Category Archives: Cato Campus

National Transfer Student Week: Your path to a four-year degree starts here

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people talking at transfer fair

Oct. 20–24 | Multiple campuses and virtual 

Central Piedmont Community College is celebrating National Transfer Student Week with events designed to help students explore transfer options, connect with advisors, and learn how to save on a four-year degree. 

What’s happening: 

  • National Transfer Student Week Kick-Off 
    Mon., Oct. 20 | 10 a.m.–1 p.m. | Central Campus, Parr Center Quad
    Start the week with games, prizes, and fun as we launch the celebration. 
  • College Transfer Fair 
    Tue., Oct. 21 | 10 a.m.–1 p.m. | Central Campus, Parr Center, First Floor Lobby
    Meet representatives from over 30 colleges and universities across North Carolina. Learn about transfer partnerships, admissions, student engagement, and more. 
  • Guaranteed Admissions Virtual Sessions 
    Wed., Oct. 22 | 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. | Virtual
    Discover how to transfer to one of 15 four-year institutions in North and South Carolina through guaranteed admission programs. Learn how to save thousands on your degree. 
  • Transfer Tables 
    Thu., Oct. 23 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m. | All campuses
    Drop in to speak with academic advisors about your degree plan, campus resources, and transfer questions. 
  • College Spirit Day 
    Fri., Oct. 24 | All day | All campuses
    Show your school pride—wear your favorite college gear. 

Graduating this fall? It’s time to apply

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Three students dressed in caps and gowns at Commencement Ceremony.

Students in their final semester of a degree or diploma program at Central Piedmont Community College should submit their graduation application now. 

To be included in the Dec. printed program, students must apply and be found eligible by Fri., Oct. 10, 2025. 

How to apply: 

  • Log in to your MyCollege account 
  • Go to the Graduation Overview tab 
  • Select your program and term 
  • Click Submit 

Need help? Contact Graduation Services: 

Congratulations to all soon-to-be graduates! 

 

🌿 Fall plant sale coming to Cato Campus

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people looking at plants

Students and local plant lovers can stock up on fall greenery during Central Piedmont’s annual plant sale, hosted by the Horticulture program. 

When: 

  • Fri., Sept. 26: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. 
  • Sat., Sept. 27: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. 

Where: 
Cato Campus – Horticulture Building
3645 E. W.T. Harris Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28215 

Payment options: 

  • Cash 
  • Credit card 
  • Personal checks 

Why it matters: 
The sale features student-grown plants and supports hands-on learning in the Horticulture program. Come early for the best selection!  

📅 Need Back-to-School Help? We’ve Got You!

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students outside at fair

On-Campus Support Available Sat., Aug. 16 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Navigators, Advisors & ITS will be on all campuses to assist you

💰 Financial Aid Help Available at:

  • Central Campus
  • Cato Campus
  • Harper Campus
  • Levine Campus
  • Merancas Campus

💳 Cashiering Services Available at:

  • Central Campus
  • Cato Campus
  • Levine Campus

Pop-up information tables will be set up at all six campuses during the first few days of fall classes. Look for employees wearing name tag and “Ask Me” buttons if you need help finding your classes or answering general questions.

Information Tables will be available on Monday and Tuesday, August 18-19, from 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m., and on Wednesday, August 20, from 5-6 p.m.

Navigators are at Welcome Centers year-round, and are available to help.

💻 Tech Troubles? ITS Has You Covered

The ITS Service Desk is here to help with:

  • 🔐 Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
  • 📧 Email, MyCollege, and Brightspace access

🧰 Get Help:

  • Submit a request, chat live, or find how-to guides via the client portal
  • Call: 704.330.5000 (note: high call volume = slower help)

📍 In-person ITS Help:

Central Campus – 2nd Floor, Parr Center

Other campuses – Temporary support tables open Thu., Aug. 14 – Fri., Aug. 22, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (after 1 p.m. on Wed., Aug. 13)

  • Levine Campus – Levine I Lobby
  • Cato Campus – Cato I Lobby
  • Merancas Campus – Claytor Lobby
  • Harris Campus – Harris I Lobby
  • Harper Campus – Harper IV, 2nd Floor Lobby

🖊️ Need Help Registering for Classes?

You’re not alone! Registration help is available in person and online from Mon., Aug. 4 – Tue., Aug. 19.

💡 Pro tip: Join the queue ahead of time — click here to join ✔️

Honoring Our Veterans at Central Piedmont 🎖️

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Veteran speaks at a podium with an American flag in the background

Join Veterans Services on November 11 as we come together to honor the courageous men and women who have served in our armed forces. This special day is an opportunity for our community to recognize the dedication and sacrifice of our veterans. Let’s celebrate them with gratitude, respect, and community spirit!

🍽️ Veterans Day Luncheon Details:

Veterans Services will host luncheons at multiple campus locations. Find your nearest location below, and join us to enjoy food, camaraderie, and conversation:

  • Central Campus: Parr Center, Room 2160
  • Harper IV: Room 320
  • Merancas Campus: Veterans Center
  • Cato Campus: Annabelle Building, Multipurpose Room 024
  • Levine Campus: Veterans Center

⏰ Event Time: All luncheons will take place Nov. 11 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Come by, enjoy a meal, and support our veterans on this special day of celebration. Let’s show our veterans how much we value their service and contributions to our community.

Work It Wednesdays: Sept. 18 Opportunities to Network

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Students networking with potential employers

🚀 Work-It Wednesdays is coming to Cato, Central, Merancas, and Levine campuses on September 18! This is your chance to connect with top employers, land a job or internship, and take the next step in your career journey. Don’t miss out!

🕙 Date & Time (all locations): Wed., Sept. 18 | 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

🔑 Locations & Employers:

Cato Campus, Cato III, First Floor

Get More Event Details

Central Campus, Parr Center, First Floor

Get More Event Details

Levine Campus, Levine III, Second Floor

Get More Event Details

Merancas Campus, Merancas IV, First Floor

Get More Event Details

⚠️ Note: Employers attending may change. Be sure to check the event detail links for updates!

💼 Ready to plan ahead? Visit the Career Services website for the full list of upcoming hiring events!

Calling All Artists: Showcase Your Creativity at Central Piedmont! 🎨

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Two pieces of abstract art, side by sideAre you ready to let your artistic talent shine? ✨ The Gorelick Galleries at our Levine, Cato, and Harper campuses want YOU to transform their display cases into stunning works of art! 🖼️ Whether you’re working toward a degree or certificate, now’s your chance to collaborate, innovate, and showcase the exciting elements of your program through art.

🌟 Why participate?

  • Spotlight your creative side 🎨
  • Collaborate with fellow students 🤝
  • Bring your program’s vision to life 🌱

Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to get your creative juices flowing!

👉 How to get involved:
Contact Amelia Zytka at Amelia.Zytka@cpcc.edu or Jessica Fletcher at Jessica.Fletcher@cpcc.edu.

🎉 New Art Exhibits at Central Piedmont’s Gorelick Galleries!

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Two pieces of abstract artwork, side by sideThis semester, Central Piedmont’s Gorelick Galleries are brimming with fresh, inspiring art across multiple campuses! 🌟 Check out these incredible exhibitions and immerse yourself in creativity. 🎨

🖼️ Exhibit Highlights:

  • Levine Campus, Levine II, Ground Floor:
    • 🌟 Fragments by Tina Alberni
      Discover captivating pieces that explore the beauty in fragments and pieces.
  • Cato Campus, Annable Building, 1st Floor:
    • 🌍 Intangible Worlds by Marge Moody
      Step into surreal landscapes and abstract visions.
      (Select pieces also on display in the North Classroom Gorelick Gallery)
  • Central Campus, North Classroom, 1st Floor:
    • 📸 Archival Photos Reimagined
      Witness a creative reimagining of archival photos by Central Piedmont students, alumni, and staff.

Get inspired and enjoy these remarkable works this fall! 🍂✨

Week of Welcome at Central Piedmont: A Campus-by-Campus Guide! 🎉

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A group of students poses together in front of tents during welcome week activitiesWelcome to a brand-new semester at Central Piedmont! Our Week of Welcome is packed with exciting events across several campuses. Whether you’re new or returning, this is your chance to dive into the campus community, make new friends, and kick off the semester in style. Here’s what’s happening:

Central Campus Events

  • 📅 Mon., Aug. 19: Meet Your Coordinator 🤝
    Meet your Student Engagement Coordinator and win some cool prizes.
    Time: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
    Location: Parr Center, First Floor Lobby
  • 📅 Tues., Aug. 20: Coffee, Crafts, & Campus Activities Board (CAB) ☕🎨
    Enjoy coffee, unleash your creativity, and learn about the Campus Activities Board. A perfect opportunity to connect with new friends!
    Time: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
    Location: Parr Center, Room 0070
  • 📅 Wed., Aug. 21: Breakfast Bar 🍳🥞
    Join us for pancakes, cereal, fresh fruit, and more!
    Time: 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
    Location: Parr Center, Room 0060
  • 📅 Thurs., Aug. 22: Welcome [Throwback] Fest 🕺💃
    Dress in your best throwback swag and explore the amazing resources Central Campus has to offer. Music, games, and fun await!
    Time: Noon – 2 p.m.
    Location: Parr Center

Harris Campus and City View Events

  • 📅 Mon., Aug. 19: Meet Your Coordinator
    Meet your Student Engagement Coordinator and learn about upcoming events.
    Time: 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
    Location: Harris Campus, Harris I, Hallway
  • 📅 Tues., Aug. 20: Student Group Interest 🍩
    Explore student group opportunities while enjoying coffee and donuts. A great way to start your day!
    Time: 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
    Location: Harris Campus, Harris I, Hallway
  • 📅 Wed., Aug. 21: City View Yogurt Bar 🍓🍯
    Indulge in some healthy yogurt with fruit and granola while learning about upcoming events.
    Time: Noon – 1:30 p.m.
    Location: City View
  • 📅 Thurs., Aug. 22: Welcome [Throwback] Fest 🕺💃
    Show off your best throwback attire and discover the exciting resources available at Harris Campus. Enjoy music, games, and more!
    Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
    Location: Harris Campus, Harris I, Hallway

Cato Campus Events

  • 📅 Thur., Aug. 15: Breakfast Bar 🍳🥞
    Start your day with a free breakfast! Waffles, cereal, fresh fruit, and more are on the menu.
    Time: 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
    Location: Annable Building, Room 024
  • 📅 Tues., Aug. 20: Rotaract Sip & Craft ☕🛠️
    Interested in community service? Learn about the Rotaract Service Club while enjoying some coffee and crafting.
    Time: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
    Location: Annable Atrium
  • 📅 Wed., Aug. 21: Welcome [Throwback] Fest 🕺💃
    Dress up in your favorite throwback outfit and explore everything Cato Campus has to offer. Music, games, and plenty of fun await!
    Time: Noon – 2 p.m.
    Location: Annable Ground Floor

Levine Campus Events

  • 📅 Mon., Aug. 19: Meet Your Coordinator 
    Come meet your Student Engagement Coordinator and win some free swag!
    Time: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
    Location: Levine 1 Building Atrium
  • 📅 Tues., Aug. 20: Coffee, Crafts, & Campus Activities Board (CAB) ☕🎨
    Sip on some coffee, get creative with crafts, and learn all about the Campus Activities Board.
    Time: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
    Location: Levine 2 Building, Room 1400
  • 📅 Wed., Aug. 21: Welcome [Throwback] Fest 🕺💃
    Throw on your favorite retro attire and check out the awesome resources Levine Campus has to offer. Music, games, and more will be there!
    Time: Noon – 2 p.m.
    Location: Levine 2 Building, First Floor Hallway
  • 📅 Thurs., Aug. 22: Breakfast Bar 🍳🥞
    Start your day with a free breakfast! Waffles, cereal, fresh fruit, and more are on the menu.
    Time: 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
    Location: Levine 2 Building, Room 1400

Get involved, meet new people, and make the most of your time at Central Piedmont! We can’t wait to see you at Week of Welcome activities! 🎉

Dining Options at Central Piedmont: Fuel for Your Day

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Catalyst Coffee Bar, Harris Campus🍽️ Central Piedmont offers a variety of dining options across all six campuses. Enjoy full-service coffee bars, grab-and-go lunch stations, sandwich shops, breakfast/lunch spots, and more—all cashless. 💳

Need to Use Cash?

  • Purchase vouchers at the Cashiering Business Office on any campus.

Where to Find Food Services:

  • Cato, Central, and Levine Campuses: Full food services available.
  • All Campuses: Coffee bars and grab-and-go lunch stations ☕🥪

Vending Machines:

  • Available at all campuses with snacks, drinks, and microwaveable foods. No need to be hungry! 🍫🥤

Catering Services:

  • Our dining team now offers catering to fit any audience. Request a consultation to tailor your event. Internal and external customers welcome. No event is too small or too large. You won’t be disappointed! 🎉

📅 Review food service menus, locations, and hours.

Campus Stores: Your One-Stop Shop for Everything

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bookstore

🛍️ Central Piedmont Campus Stores are here to serve you! Physical stores are located on Central, Cato, and Levine Campuses, plus, enjoy the convenience of smart lockers at Harris, Harper, and Merancas Campuses for easy delivery.

Why Visit Our Campus Stores?

  • More than just books: Grab your coffee, drinks, snacks, and food options! ☕🍫
  • Free shipping on orders over $50! 🚚✨
  • Use your Financial Aid to shop with ease.

📅 Fall Hours:

  • Jul 29 – Aug 9 (Mon – Fri): 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Aug 10 (Sat): 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Aug 12 – 16 (Mon – Fri): 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Aug 17 (Sat): 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Starting Aug 19 (Mon – Fri): 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

📍 Visit us online to read more about our locations and services.

Reminder: FAFSA Night at Cato Campus 🎓

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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.

🗓 Date: Wed., May 29, 2024
📍 Location: Cato Campus, Building I, Rooms 220/221
🤝 Inclusivity: Spanish-speaking staff available
🚀 Secure Your Spot: Registration is required

📅 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

🕒 Food Services Summer Hours

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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.

🌞 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!

🔍 Uncover Your Financial Aid Potential at FAFSA Night 💼

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FAFSA Federal Student Aid logo

📚 Overcome financial barriers to your education with expert guidance from Central Piedmont at FAFSA Night. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is key to accessing federal, state, and institutional financial aid, including grants, loans, work-study, and scholarships.

What To Expect: A hands-on workshop focused on the 2024-2025 FAFSA Application.
Assistance Available For: State residency, college application, and creating your Federal Student Aid ID.
🗓 Date: Wed., May 29, 2024
📍 Location: Cato Campus, Building I, Rooms 220/221
🤝 Inclusivity: Spanish-speaking staff available.
🚀 Secure Your Spot: Registration is required.

Take control of your educational financing by attending this essential workshop. Don’t miss out on the chance to get personalized help with your FAFSA application to support your college journey. Join us and pave the way to your academic and financial success!

🌳 Arbor Day Celebration 🌲

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oak treeJoin 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:

  • When: Thurs., Apr. 25, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
  • Where:
    • Central Campus (Parr): Under the big magnolia
    • Harris Campus: In between Harris 1 and Harris 2 buildings
    • Merancas Campus: Courtyard between the CJ and TS buildings
    • Cato Campus: Horticulture area
  • What:
    • 🌱 Free tree saplings giveaway: Volunteers will distribute free tree saplings to attendees.
    • 📚 Plant care information: Get valuable tips and information on how to care for your new plants.

Don’t miss this opportunity to refresh your space and learn more about plant care from our dedicated volunteers. 🌍✨

Spread the word, and bring a friend! We look forward to seeing you there! 🌟

🎉 Connect and Explore at Speed Friendshipping Event!

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students at deskAre 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!

📚 Featured Book: Buttermilk Graffiti by Edward Lee

🗓️ Event Details:

  • Date: Thurs., Apr. 18
  • Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
  • Location: Cato Campus, Cato Amphitheater

🌦️ Weather Backup:
In case of inclement weather, we’ve got you covered! The backup location will be at Cato Campus, Room 024.

Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to make new friends, share experiences, and indulge in the vibrant diversity of our community. See you there! 🌟

📅 Central Piedmont Opens Doors on Saturdays for Session Kickoffs

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A student works on their laptop.Central Piedmont Community College is excited to announce special Saturday openings to better accommodate the needs of our students, faculty, and the broader community. Mark your calendar for these key dates, each strategically scheduled right before the start of new academic sessions.

Available Services:

  • Admissions
  • Registration assistance
  • Financial aid guidance
  • Academic advising

Key Dates:

  •  Spring Short Session:
    •  Begins: Mar. 11
    •  Campuses Open Sat., Mar. 9, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • Summer Session:
    • Begins: May 20
    • Campuses Open Sat., May 18, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • Fall 24 Session:
    • Begins: Aug. 12
    • Campuses Open Sat., Aug. 10, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • Fall 24 12 Week Short Session:
    • Begins: Sept. 9
    • Campuses Open Sat., Sept. 7, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • Fall 24 8 Week Short Session:
    • Begins: Oct. 14
    • Campuses Open Sat., Oct. 12, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Why Visit Us on Saturday?

  • Convenience: Access campus services without disrupting your weekday schedule.
  • Preparedness: Get everything set before your session starts.
  • Support: Our staff can answer any questions and help you navigate your academic journey.

Libraries:

  • Central Campus Library will remain open on Saturdays during the fall and spring semesters for current students and employees from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • All other campus libraries are closed on Saturdays.

Central Piedmont is committed to providing flexible options to support our students’ success. Whether you’re enrolling in a new session, need last-minute assistance, or have questions, we’re opening our doors extra wide to welcome you.

Your Success Starts Here: Take advantage of these special Saturday openings to ensure you’re fully prepared for the upcoming academic session.

See You on Campus!

FAFSA Nights: Unlock Your Financial Aid Potential

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FAFSA Federal Student Aid logo📚 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.

Blood Drive Coming to All Campuses

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one blood bus

Did you know that one blood donation can save up to three lives? You have greater powers than you know! Please consider donating blood at the upcoming blood drive on your designated campus this week and next week. Campus-specific drives are listed below. All donors will receive a $20 eGift Card, a OneBlood long-sleeve t-shirt, and a Wellness checkup.

Appointments are strongly encouraged by signing up in advance using the links below. To donate blood, a student must be 16 and over. Students 16 years of age will need a consent form signed by a guardian. Students 17 years of age do not need a consent form.

  • Central Campus – Jan. 17 | Overcash Circle, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
    Register here
  • Harris Campus – Jan. 18 | Harris I Circle, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
    Register here
  • Merancas Campus – Jan. 19 | Claytor Driveway/Pad, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
    Register here
  • Levine Campus – Jan. 22 | Levine I Fountain Circle, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
    Register here
  • Harper Campus – Jan. 23 | Harper I Lot B, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
    Register here
  • Cato Campus – Jan. 26 | Front of Cato III, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
    Register here