Central Piedmont Community College is proud to announce that Josiah McLean has been selected to participate in the Meridian-Cox Foreign Service Fellowship for Emerging Leaders in Washington, DC, this summer. This achievement is a testament to the strength and potential of our community.
The Meridian-Cox Foreign Service Fellowship for Emerging Leaders is a fully funded enrichment and training program to expand awareness and access to Foreign Service careers for students from underrepresented communities across the United States. This initiative, a collaboration among the Meridian International Center, the Una Chapman Cox Foundation, and Community Colleges for International Development, offers undergraduate students a unique insight into American diplomacy while exploring educational, internship, and career opportunities within the U.S. Foreign Service. The program emphasizes the critical role of Foreign Service Officers. It equips participants with essential soft skills needed for success in a diplomatic career. Fellows will gain a deeper understanding of diplomacy and international affairs through site visits, workshops, and networking opportunities.
The Fellowship was held in Washington, DC, from Sunday, June 23, to Saturday, June 29, 2024. The program’s activities included:
- a comprehensive U.S. Department of State visit,
- an immersive two-day diplomatic skills training course,
- a diplomacy simulation, and
- panel discussions with U.S. Foreign Service representatives.
Josiah McLean is one of 20 fellows selected from over 450 exceptional applicants. We are thrilled he represented Central Piedmont Community College in Washington, DC. This opportunity for Josiah fills us with hope for the future of our community and the impact he will make on the world stage. “We are incredibly proud of Josiah’s achievement and excited for him to have this opportunity to engage with international affairs and diplomacy at such a prestigious level,” said Teresa Hall, Director of the Center for Global Engagement.

Central Piedmont Community College provides a tuition payment plan designed to ease students’ financial burden by allowing them to pay tuition and fees over time. This plan is an excellent option for students looking to manage their education expenses more effectively.
From fleeing his home in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 2014 to becoming a standout student in Charlotte, Irenge Dekandol’s story is nothing short of inspiring. Here’s a glimpse into his journey at Central Piedmont Community College:
Monisha Pirela, a 34-year-old Central Piedmont Community College student from New Bern, NC, is pursuing an Associate in Arts degree. She chose Central Piedmont for its proximity, easing her commute and allowing her to balance school with other commitments. 🛣️ Monisha actively participates in campus life, serving on the Student Equity Council, NC Global Scholars of Distinction, and Phi Theta Kappa. She is also the recipient of several scholarships, including the 2023 Charlotte Pride Champion of Pride, Benjamin A. Gilman, Truist Honors, and Levine Scholarship.
Central Piedmont offers tailored library support services to enhance your academic journey, and they are available at all campus locations.
Central Piedmont Community College is gearing up to introduce an innovative associate-degree program in artificial intelligence this August, coinciding with the start of the 2024 fall semester. Positioned as only the second North Carolina community college to offer such a program, Central Piedmont is paving the way for students to delve into the dynamic realm of artificial intelligence (AI).
Join us for our annual Arbor Day celebration across multiple campuses this Thurs., Apr. 25, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Here’s everything you need to know:

Currently, we’re offering our Asian menu, which you can
Ken Collins has been synonymous with the Automotive Systems Technology program throughout his 25-year tenure at Central Piedmont.


Are you eager to expand your social circle and discover new connections? Are you curious if others share your interests? Then mark your calendars for our upcoming Speed Friendshipping event, hosted by the Cato Campus Library in collaboration with the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s Community Read initiative. Get ready to mingle, enjoy diverse cultures, and savor delicious food!

Dear Students,
Will Thames, a 22-year-old from Charlotte, NC, shares his inspiring journey at Central Piedmont!⭐ Will highlights his aspirations and the role Central Piedmont has played in his educational and personal growth. As a Myers Park High School graduate, Will chose Central Piedmont to pave his path toward a future in radio broadcasting and music, drawn by the college’s diverse course offerings and the prospect of transferring to Appalachian State University.
