Category Archives: Community

You’re invited to Business & Accounting Week, Oct. 17-21

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Students at a business and career fair talk with employers.You’re invited to participate in a week of exciting events designed to educate, empower, and engage students for success in the classroom and in the workplace. Plus, meet and mingle with industry experts through panel discussions, participate in Q&A sessions, and learn about unique internship opportunities.

Live events are being held daily on Central Campus and virtually on WebEx:

Fall Break is Oct. 9-13

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The fall view at Cato Campus. with leaves turning colors.

The fall view at Cato Campus.

The fall view at Cato Campus.

Central Piedmont students, we hope you enjoy your week-long fall break!

This is a reminder that no classes will be held Oct. 9-13.

Our campuses will remain open during fall break, but some offices and services may operate on different schedules for the break.

Food service will close or hours will change for the week, and campus libraries will be open on shortened schedules.

It’s not too late to register— second session (8-week) classes will begin on Monday, Oct. 16.  Any new classes you’re starting will be available in Brightspace beginning that day. Also, if you picked up additional classes, please check your balance in MyCollege to see if you still need to pay your bill. Review the payment due dates.

What the Tech? Join Tech Week events Oct. 16-20

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3 students program 3D printers.Central Piedmont is celebrating Tech Week Oct. 16-20, with in-person events in a variety of technology topics.

Join us for any (or all!) of these sessions at Central Campus:

  • What the Tech is…Broadcasting: What’s going on, on the Radio
    Monday, Oct. 16 – 1p.m., Center for Arts Technology, Room 101
  • What the Tech is….Hardware: PC Guts and Stuff
    Monday, Oct. 16 – 3 p.m., Levine Technology Building, Room 5135 
  • What the Tech is….3D Modeling: 3D, 3D, 3D
    Tuesday, Oct. 17 – 3 p.m., Levine Technology Building, Room 1116 
  • What the Tech is…Artificial Intelligence (AI) : AI Wonderland!
    Wednesday, Oct. 18 – 3 p.m., Levine Technology Building, Room 1118 
  • What the Tech is…Project Management: Projects, Tasks, and Scrum
    Thursday, Oct. 19 – 1 p.m., Levine Technology Building, Room 5124 
  • What the Tech is…Programming: Coding and more Coding
    Thursday, Oct. 19 – 3 p.m., Levine Technology Building, Room 5123
  • What the Tech is…Virtual Reality (VR): We are who, VR!
    Friday, Oct. 20 – 3 p.m., Levine Technology Building, Room 1118

December Grads: You could be the Graduation Speaker

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A student graduation speaker gives a speech at the podium.You have a story – and it’s worth telling! Central Piedmont’s Graduation Committee is now accepting nominations of student graduates to serve as the student speaker at the December 2023 commencement celebration.

Ideally, you would share a pride in your educational journey, a passion for Central Piedmont, and would be willing and able to share your experience and wisdom during the graduation celebration on Thursday, Dec. 14.

Nominations will be accepted until October 31, through the student speaker nomination form. Check out the remarks to the graduating class from ReDeja Sawyer, a previous student speaker.

Students selected for an interview will be asked to prepare a sample of your speech through a brief written reflection of your college experience. Interviews and selection will conclude by November 10. The selected graduate will receive guidance, rehearsal, and support to prepare your official remarks.

Questions? Email amanda.capobianchi@cpcc.edu

Business, Technology and Engineering Open House, Oct. 21

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A student works on a computer aided machining press to cut metal.Still undecided on a program of study? Join us Saturday, October 21 at our business, technology, and engineering open house to explore our state-of-the-art business, technology, and engineering programs.

  • Saturday, October 21
  • 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Central Campus, Levine Technology Building

You’ll have an opportunity to:

  • discover our business, technology, and engineering academic programs
  • meet inspiring faculty
  • immerse yourself in real-world experiences
  • tour the business, information technology, and engineering buildings and classrooms on Central Campus
  • learn more about scholarships and financial aid
  • discuss transfer opportunities
  • meet with recruiters from local and global corporations

Please complete this form to register for our open house.
We can’t wait to see you there!

Domestic Violence Awareness Month events

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Domestic Violence Awareness Months #Every1KnowsSome1 Everyone knows someone who has been impacted by domestic violence. October is Domestic Violence Awareness month, and several Central Piedmont departments have teamed up for a series of events to shine light on this issue.

Panel discussion on power and control in relationships
Tuesday, Oct. 24, 9:30-10:45 a.m.

Survivor Stories Banner Rotation Schedule:

  • Sept. 29 – Oct. 13, Cato Campus, Cato I and Cato III lobbies
  • Oct. 13 – 20, Merancas Campus, Merancas IV, lobby
  • Oct. 20 – 27, Central Campus, Parr Center, Hagemeyer Library (Level 1)
  • Oct. 27 – Nov. 3, Levine Campus, Levine IV, lobby
  • Nov. 3 – 10, Harper Campus, Harper IV, lobby
  • Nov. 10 – 17, Harris Campus, Harris I, lobby
  • Nov. 17 – 21, CityView Center, lobby

Breast Cancer Walk at Levine, Oct. 4

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Breast Cancer AwarenessJoin the Breast Cancer Awareness Walk/Run: Stride for a Cause, in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

  • Wednesday, Oct. 4
  • 12 – 1:30 p.m.
  • Levine Campus, outside at the Pond

Lace up your sneakers and join us for a meaningful and invigorating event as we stride for a cause at the Breast Cancer Awareness Walk/Run. Let’s unite in the fight against breast cancer and promote physical activity.

  • Walk or Run: Choose your pace and complete the route around the pond at the back of campus.
  • Wear Pink: Show your support by wearing pink attire or accessories.
  • Freebies: Receive a breast cancer awareness headband and wristband.

 

October Career Services Events

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As the holiday season approaches, there are many seasonal hiring opportunities, providing not only some extra cash, but great resume building opportunities too.

You can search for seasonal jobs:

  • On Handshake. You can also use Handshake to find full- and part-time positions, paid internships, and more. On Handshake, select Jobs to get started and then search Seasonal.

All Work-It Wednesday events are 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Have questions? Contact Career Services or make an appointment with a Career Counselor.

Digital Inclusion Week Events Oct. 2-5

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Digital Inclusion WeekThe Central Piedmont Library and Digital Learning Space are hosting a series of events to celebrate digital equity in higher education with Digital Inclusion Week, from Oct. 2-5.

Review the Library’s LibGuide for details on the activities for Digital Inclusion Week.

Learn more about the Digital Literacy Learning Space.

Fall Fests help you find a Volunteer Opportunity

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Student Engagement wants to help you find your next volunteer opportunity at Fall Fests, at all campuses. You could discover your next passion, or build experience for your résumé.

How do you get experience before you get a job? You volunteer!

Attend an event to meet with local community partners and learn about volunteer opportunities in our community. You can also enjoy festive fall games, music and fun!

  • Wednesday, Sept. 27, 11 a.m.- 1p.m.
    Levine Campus, atrium
  • Thursday, Oct. 5, 11 a.m.- 1 p.m.
    Central Campus, Quad
  • Tuesday, Oct. 17, 11 a.m.- 1 p.m.
    Merancas Campus
  • Tuesday, Oct. 24, 11:30 a.m.- 1:30 p.m.
    Harris Campus, outside
  • Wednesday, Oct. 25, 11:30 a.m.- 1:30 p.m.
    Harper Campus, Harper IV courtyard
  • Monday, Oct. 30, 11:30 a.m.- 1:30 p.m.
    Cato Campus

Student Story: Mandy Watson

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Mandy Watson is a remarkable May 2023 graduate of the Baking and Pastry program at Central Piedmont. Her passion and unstoppable determination drove her to gain acceptance into Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society, obtain an internship with Executive Pastry Chef April Franqueza of High Hampton Resort in Cashiers, NC, and graduate with honors.

Mandy’s decision to attend Central Piedmont wasn’t solely about academics; it was about turning a passion into a career. “I chose Central Piedmont because of its exceptional culinary program with American Culinary Federation Certification and affordability,” Mandy shares.

Scholarships have notably helped Mandy pursue excellence. The NC Education Lottery Scholarship and the NC Community College Grant have played a crucial role in easing her financial burden. As an adult student with an existing small business and familial responsibilities, these scholarships have enabled Mandy to focus on her studies and plans without the added stress of financial constraints.

Mandy’s journey has been illuminated by mentors who doubled as instructors. “Chef Tanya, Chef Jenn, Chef Sandy, and Chef Tessia have been more than just instructors.” Mandy reveals, “Chef Tessia’s encouragement pushed me to explore new flavors and techniques that have helped expand my pallet and make my dreams a reality.” Mandy’s advice for other Central Piedmont students: “Utilize your instructors. Ask questions and keep an open mind when they critique your creations and ideas. Instructors are there to help you be the best you can be.”

So what should we expect to see from Mandy in the future? “Food should be an experience. I dream of owning a food truck that brings moments of joy to my customers and allows them to discover flavors they haven’t experienced before.”

Mandy is set to open Wicked Provisions Bakehouse, a new European-style bakery in Hickory, NC, in October 2023. Check it out on Instagram: @wicked.provisions.bakehouse

60 Years Strong: new Library exhibit on Central Piedmont

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Exhibit of Central Piedmont artifacts of photos, brochures and historical items surrounding a large tree with the college seal on the tree trunk.“60 Years Strong – How Deep Our Roots Go,” an exhibition by the Central Piedmont Archives, celebrates Central Piedmont’s rich history and the success of our institution over six decades.

Our college seal inspires the crafted tree and represents our growth into a “mighty tree” of an institution in Mecklenburg County. When viewing the display, you will learn about some of the many examples of educational opportunities championed by our current and past presidents displayed along the bottom of the case, symbolized as the roots. Evidence of these opportunities’ positive impact on student success is represented by the branches and leaves that have grown from these roots.

This exhibition is dedicated to our students of present, past, and future who make an impact in historic ways.

To view the display in person, please visit the Archives on the third floor of the Hagemeyer Library in the Parr Center, Central Campus.

To view the display online, please visit our digital exhibit guide.

Transfer Tuesdays and the Transfer Fair

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Four smiling students flash peace signs and smiles for the camera.Are you looking for a 4-year school to attend after your time at Central Piedmont? Academic Advising and Transfer Services have several events to help you find your next school on your educational journey.

Transfer Tuesdays
Need to talk directly with your intended transfer College or University?  College representatives are visiting our Cato, Central, Levine, and Merancas Campuses all through the fall semester.
Review the calendar of Transfer Tuesdays events.

National Transfer Student Week, Oct. 16 – 20.
Virtual and in-person events will be held all week, attend all the events if you can! Review Central Piedmont’s events for National Transfer Student Week.

Annual Fall Transfer Fair
This is a can’t miss event. Meet with over 25+ North Carolina Colleges and Universities to learn more about the admissions requirements, programming, student life and so much more.

  • Tuesday, Oct. 17
  • 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • Central Campus, Parr Center, First Floor lobby

Review the colleges and universities participating in the Fall Transfer Fair.

Register for Second Session Classes

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Four students smile for the camera while at a campus event.Fall break is coming Oct. 9-13, but what are your plans for second session? The next 8-week session begins Oct. 16, and it’s not too late to register for second session classes.

Stay on track with your plans! Consult with your academic advisor to make sure you’re taking the right classes for your program. You can find your advisor in Watermark, and contact them, or schedule an appointment to meet.

Upcoming Counseling Workshops

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Student painting on a canvas with jars of paint on the table.Counseling Services is hosting two upcoming in-person workshops to help you find balance and de-stress.
Adiós Stress
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, Counseling Services will host a coloring event. Drop by any time:
  • Tuesday, Sept. 26
  • 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Central Campus, Parr Center, near the Quad entrance
Coping Skills Workshop
Come and learn how to cope with life’s stressors and how to identify a support system. You will also get the chance to create your very own coping cards!
  • Wednesday, Sept. 27
  • 2 -3:15 p.m.
  • Cato Campus, Cato III, Room 024
No registration is required for either event, we hope to see you there.

Student Story: Nelani Faatiliga

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Nelani FaatiligaNelani Faatiliga is an ambitious architectural technology student at Central Piedmont who embodies the spirit of self-discovery and determination. Continuing her mother’s legacy of being a college graduate, and making her father proud, Nelani’s journey is an inspirational one.

In choosing Central Piedmont, Nelani realized there were numerous opportunities for personal and academic growth nearby. She shares, “The Cato campus has always been a part of my life, but I never imagined I would attend it. It is close to home, which is ideal for me. It has clubs that I can join or start to gain experience that will prepare me for the job market.”

As a William Randolph Hearst Endowed Scholarship recipient, Nelani’s journey has been made more accessible and free from the burden of financial obligations. As well as lightening her financial burden, this scholarship has ignited her architectural dreams. In addition to being active in the Rotaract Club, Nelani plans to become a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA).

The road to architectural technology wasn’t easy for her. Initially, Nelani chose psychology because she doubted her ability to excel in STEM fields. However, a break from college allowed her to rediscover her potential. “I realized that I had the potential to become an architect,” she says. “I’ve always wanted to build my own home from the ground up, and with my degree in architecture, I will be able to do so.”

Nelani’s career aspirations are clear – she’s on a path to becoming an architect with a focus on residential, industrial, and green design architecture. Her ultimate goal is to co-own a company with her significant other that is a mix of architecture and Turf management. Nelani’s drive is fueled by a passion for building things and bringing the imaginable to life.

Nelani values Central Piedmont’s blend of academic excellence and vibrant campus life the most. “I’ve met some of the most dedicated Professors, attended the Welcome Fest, Twisted and Tangled Event, and so much more!” she exclaims. For her, college isn’t just about learning in the classroom but seizing opportunities everywhere.

Beyond academics, Nelani’s zest for life led her to tandem skydiving in Hawai’i during a college spring break. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that mirrors her fearless pursuit of her dreams. Although her college journey has been a learning curve, Nelani is determined to make her parents proud and forge ahead with confidence.

Nelani’s advice for future Central Piedmont students: “Learn to overcome your fears and don’t allow pride to cloud your judgment of reality.” 

Super Smash Bros. Tourney Sept. 22

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Super Smash Pros. TournamentCalling all gamers! Ready to prove your Super Smash Bros. abilities? Hosted by Central Piedmont’s International Game Developers Association (IGDA) and Diversity in Games (DiG) student groups, join our student tournament for epic battles, competition, and a shot at gaming glory.

  • Friday, Sept. 22
  • 3 – 7 p.m.
  • Central Campus, Parr Center, Rooms 0060 & 0070

You must register by Sept. 21, and all tickets are cash at the door. Sign up now and let’s settle it in Smash!

Questions? Email silas.irizarry@cpcc.edu.

Attend Student Discussion with New York Times Bestseller

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Kate Andersen Brower is the author of the #1 New York Times bestseller “The Residence,” which is being made into a television series produced by Shonda Rhimes for Netflix. Parr Arts & Huanities Series Kate Andersen Brower

Kate is coming to Central Piedmont for an evening event on Sept. 19, and is also hosting a session just for students on Wednesday Sept. 20.

The student event will be a Q&A session related to her journey and experiences as a journalist, historian, and public speaker. Attendees will be eligible to win a free swag bag and/or copy of one of Kate’s books.

  • Wednesday, Sept. 20 12:30- 1:30 p.m.
  • Central Campus, Parr Center, Rooms 0600 & 0070

More about her: Kate Anderson Brower is the author of the #1 New York Times bestseller “The Residence” and “First Women,” also a New York Times bestseller, as well as “Team Of Five,” “First In Line,” and the children’s book “Exploring the White House.”

She is a CNN contributor and she covered the Obama administration for Bloomberg News and Businessweek and traveled as part of the White House press corps. She also covered First Lady Michelle Obama and Vice President Joe Biden.