women’s health services. This initiative represents a significant step towards enhancing healthcare access and equity in our community.

About the Women’s Care Drive to Thrive:
Atrium Health’s Women’s Care Drive to Thrive is a mobile unit offering a variety of essential services in a friendly and supportive environment. The unit is open to all community members and offers both scheduled and walk-in appointments, with bilingual staff available for Spanish-speaking patients.

Services Provided:
The mobile clinic includes a range of vital services, such as:

  • Screening for cervical cancer, urinary tract infections, and sexually transmitted infections
  • Access to birth control
  • First-time prenatal visits and postpartum care
  • Ultrasound services
  • Mammogram referrals
  • On-site social worker to help connect patients with resources

Cost and Insurance Information:
Service costs vary based on individual insurance plans. For those without insurance, a sliding scale is applied, often resulting in no charge.

Central Piedmont Operating Hours and Location:
The clinic operates on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., on the Central Campus. The mobile unit sets up in Parking lot 11, at 1425 Elizabeth Ave., adjacent to the Leon Levine Health Sciences Center, which fronts Elizabeth Avenue and Charlottetowne Avenue.

Appointments can be scheduled by calling 704-468-0137, though walk-ins also are welcome.

College Application Essay Workshop

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Free workshop on Thursday, February 22 from 12-1 P.M. in Parr 2130

College applications are already stressful enough without application essays to write, but never fear; the Academic Success Center (ASC)is here to help!

Come to our free workshop on Thurs., Feb. 22, from 12-1 p.m. in Parr 2130 to learn more about the application essay writing process and how the ASC can help you become a more effective writer!

FAFSA Day: A Step Towards Your Future

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Levine campus students

Central Piedmont Community College is excited to announce an invaluable opportunity for its students and their parents. We are hosting a special FAFSA Day, in collaboration with the College Foundation of North Carolina, designed to provide crucial assistance in securing your financial aid. Here’s what you need to know:

Event Overview

  • Date: Saturday, January 27, 2024
  • Time: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
  • Location: Levine Campus, Levine Building 1, Room 2100

About the Event

  • This event is an excellent chance for one-on-one or small group support in completing your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
  • We welcome all Central Piedmont students and their parents to register for this free event.
  • Our expert team from the Financial Aid Department, in collaboration with the College Foundation of North Carolina, will be there to guide you through the process.

Preparation for the Event

  • If you still need to, please create your StudentAid.gov Account (formerly FSA ID) before the event. This will ensure a smooth and quick login process, allowing you to submit your FAFSA efficiently at the event.
  • We recommend using this handy cheat sheet to keep your account information organized. 

What to Bring for FAFSA Completion

  • Bringing the necessary items will expedite the completion of your FAFSA. Make sure to have all your required documents ready for the event.

Central Piedmont is committed to helping you navigate your educational journey. This FAFSA Day is a step towards ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder your academic aspirations. We look forward to seeing you there and assisting you in unlocking the doors to your future!

Be the Face of Central Piedmont: Join the Social Media Student Ambassador Team

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social media ambassadorHey, Central Piedmont students! Ready to turn your passion for social media into something epic? We’re looking for Social Media Student Ambassadors to join our squad.

Dive into campus life, create viral content, and let your imagination run wild. Whether you’re a camera pro or a storytelling genius, this gig showcases what makes Central Piedmont Community College buzz with energy. Get in on the action!!

View the job description!

Email us at socialmedia@cpcc.edu to submit your name and set up a meeting with our social media manager.

Spring 2024 Graduation Information

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Commencement December 2023Important Deadlines

  • March 12, 2024 – Last day for students to apply to be included in the May Graduation Ceremony printed program.
    *Important note: Students must apply and be found eligible for graduation before or by this date in order for their names to be included in the printed program.*
  • April 13, 2024 – Last day to register for the May Graduation Ceremony. You will receive an email through the Marching Order website. Registration emails will come from noreply@marching.com.
    *Important note: You must be found eligible for graduation in order to receive a registration email.* If you do not receive a registration email and believe you are eligible for graduation, please contact your advisor or graduation@cpcc.edu.
  • April 23-25, 2024 – The Graduation Fair will be held on these dates at the Central Campus Store. This will be your first opportunity to pick up your caps and gowns for the Graduation Ceremony.
    • Time:
      10 a.m. – 6 p.m. each day
    • Address:
      1112 Charlottetowne Ave
      Charlotte, NC 28204
    • If you are not able to pick up your cap and gown at the Graduation Fair, they will be available at the bookstore through Wednesday, May 8, 2024, during normal business hours.
  • May 9, 2024 – Graduation Ceremony at Bojangles Coliseum. The start time is 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., and check-in will begin an hour and fifteen minutes before the ceremony’s start time.