πŸ” Uncover Your Financial Aid Potential at FAFSA Night πŸ’Ό

FAFSA Federal Student Aid logo

πŸ“š Overcome financial barriers to your education with expert guidance from CentralΒ 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.
πŸ—“ Date: Wed., May 29, 2024
πŸ“ Location: Cato Campus, Building I, Rooms 220/221
🀝 Inclusivity: Spanish-speaking staff available.
πŸš€ Secure Your Spot: Registration is required.

Take control of your educational financing by attending this essential workshop. Don’tΒ 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!

πŸ† TRIO Student Support Services Hosts First Annual End of the Year & Awards Banquet

On Thurs., Apr. 25, 2024, TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) held their inaugural End of the Year & Awards Banquet at the Greenway Restaurant, nestled within the Philip L. Van Every Culinary Arts Center.

Candid photo of people during the awards banquet, with attention directed to the front of the room

Key Highlights:

  • Guest Speaker: Dr. Jonathan N. Livingston, Interim Chair & Professor of Psychology at North Carolina Central University, and a distinguished alum of Central Piedmont and TRIO SSS, graced the event with his insightful words.
  • Student Reflections: Shania Johnson & Nahomie Musangusangu ’23 shared their reflections on their TRIO SSS journey.

Award Criteria:

Participants were lauded for their exceptional efforts, resilience, academic excellence, and program completion (Spring 2024 graduates). The prestigious TRIO Alumni Achievement Award was bestowed upon a Central Piedmont staff member and alum of TRIO SSS, recognizing their outstanding personal and professional accomplishments. πŸŽ“ Additionally, awards were granted to students achieving a GPA between 3.0 to 3.9, as well as campus partners pivotal in supporting the staff to meet participants’ needs.

πŸŒŸπŸŽ‰ Award Recipients Include:

  • TRIO Rising Stars: Sabina Darjee and Brian Luong
  • TRIO Shining Star: Edward Freeman
  • TRIO Scholars of Distinction (Participants with a 4.0 Cumulative GPA): Johana Castro-Castro and Taylor Williams
  • Certificate of Completion (Spring 2024 Graduates): Valleska Chay, Nikale Davis, Flavina Derrick, Shania Johnson, Shakiyla Pickens, and Maria Flores Malagon
  • TRIO Alumni Achievement: Mary Davis, Financial Aid
  • Campus Partner: Grants Performance & Development Office

The evening was a testament to the dedication and achievements of the TRIO SSS community, marking a memorable conclusion to the academic year. Congratulations!

🌿 Celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month 🌿

Counselor and student talking at a table

May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of mental well-being. Central Piedmont is committed to supporting our students’ mental health through various counseling services designed to foster academic success, personal growth, and emotional resilience.

Available Counseling Services:

  • 🏫 In-Person Counseling: Available across all campuses to help you with mental and emotional health concerns.
  • πŸ–₯️ Remote Therapy Sessions: Offering video appointments for flexible scheduling and easier access. Often, these can be scheduled sooner due to the high demand for specific time slots.
  • πŸ“… Appointments: You can schedule virtual, phone, or in-person sessions on the counselor’s assigned campus.

When to See a Counselor:

  • Relationship issues
  • Stress management and coping skills
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Grief and loss
  • Life balance and self-care
  • Goal-setting
  • Substance use
  • Or anything else causing you worry or distress

Contacting a Counselor:

  • πŸ‘₯ Our diverse staff are trained in various specializations. When scheduling, communicate any preferences you might have.
  • βœ‰οΈ Complete the intake form on our website, and a counselor will contact you to arrange a session.
  • πŸ“ž For general inquiries, call 704-330-6420 or send an email.

🌟 Highlight Event: Counseling on the Green 🌟 On Apr. 17, the Central Campus Quad was bustling with the “Counseling on the Green” event, which saw over 500 students participate. This event featured:

Student receives a chair massage during Counseling on the Green event

  • Mindfulness meditation
  • Chair massages by our Massage Therapy program
  • Therapy dogs
  • Low-impact yoga
  • “Theater with a Therapist”
  • “Kick Away Your Fears”
  • Gratitude letters

πŸ™Œ Special Thanks to Our Contributors:

  • Massage Therapy Program: Delivered 112 relaxing chair massages.
  • Sondra Hines Yates (NextGen Program): Led enriching yoga sessions.
  • Therapy Dogs International: Provided comfort with their canine volunteers.
  • Human Services Club: Added a refreshing twist with mocktails and affirmations.
  • Student Engagement: Crucial in planning and supporting the event.Counseling on the Green yoga with students

πŸ’‘ Remember: Mental health is as important as physical health. Utilize our services to improve your well-being and academic performance. Let’s make mental health a priority this May and beyond! 🌈

For more details on upcoming workshops and activities, visit our counseling services page!

πŸŽ‚ Free Cake Tasting on May 6

Join us for a delightful display of culinary artistry at the Baking and Pastry Arts student cake showcase. Here’s what you need to know:

  • πŸ“… Date: Mon., May 6
  • Baking and Pastry Arts student making a cakeπŸ“ Location: Harris I, Student Life
  • πŸŽ‚ Showcase Time: 11:00 – 11:30 a.m. (Cake viewing)
  • 🍴 Tasting Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (Cake tasting)

Each talented student has meticulously crafted and designed their own three-tier wedding cake, showcasing their skills and creativity.

🌟 Why Attend? It’s the perfect way to take a break, indulge in some delicious cake, support our students, and learn more about the Baking and Pastry Arts program. Your encouragement means the world to our aspiring pastry chefs!

Don’t miss out on this sweet opportunity to celebrate the hard work and dedication of Central Piedmont’s finest budding pastry chefs! πŸŽ“πŸ‘©β€πŸ³

🌟 Central Piedmont Volunteers Shine at Rise Against Hunger Event! 🌟

Rise Against Hunger LogoCentral Piedmont’s Mentoring/Coaching and Student Engagement offices are sending out a massive thank you to everyone who participated in the Rise Against Hunger event last Thu., Apr. 25, at the Central Campus. Here’s a quick recap of the incredible impact you made:

  • πŸ“¦ Meals Packed: A whopping 10,152 meals were assembled and packed.
  • πŸ‘« Volunteers: Over 60 wonderful volunteers, including staff and students, joined forces.
  • 🌍 Global Impact: Your efforts support Rise Against Hunger’s mission to eradicate hunger worldwide by distributing nutritious meals.

We’re immensely proud of our Central Piedmont community for showing a commitment to giving back. Together, we are making a difference in countless lives.

πŸ‘€ Missed the event? Check out our highlight video.

Again, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your generosity and spirit exemplify what it means to be part of Central Piedmont. πŸ’™

πŸŽ“ Central Piedmont May Graduation Commencement Details

Graduates at commencement, cheeringCentral Piedmont is thrilled to honor our graduates’ hard work and achievements as they walk across the stage to commemorate this momentous milestone. We hope you will join us in celebrating your classmates and friends! πŸŽ‰

πŸ“ Location: Bojangles Coliseum
πŸ—“οΈ Date: Thurs., May 9, 2024

⏰ Times: 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

πŸ‘œ Important Notes:

πŸŽ₯ Livestreaming: Can’t make it in person? Join us via YouTube, where we’ll be livestreaming the festivities at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

🐾 Pawsitive Finals: Pet Therapy

Looking to escape the whirlwind of finals? Seek solace and comfort in the company of our furry friends at the upcoming pet therapy session, brought to you by the Health Sciences.

Here’s what you need to know:Students gathered around a dog, petting it

  • πŸ“… Date: Tues., Apr. 30th, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
  • πŸ“ Location: Central Campus, North Quad
  • 🌿 What to Expect:
    • Experience a rejuvenating session designed to calm your mind and lift your spirits.
    • Interact with our adorable therapy pets for a dose of peace and joy amidst the stress of finals.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to unwind and recharge! Mark your calendars and join us for a blissful break from the chaos of finals.Β 

🌍 Get Ready to Explore with the Study Abroad Programs πŸ›«

Collage of international cityscapes with a photo of students travelling abroad in the centerCentral Piedmont Community College students, your global classroom awaits! Check out the upcoming study abroad opportunities to expand your horizons:

Fall Break 2024 Offerings:

πŸ“… Deadline for Fall 2024 Applications: May 31, 2024. Don’t miss out on these immersive learning experiences!

Peek into 2025…

  • ❄️ Yellowstone Winter Ecology – Montana
    • Date: Mar. 8-16, 2025 (Spring Break)
  • 🎡 Music Appreciation in Florence, Italy – Summer 2025
  • 🎬 Japanese Warlords in Modern Media – Japan – Summer 2025
  • πŸ§›β€β™‚οΈ Dracula: History & Literature in the United Kingdom and Romania – Summer 2025

Stay tuned for the full reveal of our 2025 programs. We can’t wait to take you on adventures that promise unparalleled experiences and insights!

For more info, visit our website. 🌐

Don’t just dream it, explore it! πŸš€πŸŽ’

πŸŽ“πŸŒ Celebrating Scholars of Global Distinction! πŸ…πŸŽ‰

The Center for Global Engagement is thrilled to honor students who are completing the North Carolina Scholars of Global Distinction Program in the upcoming spring and summer terms of 2024.

global distinction students

Here’s what you need to know:

  • πŸ—“οΈ Capstone Recognition Ceremony
    • Date: Fri., Apr. 26, at 1 p.m.
    • Location: Central Campus, Parr Center Library Event Space, Room 2160
  • 🌍 About the Ceremony
    • Celebrate the journey of our capstone students becoming global citizens.
    • Watch as they receive honor cords for graduation.
    • Witness the presentation of the completion certificate from World View at UNC Chapel Hill.
  • πŸ₯‚ Festivities to Follow
    • Enjoy refreshments and a time of celebration after the ceremony.
  • βœ… RSVP Required
  • Spread the word and encourage peers to attend in support of our scholars!

Mark your calendars and join us to applaud the achievements of our dedicated students. We can’t wait to see you on Apr. 26! πŸ“†πŸ‘

🦈🌊 Global Engagement Presents: Great White Sharks & Marine Biology 🌐🐠

Marine Dynamics logoStudents are invited to embark on an underwater adventure with our virtual event:

Understanding Great White Sharks & Marine Biology

  • πŸ“† Date/Time: Mon., Apr. 29, from 9:30 – 11 a.m.
  • 🀿 Hosted by: Marine Dynamics – Leaders in Sharks & Marine Biology
  • πŸ“ Location: Virtual event via Zoom

Event Highlights:

  • πŸ’‘ Engaging Topic: Explore the depths of South Africa’s “Shark Capital,” Gansbaai, without leaving your home.
  • 🧬 Expert Insight: Hear directly from the Marine Dynamics Academy on their pivotal research and conservation work.
  • 🏷️ Tag-Along: Discover the intricacies of shark tagging and behavioral studies.

Don’t Miss Out:

🌟 Join us for this exclusive opportunity to learn from the frontlines of marine ecological research and gain valuable knowledge in the field of marine biology. Register today!

πŸŽ“ Empowering First-Generation Students at Career Leadership Conference

From April 11-14, 2024, Miami, Florida, played host to the 2024 First Generation Student Career Leadership Experience at the Florida International Biscayne Bay campus. This conference served as a platform for first-generation students to embark on a journey toward career leadership success in college and beyond!

🌟 Key Highlights:

  • Central Piedmont’s Office of Mentoring and Coaching proudly sponsored ten students and two staff members, including:

Tamia Bowman, Nikale Davis, Shania Gayle, Moises Guerrero De Lerma, Shania Johnson, Victoria Moore, Emmanuel Peoples, Melena Reddi, Nalaysia Summers, and Ebony Winters.

Tamia Bowman, Nikale Davis, Shania Gayle, Moises Guerrero De Lerma, Shania Johnson, Victoria Moore, Emmanuel Peoples, Melena Reddi, Nalaysia Summers, and Ebony Winters.

🀝 Engaging Opportunities:
Throughout the three-day event, attendees connected with peers listened to inspiring speakers who were also first-generation students and gained insights from successful professionals who, like them, started their journeys as first-generation professionals. Every program at the conference was meticulously crafted to address the career awareness, readiness, and development needs of first-generation students dynamically and enjoyably.

πŸŽ‰ Celebrating Success:
A special congratulations to Ebony Winters for winning the Circle of Leadership Scholarship! πŸ†

πŸ‘ Final Thoughts:
The 2024 First Generation Student Career Leadership Experience was more than just a conference; it was a transformative experience designed to empower first-generation students on their path to success. Central Piedmont is proud to have been a part of this incredible event and looks forward to continuing to support the success of our first-generation students.

πŸŽ‰ Connect and Explore at Speed Friendshipping Event!

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!

πŸ“š Featured Book: Buttermilk Graffiti by Edward Lee

πŸ—“οΈ 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! 🌟

🎢 Discover Harmony at Central Piedmont’s Music Events!

band

Explore the melodies of conflict and concord at Central Piedmont’s upcoming music events, featuring talented ensembles, music students, and faculty. From classical compositions to contemporary tunes, there’s something for every musical palate. Join us for an unforgettable auditory journey!

🀝 CONFLICT RESOLUTION Open Mic Event

  • Date: Wednesday, Apr. 17
  • Time: 12:20 p.m.
  • Location: Parr Center, Collaborative Staircase

πŸ•ŠοΈ WAR & PEACE Musical Showcase

  • Date: Wednesday, Apr. 17
  • Time: 7:20 p.m.
  • Location: Tate Hall, Overcash Center

🎸 BATTLE of the BANDS Extravaganza

  • Date: Thursday, Apr. 18
  • Time: 12:20 p.m.
  • Location: Parr Center, Collaborative Staircase

Immerse yourself in the captivating sounds of Central Piedmont’s talented vocalists and instrumentalists. Don’t miss these electrifying performances! 🎡

🍽️ Mastering Professionalism: Soft Skills Etiquette Luncheon

students shaking hands

Prepare to sharpen your professional edge at Central Piedmont’s Soft Skills Etiquette Luncheon! This event, designed to equip students with essential soft skills for success in today’s competitive job market, promises an enlightening experience focused on interpersonal communication and etiquette principles.

πŸ—“οΈ Event Details:

  • Date: Wed., Apr. 24
  • Time: 1:30–3 p.m.
  • Location: Parr Center, Room 1000, Central Campus
  • Attire: Business Casual

πŸ‘” Dress for Success:
Prepare to impress by visiting the Professional Clothing Closet on:

  • Tues., April 9
  • Tues., April 16
  • Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Location: Worrell Building, Room 1152, Central Campus

πŸ“ Register Now:

Secure your spot at the Soft Skills Etiquette Luncheon by registering today!

Don’t miss this invaluable opportunity to refine your professional etiquette and elevate your career prospects. See you there! πŸš€

Join the Meck Mile Fun Next to Central Campus on May 25th! πŸƒβ€β™€οΈπŸŽ‰

Get ready for a day of energy, excitement, and community spirit! The Meck Mile, presented by Albemarle, is set to take off next to Central Piedmont’s Central Campus. This event isn’t just a race; it’s a celebration for all, perfectly tailored for walkers, runners, and everyone in between!

MeckMile LogoMeck Mile course

Event Details:

  • Date: Sat., May 25
  • Finish Line Festivities: Cross into Memorial Stadium to a party with a beer garden, live music, a kids’ area, and more.
  • Free for Kids: Young runners, 13 and under, can join the race without charge when they sign up before the event day.

Special Perks:

  • Discount Offer: Use the promo code in your college email by Sun., Apr. 14, for an exclusive registration discount.
  • Online Registration: Ready to lace up? Visit the Meck Mile website to secure your spot.

Stay Connected:

  • Social Media: Keep up with the latest updates by following the Meck Mile on Instagram and Facebook.

A Mile for All: Whether you’re sprinting, strolling, or cheering, the Meck Mile is about bringing our community together, one step at a time. Don’t miss out on the fun next to Central Piedmont – because this is one day, one mile, for everyone! πŸŽΆπŸ»πŸ‘Ÿ

Architecture Students Shine at Midterm Presentation Event 🌟

Architecture students recently showcased their talents and hard work during a pivotal midterm presentation event. This gathering was not only a platform for presenting design projects but also a vibrant forum for exchanging innovative ideas and narratives through architectural design.

architectiure students

Event Highlights:

  • Diverse Presentation Techniques: Students employed various methods to bring their visions to life, from traditional hand-drawing and physical model-making to advanced design and technical software.
  • Narrative-Driven Designs: The focus extended beyond architectural solutions, emphasizing the storytelling aspect of design to effectively communicate their visions.

Remarkable Talent on Display: One of the event’s standout moments came from Karen Dominguez Sanchez, whose exceptional model-making skills garnered admiration from peers and professionals alike.

architectiure students

Esteemed Guests and Educators:

  • Jarinat Williams, AIA, NCARB from Passero Associates
  • William Allen from FMK Architects
  • Zane Gray from C Design
  • Stefan Pienkny, Adjunct Instructor at Central Piedmont
  • Supported by Travis Smith, Architecture Department Chair, and Abeer Ibrahim, Assoc. AIA, Full-Time Faculty for Architecture

Gratitude for Participation: Central Piedmont extends a heartfelt thank you to:

  • Our dedicated students, for their commitment and hard work in preparing for this event.
  • Our guest architects and educatorsΒ for providing invaluable feedback and insights, enhancing the educational experience for our students.

This event not only highlighted the incredible talent within Central Piedmont’s Architecture Department but also reinforced the importance of collaboration and feedback in the architectural community. Opportunities like these enrich our students’ educational journeys, preparing them for successful futures in architecture and design.

architectiure students

🌟 “The Impossible Dream” with Aaron Lazar: An Evening of Inspiration 🎭

Come to Halton Theater for an unforgettable evening with the acclaimed actor and Broadway sensation Aaron Lazar. This event, hosted in collaboration with the Joe Martin ALS Foundation, promises to be more than just a performance; it’s a journey through song and story that celebrates perseverance, healing, courage, a positive mindset, and the essence of living in the moment.

Event Details:

  • Date: Wed., Apr. 18, 2024
  • Time: 7 – 8 p.m.
  • Location: Central Campus, Overcash Building, Halton Theater
  • Admission: Free for Central Piedmont students and employees with a valid ID

Why Attend?

  • Inspirational Journey: Aaron Lazar will share his incredible journey, marked by his recent ALS diagnosis, through an inspiring musical and narrative performance.
  • Raise Awareness: This special evening aims to raise awareness about ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), illuminating the challenges and hopes of facing such a diagnosis.
  • Message of Hope: Learn about finding purpose, joy, and hope amidst life’s most daunting challenges, as conveyed through Lazar’s moving rendition of β€œThe Impossible Dream.”
  • Community Support: Join the Central Piedmont community and the Joe Martin ALS Foundation in supporting those affected by ALS and celebrating the indomitable spirit of resilience and positivity.

Highlights:

  • Award-Winning Talent: Experience the magnetic presence and talent of Aaron Lazar, whose accolades span Broadway, television, and film.
  • Meaningful Cause: Contribute to a cause that seeks to bring light to ALS, offering support and understanding to individuals and families navigating this condition.
  • Connect and Reflect: This event is not just a performance but an opportunity to connect with others, reflect on the power of a positive outlook, and be inspired to live fully in every moment.

Don’t miss this extraordinary evening with Aaron Lazar at Central Piedmont’s Halton Theater. Whether you’re a Broadway fan, interested in supporting ALS awareness, or in need of an uplifting message, this event promises to be a memorable and impactful experience.

πŸŽ‰ Celebrate Charlotte’s Rich History at the Free Charlotte History Festival πŸ“š

festivalCentral Piedmont Community College is proud to be part of the exciting Charlotte History Festival, hosted by Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation, celebrating its 50th anniversary. This special event promises a journey through Charlotte’s vibrant history, featuring local artists, live music, delectable food and beverages, and much more. Join us at Independence Park for an educational and fun-filled day!

Festival Details:

  • Date: Sat., Apr. 20, 2024
  • Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Location: Independence Park, 300 Hawthorne Lane, Charlotte, NC 28204
  • Admission: Free for all attendees

Why Attend?

  • Educational Programming: In collaboration with the Trail of History and various local partners, including Central Piedmont, the festival offers a rich array of history programming and education.
  • Community Outreach: Engage with community outreach organizations and learn more about Charlotte’s local initiatives and projects.
  • Cultural Experience: Enjoy live performances by local artists and musicians, adding a lively ambiance to the historical exploration.
  • Food and Beverages: Savor delicious local cuisine and refreshing beverages as you stroll through the festival.

Highlights:

  • Local History: Discover the stories and milestones that shaped Charlotte, brought to life by historians and local experts.
  • Art and Music: Experience Charlotte’s cultural vibrancy through live music performances and art displays.
  • Community Engagement: Connect with fellow community members and organizations in a celebration of local heritage and pride.

For more information about the Charlotte History Festival, please visit the Charlotte Trail of History.

🎭 Central Piedmont Theatre Welcomes You to William Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” 🌟

Twelfth Night logoOne of William Shakespeare’s most celebrated comedies, β€œTwelfth Night” is a tale of mistaken identity, love, and the revelry of the festive season.

The play unfolds when a young woman named Viola washes up on the shores of far-off Illyric. Believing her twin brother Sebastian perished in the wreck, Viola disguises herself as a man named Cesario to navigate the unfamiliar land. Employed by Duke Orsino, Viola (now Cesario) is charged with communicating Orsino’s attempts to woo the Countess Olivia.

However, a twist ensues when Olivia, captivated by Cesario’s charm, falls in love with the disguised Viola. The plot thickens as Viola herself is smitten with Orsino, creating a triangle of unrequited love.

College and high school students are admitted free with a student ID at the door.

Adults can buy one ticket and get one free for the performance on Thursday, May 2.

DATES
Friday, April 26, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, April 27, 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, April 28, 2:30 p.m.
Thursday, May 2, 7:30 p.m.
Friday, May 3, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 4, 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 5, 2:30 p.m.

TICKETS

New Apparel Items Available in the Bookstore!

bookstoreLooking to update your wardrobe with some campus flair? The Central Piedmont Bookstore has broadened its horizons, offering an expanded line of “online only” items. From casual T-shirts to professional attire, there’s something for everyone:

  • Wide Selection: Explore a variety of new apparel choices designed to suit any style or occasion.
  • Online Convenience: Access our extended collection with ease online. Ready to browse? Scan the QR code below or visit Central Piedmont Bookstore Apparel to discover your next favorite piece.

🏷️ End of Year Clearance Sale!

As we transition between seasons, the Central Piedmont Bookstore is rolling out incredible savings:

  • Apparel Clearance: Swing by any of our Bookstore locations (Central, Cato, and Levine campuses) or shop online to snag select clothing items at discounted prices.
  • Technology Sale: Enjoy up to 75% off original prices on select technology items for a limited time. Don’t miss out on these unbeatable deals.

For more information on the clearance sale and to grab your must-have items, visit Central Piedmont Bookstore Clearance.