🚀 Join Us for the STEM Tank Competition: Students Tackle Real-World Issues!

Photo of a group of students on the stairs in front of a Central Campus academic building in professional attireCentral Piedmont invites faculty, staff, and students to witness the innovative spirit of our students as they present their solutions to real challenges in our community and on campus. Don’t miss the STEM Tank Competition!

📅 Event Details:

  • Date: Fri., Nov. 15
  • Time: 11 a.m.
  • Location: Central Campus, Overcash Building, Tate Hall

In just five weeks, student teams have developed thoughtful proposals aimed at making a positive impact using science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). This event is a fantastic opportunity to see firsthand how students build teamwork, hone their research abilities, and polish their presentation skills as they work toward meaningful change.

Come support our students and get inspired by their ideas and passion! 💡🌟

🎭 Kick Off the Parr Arts & Humanities Series with the West Virginia Dance Company!

Central Piedmont is thrilled to announce the first event of the 2024-25 Parr Arts and Humanities Series — a captivating performance by the West Virginia Dance Company at the Parr Center Theater! Experience the power of dance that combines stunning light design, visual art, and costumes to create a moving kaleidoscope of color and storytelling.

🌟 Performance Schedule:

  • First Show: Thurs., Nov. 14 at 2 p.m.
  • Second Show: Fri., Nov. 15 at 7 p.m.
  • Location: Parr Center Theater, Central Campus
  • Admission: Free, but registration is required to reserve your spot!

The West Virginia Dance Company performs for tens of thousands annually, delivering thought-provoking art that entertains and inspires. The Parr Arts & Humanities Series brings esteemed artists and authors to Central Piedmont, enriching the campus and the Charlotte community with world-class cultural events.

Don’t miss this exciting start to the season — register today and be part of a memorable celebration of the arts!

De-Stress Event: Relax Before Finals at Central Piedmont! 🧘‍♀️

Students sitting in the floor, coloringFeeling the pressure of upcoming finals? 😓 Take a breather and join us for a De-Stress Event! It’s the perfect way to unwind and recharge before hitting the books again.

Activities Include:

  • 🛍️ Coping Kits: Create your own personalized kit filled with stress-relief goodies.
  • 🌿 Aromatherapy: Mix and make your own soothing scents.
  • 🎨 Coloring: Tap into your creative side with some relaxing coloring.

Event Details:

  • 📅 Date: Wed., Nov. 13
  • 🕛 Time: Noon – 2:30 p.m.
  • 📍 Location: Harris Campus, Harris Building 1 Lobby

Questions? Contact Brittany Lutton at brittany.lutton@cpcc.edu.

Come de-stress with us and head into finals feeling refreshed and ready! 💪

🎉 Celebrate I Am First Gen Week at Central Piedmont Nov. 4-8

Three students posing with first-gen student signsThe Office of Mentoring and Coaching is hosting an exciting week-long event to honor our first-generation students, faculty, and staff. Whether you’re a first-generation student or just want to show your support, come out to celebrate, connect, and learn! Here’s the lineup:

  • Mon., Nov. 4: First Generation Awareness
    🕚 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
    📍 Parr Center, Room 1000-1050
  • Tues., Nov. 5: Get Out and Vote
    • 🗳️ It’s Election Day! Make sure your voice is heard by casting your vote. Find your polling location and check voting hours.
    • First-Gen alumni: wear your alma mater shirts and sweatshirts; current first-gen students: wear a shirt for your FUTURE alma mater or your Central Piedmont shirt/sweatshirt
  • Wed., Nov. 6: First Gen Meet and Greet
    🕙 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
    📍 Library, Room 2160
  • Thurs., Nov. 7: I Am First Panel
    🕑 2 – 3 p.m.
    📍 Library, Room 2160
  • Fri., Nov. 8: First Gen Activate Community Service
    🕑 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
    📍 Parr Center, Room 0060-0070

Don’t miss out on this chance to celebrate, connect, and be inspired! 🥳✨

🦃 November Special at Hen & Steer Grill: Grilled Turkey Club!

Turkey sandwich with the words "Tukey Day is almost here... introducing the grilled turkey club with cranberry mayo" at the top and "Make it a combo $9.99, sandwich with fries and a fountain drink" in a circle in the bottom left cornerFor November only, Hen & Steer Grill at the Parr Student Center on Central Campus is serving up a seasonal favorite you won’t want to miss!

🍽️ Grilled Turkey Club with Cranberry Mayo

  • Combo Deal: Includes fries 🍟 and a fountain drink 🥤 for just $9.99!

Stop by and grab this delicious combo while it lasts. Perfect for getting into the holiday spirit with a taste of turkey and a tangy twist! 🍂✨

🌟 Central Piedmont Students Shine at the 2024 AMG Heritage Awards

Two culinary students working the Heritage AwardsThe 2024 AMG Heritage Awards lit up the Dale F. Halton Theater on Oct. 26, and Central Piedmont students were at the heart of the action! From backstage glamour to culinary excellence, students from the Cosmetology and Culinary Programs showcased their talents at this prestigious event.

💄 Cosmetology in Action:

Cosmetology students took on the exciting challenge of styling hair and makeup for Music Artist Legends and NC Senior Beauty Queens. Some of the legendary artists included David L. Cooke, Denise Williams, and Skip Martin. Students got hands-on, real-world experience working before, during, and after the show, demonstrating their professionalism both in the dressing rooms and on stage.

  • Real-World Experience: This event gave students the chance to add high-profile experience to their professional portfolios, resumes, and profiles. We are so proud of their exceptional work and dedication!

🍽️ Culinary Creativity:

Students from the Culinary Program took the stage—well, the dining stage—by preparing and serving the After Show Reception dinner. They wowed guests with a spread of appetizing, creative delicacies, showcasing their culinary talents.

🙌 A Team Effort:

Led by department faculty and staff, this event provided students with a fun and enriching learning experience. A huge thank you to all the volunteers and the Halton Theater staff who made this opportunity possible!

Congratulations to our students for their incredible work at the AMG Heritage Awards! 🎉🌟

💖 Central Piedmont’s CASA Club Supports Breast Cancer Survivors at the Pink Boots Ball

Group of volunteers holding bags in front of Carolina Breast Friends sign

On Oct. 24, Central Piedmont’s Cosmetology Club (CASA Club) partnered with

Carolina Breast Friends Pink House to provide hair and makeup services for an inspiring cause. The annual Pink Boots Ball celebrates local women who have survived breast cancer and honors those we’ve lost.

Here’s what happened:

  • Hair & Makeup Services: CASA Club had the privilege of helping 20-26 survivors look and feel their best by offering complimentary hair and makeup services for the event.
  • Comfort Bags Donation: The entire Cosmetology Department, including educators and students, came together to create 12 Comfort Bags. These thoughtful bags contain items like:
    • Fleece blankets 🧣
    • Ginger candies & tea 🍬🍵
    • First-aid essentials
    • Puzzle books 🧩
    • And more, all to offer comfort to women undergoing breast cancer treatment.

This partnership with Carolina Breast Friends means the world to the CASA Club, and they’re excited to continue supporting and uplifting the women in our community.

Want to contribute? If you’re interested in donating Comfort Bags or learning more, reach out to Central Piedmont’s Cosmetology Department for details!

Together, we can make a difference! 💕

🧘‍♀️ Relax and Unwind Day with Counseling Services!

Student sitting on the ground, petting a white lab

Join Counseling Services on Wed., Nov. 6 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Central Campus, Parr Center, 1st Floor for a special day dedicated to relaxation and stress relief. Activities include:

  • Yoga 🧘‍♂️
  • Snack Bar 🍎
  • Art & Jewelry Making 🎨
  • Dog Therapy 🐕
  • Zen Station 🧘‍♀️

Take a break from your busy schedule and focus on your well-being! 🌿

Join us for the Transfer, Education, STEAM, and Hospitality Open House

A student works on a computer aided machining press to cut metal.Still deciding on your program of study? Join us for the Transfer, Education, STEAM, and Hospitality Open House to discover all that Central Piedmont has to offer. Whether you’re into arts, science, technology, or hospitality, this event is for you!

📅 Event Details:

  • 🗓️ Date: Thursday, Nov. 14
  • 🕙 Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • 📍 Location: Central Campus, Parr Center

What to Expect:

  • 🔍 Explore Programs: From Math and Arts to Technology and Engineering, check out our diverse academic offerings.
  • 💡 Meet the Faculty: Get inspired by meeting faculty members who are experts in their fields.
  • 🌱 Hands-On Experiences: Immerse yourself in real-world demonstrations and activities.
  • 🏫 Campus Tours: Explore classrooms, labs, and performance facilities to get a feel for your future learning spaces.
  • 💰 Financial Aid & Scholarships: Learn about resources to fund your education.
  • 🎓 Transfer Opportunities: Discover pathways for transferring to four-year institutions.

How to Register:

Please complete this form to secure your spot at the open house!

We’re excited to help you find your path at Central Piedmont! ✨

🌪️ Central Piedmont Faculty Lead Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts

Two men, shaking hands. One wears a hard hat and a reflective vestThe devastation left by Hurricane Helene has deeply affected communities across the region. In response, several Central Piedmont faculty members have stepped up to provide critical aid and support.

A Call to Action: Matt Smith’s Relief Efforts

  • Matthew Smith, associate dean of transportation, faced the storm’s aftermath near his home in Hickory. He, along with neighbors, used chainsaws and equipment to clear trees and debris blocking streets and driveways. But once he realized the full extent of the damage, he knew he had to do more.
  • Joining Forces: Smith traveled to Boone and partnered with Samaritan’s Purse to further the relief efforts. During one operation, he and fellow volunteers encountered an elderly couple trapped by a mudslide. It took nearly four and a half hours using an excavator and front loader to clear the mud and debris that had enveloped their home.
  • Restoring Hope: “You have people in absolute dire straits, and then an army of people from all over showed up to help,” Smith shared. “It was humbling and restored your faith in humanity.”
  • Smith returned to Boone four more times, bringing colleagues from the Transportation Department to assist with ongoing recovery efforts.

Matt Miller’s Innovative Approach

  • Matt Miller, chair of sustainability technologies, found inspiration to help after seeing the damage at his alma mater, Montreat College. He put his teaching into action by creating and donating mobile solar generators to provide families with a way to charge portable devices and small medical equipment. So far, seven units have been built and donated.
  • A New Project: After witnessing families tent camping beside the Swannanoa River, surrounded by walls of plastic water bottles, Miller and his class began working on a solar water pump project. The goal is to filter river water to provide clean, drinkable water to those in need.

Community Collaboration

Miller and Smith’s efforts were supported by several colleagues, including Amber and Shawn Dobbins, Chris Facente, Stephen Gerhardt, Brittany Holleran, Jason Johnson, John Monagle, Cory Palmer, and D.I. von Briesen. Chris Facente, the dean of skilled trades and transportation, praised their dedication and initiative:

“Both exemplify the values of collaboration, excellence, accountability for their communities, and courage. They weren’t asked to take these tasks on, but they knew it was the right thing to do.”

These efforts showcase Central Piedmont’s commitment to community service and the extraordinary dedication of its faculty to support those in need.

Interested in Becoming A Master Naturalist? 🌿

FlowersThe Central Carolinas Master Naturalist (CCMN) Program is now accepting applications for its 2025 Basic Training Course! If you have a passion for nature and want to contribute to your community, this program is the perfect opportunity.

🌳 About the CCMN Basic Training Course:

  • What You’ll Learn: The course provides the foundational knowledge and skills needed to serve as a dedicated CCMN volunteer. You’ll explore a wide range of natural history and science topics, preparing you to make a meaningful impact.
  • Hands-On Experience: Gain practical experience and connect with like-minded individuals who share your love for the environment.

📋 Ready to Apply?

The program is run in collaboration with Mecklenburg County Parks and Rec and Central Piedmont. For more details or to submit your application, reach out soon — spots are limited!

Become a part of a community committed to preserving and understanding our natural world. 🌍✨

🥐 A Taste of Bogotá: Central Piedmont Students Embark on a Culinary Adventure

Student picking fruit from a plantDuring an unforgettable study abroad journey to Bogotá, Colombia, students immersed themselves in the world of baking and pastry arts while discovering Colombia’s vibrant culinary culture. Here’s a glimpse into this transformative experience:

  • Hands-On Learning: Students kicked off the trip with a baking course at a local culinary school, mastering traditional Colombian techniques.
  • 🍫 Chocolate Workshop: Participants attended an engaging workshop where they tasted regional chocolates and crafted their own sweet creations.
  • ☕ Coffee Culture: A visit to a coffee plantation provided insights into Colombia’s renowned coffee heritage.
  • 📚 History of Desserts: Lectures at a local university explored the history of Colombian desserts and their cultural significance.
  • Indigenous Experience: The group visited an indigenous reservation to learn about traditional food practices and cultural heritage.
  • Market Visits: Exploring local agricultural markets and a lively food hall offered fresh flavors and regional specialties.
  • 🍰 Bakery Tours: Visits to Bogotá’s top pastry shops showcased the city’s best in baking and pastry artistry.
  • Evenings of Culture: Evenings featured live music, deepening the students’ connection to Colombia’s vibrant culture.
  • Fine Dining: Dining at some of South America’s top 50 restaurants introduced participants to modern Colombian cuisine.
  • Relaxation and Reflection: The journey concluded with a visit to thermal hot springs, wrapping up an enriching experience.

Made Possible by a Strong Partnership 🌏

This study abroad experience was made possible thanks to a collaboration with Global Learning and Campus B, our in-country hosts. Their support exemplifies Central Piedmont’s commitment to offering immersive global learning experiences, preparing students for a diverse culinary landscape.

Ready to explore the world and expand your culinary skills? Stay tuned for future study abroad opportunities! ✈️✨

🍰 The Rustic Whisk: A Student-Run Bakery and Bistro Launching Soon at Harris Campus!

The Rustic Whisk logo on a baby blue background

The Baking and Pastry Arts Program is thrilled to announce the opening of its capstone project — The Rustic Whisk, a cozy bakery and bistro located at Harris Campus. Come experience our warm and inviting atmosphere, where students handcraft artisan foods and pastries with creativity and passion.

📅 Days of Operation: Nov. 11 – Dec. 5

🕒 Hours: Monday-Thursday, 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Why Visit The Rustic Whisk?

  • 🌟 Real-World Experience: Students get hands-on experience in a professional setting, refining their skills and creativity.
  • 🥐 Handcrafted Goodness: Our goal is to create products that make you feel warm and welcome.
  • 💡 Student Growth: This capstone project allows us to grow as bakers and entrepreneurs in a supportive, real-world environment.

Stay Connected:

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @TheRusticWhiskCLT to keep up with our menu, specials, and behind-the-scenes content!

🌱 Discover Your Purpose with the Office of Mentoring and Coaching Oct. 24

purpose chatsReady to explore your purpose and set meaningful goals? Join the Office of Mentoring and Coaching for an inspiring session where we’ll dive into self-discovery and growth. Here’s what you need to know:

  • 🗓️ Date: Tues., Oct. 24
  • 🕑 Time: 2 p.m.
  • 📍 Location: Parr Center, Library, Room 2160

Topics We’ll Explore:

  • Who am I? 🌟
  • Goal Setting 🎯
  • Personal Values ❤️
  • Becoming 💡

There will be engaging activities and discussions designed for everyone. All are welcome to join this journey of self-discovery! If you’d like to attend, please fill out this registration form.

Let’s grow together! 🌻

🚀 Central Piedmont Shines at Charlotte Motor Speedway’s STEAM Expo

Coraline Elizabeth Timberlake Ross talks with students at the STEAM eventThe Charlotte Motor Speedway’s STEAM Expo on Oct. 11 hosted over 2,000 students and parents, with Central Piedmont at the heart of the action! 🏎️ Coraline Elizabeth Timberlake Ross, only 12, stole the spotlight as she guided students in using a patient care mannequin named Bartholomew III. With her stethoscope on and confidence high, Coraline offered hands-on training in emergency care techniques alongside her father, Andrew Ross, the college’s emergency medical science director. 🚑

Students explored 75 interactive stations, discovering the mechanics of decibels, robotics, coding, and more! Central Piedmont’s 14 departments, including Transportation Systems Technology, provided immersive experiences—showcasing the college’s dedication to STEAM education.

Read the full article, featured in EdNC.

Upcoming Arts Events in October, November 🖼️🎨

Dove Art Gallery

Get Your Art On!

  • Tuesday, Oct. 22 and Wednesday, Nov. 13, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
  • Cato Campus, Annable, Gorelick Gallery

The Central Piedmont Gorelick Galleries at Cato are thrilled to invite students to transform our display cases into vibrant works of art that reflect their degree or certificate programs.

Basket Weaving Demonstration

  • Friday, Oct. 25, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
  • Central Campus, Parr Center, Dove Gallery

Join us for a basket weaving demonstration hosted by Catawba artist Aaron Baumgardner.

Catawba Cultural Center Art Exhibition | Opening Reception

  • Friday, Oct. 25, 6-8 p.m.
  • Central Campus, Parr Center, Dove Gallery

Join us for an opening reception featuring artists from the Catawba nation.

🎭 Get Ready for The Addams Family at Central Piedmont!

The Addams Family musical logo with full moon and batsAmerica’s darkest family is back, and things are getting complicated when Wednesday Addams falls for a sweet young man from a “normal” family! 💕😱 With Gomez keeping secrets from Morticia, this dinner party is sure to bring chaos! 🍽️👻

📍 Location: Central Campus, Overcash Center, Halton Theater
🎟️ Tickets: Available for purchase now!

Showtimes:

  • Nov. 8, 7:30 p.m.
  • Nov. 9, 7:30 p.m.
  • Nov. 10, 2:30 p.m.
  • Nov. 14, 7:30 p.m.
  • Nov. 15, 7:30 p.m.
  • Nov. 16, 7:30 p.m.
  • Nov. 17, 2:30 p.m.

Specials:

  • 🎫 BOGO adult tickets for Thursday’s show with code 2 SNAPS
  • 🎓 Central Piedmont students get in FREE at the door with current student ID
  • 🎟️ Employees get up to two $10 tickets with code CPCCEMPLOYEE

 

✍️ English Faculty Member Publishes Article on Robert Frost’s Poem

Student reading book of poems

Donald Carte, an English Department faculty member at Central Piedmont, recently published an interdisciplinary analysis in Humanities focusing on Robert Frost’s iconic poem, The Road Not Taken. Carte’s article, “Deconstructing Two Roads: Applying the Psychology of Regret to Resolve the Mystery Surrounding Robert Frost’s Most Beloved Poem,” introduces a new perspective by incorporating research from psychology and history to unravel the poet’s intentions. This research began during Carte’s graduate studies at Harvard and expanded through his current doctoral work at the University of Memphis.