Central Piedmont Community College, in a significant move to enhance higher education pathways, has partnered with Lees-McRae College to establish the ‘Guaranteed Admission Program’ (GAP). This landmark agreement, signed on Apr. 9, 2024, promises Central Piedmont students a seamless transfer to Lees-McRae College, paving the way for attaining bachelor’s degrees and beyond.

Key Highlights of the Agreement:

• Automatic Admission: Central Piedmont students who earn an Associate of Arts, Associate in Science, Associate in Applied Science, or Associate in Fine Arts degree and meet specific GPA requirements will be automatically admitted to Lees-McRae College.
• Merit Scholarships: Eligible students can receive merit scholarships covering up to 50% of Lees-McRae’s annual tuition, making higher education more accessible.
• Signing Ceremony: The agreement was ratified during a ceremony at Central Piedmont’s Central Campus in Charlotte, attended by Dr. Lee King, President of Lees-McRae College, Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, President of Central Piedmont, and other distinguished leaders from both institutions.
• Program Start: The Guaranteed Admission Program will welcome its first students in August, coinciding with the commencement of the fall 2024 semester.

Why This Partnership Matters:

• Enhancing Higher Education Access: This program exemplifies Central Piedmont and Lees-McRae College’s commitment to increasing access to higher education. It aligns with North Carolina’s myFutureNC initiative, which aims to boost the number of residents with post-secondary degrees or credentials by 2030.
• Unique Educational Opportunities: Lees-McRae, located in the scenic town of Banner Elk, offers Central Piedmont graduates a distinctive academic and social environment conducive to personal and professional growth.
• Supporting North Carolina’s Economy: The GAP facilitates a smoother transition for students seeking higher education, supporting the state’s economic development goals through an educated and skilled workforce.

A Bright Future Ahead: This partnership marks a new chapter for Central Piedmont and Lees-McRae College and for the countless students who will benefit from expanded educational opportunities. Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer stated that this collaboration is poised to open doors to “great experiences and success” for Central Piedmont students at Lees-McRae.

Central Piedmont is excited to witness the future achievements of its students who embark on their next academic journey at Lees-McRae College, bolstered by the support and opportunities provided by the Guaranteed Admission Program.