Cosmetology in Spanish Program Launching Jan. 13; Information Session on Jan. 2

Cosmetology students working on clients in salon

This course prepares students for the Cosmetology Licensing Exam. It covers beginner-level general sciences and practices specific to infection control, sanitation, bacteriology, first aid, shampooing, draping, anatomy, disorders of the hair and scalp, and client consultation.

An information session for prospective students is scheduled from 10 a.m. – noon on Jan. 2 at City View Center.

Contact Catherine Marrow or call 704-330-4624 with questions.

🌟 Central Piedmont Students Shine at Circle of Change Leadership Conference in L.A.! 🌟

Students in front of a bannerFrom Nov. 21-24, the Office of Mentoring & Coaching took ten students and three staff members to Los Angeles for the Circle of Change Leadership Conference. This transformative experience empowered first-generation and culturally diverse students to build leadership skills for success at Central Piedmont and beyond.

  • Conference Highlights:
    • Inspiring keynote speakers and interactive panels with industry leaders.
    • Opportunities to network with peers and mentors nationwide.
    • Critical self-reflection exercises to foster personal growth.
    • Scholarships, prizes, and attendance badges earned by all participants.

Our students represented Central Piedmont with pride and returned with valuable skills and connections for their future success.

📅 Hear Their Stories:
Join us on Tue., Dec. 4, at 1:30 p.m. in PARR 2160 as students share their incredible experiences and insights from the conference.

Truist Honors Scholars Dive into Critical Conversations 📚✨

Central Piedmont’s Truist Honors Scholars are committed to growth—academically, personally, and socially. Recently, they participated in a transformative Common Read Engagement Experience, guided by the incredible Jamie Pollard-Smith. This initiative pushed scholars to challenge their perspectives, engage in critical discourse, and explore their place in the broader world. 🌍💡

Meet Jamie Pollard-Smith
Jamie is a full-time writing instructor at Central Piedmont, the 2022-2023 Larry M. Harding Teacher of the Year, and a passionate advocate for creative and critical thinking.

  • Education: Master of Arts from NYU
  • Roles: Coordinator for the Honors Scholar Common Read and liaison for the Charlotte Mecklenburg Public Library Community Read
  • Published Work: Contributor to Literary Mama, Scary Mommy, and Project We Forgot. Explore her writings at unbecoming.co. ✍️

I Never Thought of it That Way book coverThe Experience
This year’s Common Read centered on Monica Guzman’s I Never Thought of It That Way, sparking discussions on diverse perspectives and the integration of new ideas. Scholars reflected deeply, examined critical issues, and left with a broader understanding of the world.

Even if you missed this round, it’s not too late to dive in! 📖

Looking Ahead: Spring 2025 Common Read 📅
Get ready for our next selection: Portrait of a Thief by Grace D. Li, in collaboration with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Library. This book promises an exciting exploration of identity, culture, and action.Portrait of a Thief book cover

Get Involved
If you’re a Truist Honors Scholar, don’t miss your chance to join these engaging conversations and experiences.

📩 Learn More: Contact us at honors.program@cpcc.edu

Grow your mind. Challenge your ideas. Be part of the conversation! 🌟

Virtual Panel – Insights from Medical Office Administration Students 💼✨

Three professionally dressed women, smiling for the cameraCurious about what a career in Medical Office Administration looks like? Join us for an inspiring virtual panel with current and former students from the Medical Office Administration Program! Get a behind-the-scenes look at the skills, insights, and career paths this program opens up.

Why Join?

  • Learn from Real Experiences: Hear firsthand how students and alumni are applying their knowledge in healthcare settings or how they’re planning to use their skills post-graduation.
  • Ask Questions: This is a unique opportunity to interact, ask questions, and gain valuable advice from those who have been in your shoes.

How to Join

  • Click on the Teams link to jump right into the event.
  • Bonus: Complete our registration form to receive a reminder email with the event link for easy access!

Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and envision your future in Medical Office Administration.

🌍 Virtual Exchange with EDU Africa: Focus on Good Health & Well-Being

Visual representation of goal 3 on a bright green background. Reads: good health and well being with animated heartbeat and vital signs in white

The Center for Global Engagement and Office of Mentoring & Coaching are offering monthly virtual through May 2025. Each session will explore a UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), focusing on a different African country.

The next exchange on Wed., Nov. 6, 12:30 – 2 p.m., will focus on SDG 3: Good Health & Well-Being in Tanzania. Hear from Margaret Kenyi, founder of Step by Step Learning Centre, followed by peer discussions with African college students.

👉 Register here or contact global.learning@cpcc.edu with questions.

🌍 Summer 2025 Study Abroad & Travel Programs – Details

Collage of international cityscapes with a photo of students travelling abroad in the center

Central Piedmont’s Center for Global Engagement is offering exciting Summer 2025 programs, including:

  • Florence, Italy: “Music, History, and Cultural Immersion” (Music Appreciation or CCE)
    Two weeks in May exploring Italian music, culture, and history with visits to iconic sites like The Uffizi and the Duomo. 🎶
  • Japan: “Japanese Warlords in Modern Media” (Humanities 120 or CCE)
    Two weeks in May exploring Japanese culture, historic sites like Kyoto temples, and modern media connections to warlords. 🎌
  • UK & Romania: “Dracula: History & Literature in the footsteps of Bram Stoker” (Humanities – Myth & Human Culture and World Civilizations II or CCE)
    10-day program following in the footsteps of Dracula, exploring the history and folklore of vampires in England and Romania. 🧛‍♂️

All applications for 2025 are officially open, deadline to apply December 10, 2025. 

These programs are open to students 18 and older, employees, and community members. Some scholarships are available for students. Please email the Center for Global Engagement with questions or call 704-330-6167.

For more details and to apply, visit the Center for Global Engagement website!

📚 Library Resources at Central Piedmont

  • A student receives help from a staff member in the libraryStudy Rooms: Need a space for solo or group study? Reserve study rooms at any of the six campuses.
  • Makerspaces: Get creative at campus Makerspaces, available for free to students, faculty, and staff. 🎨🛠️
  • Quiet Spaces: Looking for a peaceful spot to read or recharge? The library has you covered.

For current library hours, visit Library Hours.

 

Central Piedmont’s Honors Program Living the Theme: Create~Engage~Connect 🎓

Group of graduates in cap and gowns, smiling at the cameraCentral Piedmont’s Honors Program is all about building meaningful connections! Through honors-to-honors (H2H) partnerships, we’re creating new pathways with 4-year colleges and universities and strengthening existing relationships to help students thrive after transferring.

🌟 Exciting News!
Our most recent H2H partnership is with Queen’s University Honors Program! 🎉 One of Central Piedmont’s very own Truist Honors Scholars is already reaping the benefits of this exciting collaboration.

What Does the H2H Partnership Offer?

  • Transfer advantages to help honors scholars seamlessly transition to partner institutions
  • Opportunities to engage in both formal and informal events with students from partner schools
  • Tailored support to make the transition from Central Piedmont’s Honors Program into the partner institution’s honors program as smooth as possible

Each partnership is unique, but they all share a common goal: to help you succeed beyond Central Piedmont!

NCAIE Global Leadership and International Engagement Student Conference 🌍

Exterior shot of the Parr Center

We are excited to announce that Central Piedmont will host the NCAIE Global Leadership and International Engagement Student Conference! This conference is for any North Carolina college student passionate about working across cultures and developing a global mindset.

Conference Theme: “Building Bridges in Times of Uncertainty”

📅 Date: Saturday, October 26
📍 Location: Central Campus. Parr Center

Conference Highlights:

  • Network with fellow students and establish new relationships 🤝
  • Attend sessions led by North Carolina students focused on global leadership and exchange
  • Participate in a service-learning project to create “reverse swag bags” of school supplies for immigrant children served by International House of Charlotte ✏️

Central Piedmont students Áine Grady and Mae Wadsworth are leaders on the conference’s state-wide Student Leadership Team, representing our school with pride!

🔗 Register by October 11! (Registration includes lunch and dinner)

💼 Need help with registration fees? Students can request scholarship assistance for free registration by contacting The Center for Global Engagement at global.learning@cpcc.edu or call 704-330-6167.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to connect with students across North Carolina and engage in global leadership! 🌟

Join the Virtual Exchange Experience with EDU Africa! 🌍

Illustrated image of a dove perched on a gavel with "16: peace, justice and strong institutions" above and "to promote peaceful inclusive societies, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels" below.The Center for Global Engagement and the Office of Mentoring & Coaching are excited to offer monthly virtual exchange experiences for Central Piedmont students from October 2024 – May 2025. Each month, we’ll explore one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within the context of a country in Africa, featuring insights from local community leaders and student discussions.

October Virtual Exchange:

📅 Date: Thursday, October 3
Time: 12:30 – 2:00 p.m.
🌍 Focus: Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice, & Strong Institutions in Rwanda

You’ll hear from Marc Gwamaka of Aegis Trust, who leads national youth leadership programs in Rwanda and is the founder of Walk to Remember, a global education initiative to fight genocide. Following the presentation, students will participate in peer discussions with students from African colleges.

🔗 Register here to receive the link to the virtual exchange.

📧 Questions? Contact the Center for Global Engagement at global.learning@cpcc.edu or call 704-330-6167.

Don’t miss this powerful opportunity to learn and connect with students from around the world! 🌍

World Affairs Council Speaker Series Luncheon with Central Piedmont 🌍

Two students at a networking luncheon

Are you interested in attending the World Affairs Council Speaker Series Luncheon? This unique opportunity allows students to hear from professional and political leaders on current global topics while networking at a professional luncheon.

Please note, there are limited seats available for each event, so be sure to request a seat only if you can fully commit to attending. Professional dress is required for the luncheon.

🔗 Sign up to request a seat

📧 You’ll be contacted by the Center for Global Engagement by the dates listed below to confirm your seat. Parking and light rail info will be provided in the confirmation email. Students are responsible for their own transportation.


Upcoming Opportunity:

📅 October 10th: Transatlantic Relations – A Fireside Chat with EU Diplomats
📧 Confirmation Date: You will receive an email from global.learning@cpcc.edu in October to confirm if a seat is available. Be sure to reply to confirm your attendance.

Event Details:

  • Check-In & Pre-Lunch Networking: 11:15 a.m. – noon
  • Lunch & Presentation: Noon – 1:30 p.m.
  • Location: Charlotte City Club

This is an excellent opportunity to gain insights on global affairs while networking in a professional setting. We hope to see you there! 🌍

Architectural Technology Students Shine in Design Thinking Exhibit! 🏛️

A group of architecture students poses for the cameraStudents from the Architectural Technology program recently had the incredible opportunity to showcase their architectural sketches and design drawings in a collaborative exhibit curated by local architect William Philemon, titled Design Thinking. This exciting exhibit was on display for four weeks at the Hodges Taylor Gallery in Southend, Charlotte.

Architecture sketches on displayThe exhibit featured the creative and innovative works of local architects, alongside architecture students from Central Piedmont and UNC Charlotte. It was a true celebration of architectural synergy and design creativity! 🎨✨

The exhibit concluded with a closing reception, where our very own AIAS (American Institute of Architecture Students) organization was on hand to welcome guests, participate in discussions, and serve attendees.

👏 A huge congratulations to all the students involved for their inspiring contributions!

Beyond the Barriers: September is Deaf Awareness Month 💙

Two students communicate using ASLDid you know that September is Deaf Awareness Month? Let’s come together to learn, support, and celebrate the Deaf community! Disabilities and Access Services and Student Engagement are excited to bring you the Beyond Barriers event, and we’d love for you to join us. 🙌

This two-day event will help you explore the Deaf community and learn how to become a stronger ally. Here’s what’s happening:

Student Organization Meet & Greet

  • 📅 Wed., Sept. 18
  • ⏰ Noon – 2 p.m.
  • 📍 Central Campus, Parr Center, Rooms 0060 and 0070

Experience Life with Deafness: How Accommodations Make a Difference

  • 📅 Thursday, September 19
  • ⏰ 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • 📍 Central Campus, Parr Center, Rooms 0060 and 0070

Let’s take this opportunity to go beyond barriers and create a more inclusive community! 💙

Central Piedmont Makes IT Training More Affordable 💻

Student on a Mac Book in front of a yellow wall in Parr Center libraryCentral Piedmont is proud to announce that its Continuing Education Information Technology (IT) program is now more affordable than ever. This initiative opens doors for individuals to gain in-demand IT skills, supporting the economic growth of the Charlotte area.

Why It Matters:

  • Job Growth: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts rapid growth in IT jobs, with 377,500 annual openings from 2022-2032.
  • High Earnings: Median annual wages for IT roles reached $104,420 in May 2023, far above the average for all occupations.

Program Highlights:

  • Affordable Pricing: Central Piedmont’s reduced rates make IT training accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial background.
  • Comprehensive Courses: From basic computer skills to advanced networking and cybersecurity, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re just starting or advancing your career.
  • Expert Instructors: Learn from industry professionals who bring valuable real-world insights to the classroom.
  • Flexible Learning: Choose from in-person, live online, or self-paced classes that fit your schedule.

Learn More:

For more information about the Continuing Education IT program, contact the IT Continuing Education department at 704-330-4223.

Empower your future with affordable IT training at Central Piedmont! 💻

Workforce Recruitment Program: Student Registration Now Open!

A photo of the Ray Mathis Plaza during the fall, with trees donning yellow leavesAre you a college student or recent graduate with a disability interested in a federal internship or job? The Workforce Recruitment Program (WRP) is here to help!

Key Dates:

  • Student Registration Opens: Mon., Aug. 26
  • In-Person Info Session: Thu., Aug. 29, Noon – 1 p.m.
  • Virtual Info Session: Tue., Sept. 10,  Noon – 1 p.m.
    • Link will be emailed to registered participants

What is WRP?

WRP is a joint initiative by the U.S. Department of Labor and U.S. Department of Defense, connecting college students and recent graduates with disabilities to federal and select private-sector employers eager to showcase their abilities in the workplace.

📝 Learn More:

Boost Your Career with Central Piedmont’s STEM Tank 🚀

 

Student presents at STEM Tank season 5

Ready to launch your career in STEM? Season 6 of our STEM Tank is just around the corner, and it’s packed with opportunities to build your skills, make an impact, and connect with mentors.

Program goals:

  • Increase the number of students in STEM pathways, especially students of color and women
  • Address workforce demand in high-growth fields
  • Prepare students for economically-mobile, family-sustaining careers

Why join?

  • 🔬 Research opportunities: Dive into real-world problems and develop innovative solutions.
  • 💼 Professional development workshops: Enhance your critical thinking, communication, and presentation skills.
  • 🏆 Compete and win: Present your research proposals to tackle campus or community challenges and vie for top honors, judged by faculty and alumni.

Key Dates:

  • Program dates: Oct. 3 – Nov. 15
  • Competition: Nov. 15, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Application Deadline: Wed., Sept. 20 (or until spots are filled)

How to Apply:

Need more info?

Don’t miss out on this chance to elevate your STEM journey at Central Piedmont!

A Summer of STEM Success at Central Piedmont! 🚀

Two students presenting their postersThis summer, 70 Central Piedmont students completed the Honeywell STEM Prep Program! 🌟 Designed for 10th-12th graders, this program provided a hands-on, project-based experience to gear up for college-level STEM courses.

🌐 What They Did:

  • Diving into STEM: Students tackled math and a second class tailored to their interests—whether in science, technology, or engineering. 🧪💻🔧
  • Prepping for College: The program was all about getting these future stars ready for the challenges of college-level STEM. 🎯

🎓 What’s Next:

  • Full-Time Enrollment: Many of our 12th graders will be joining Central Piedmont full-time this fall! 📚
  • Dual Enrollment: Several 10th and 11th graders are planning to dual enroll, continuing their STEM journey with us. 🔗

🌟 Special Recognition:

  • Honeywell Scholars: Nicholas Wind-McJetters and Amariah Robinson represented Central Piedmont at UNC Charlotte’s Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program. Their poster presentations on July 26 were a huge hit! 🎉🎓

🙌 Thank You, Team!

A huge shoutout to our fantastic instructors—Dr. Carl Arrington, Samantha Carter, Tony Stanford, Sydney Baltimore, and Lauren Burgess—who made this summer unforgettable! 👏 And a big thanks to our amazing peer mentors—Merit Chukwukere, Mariam Idris, Yao Djaka, Kebron Mamo, Ashe Garrett, Joseph Posa-Mejia, and our coordinator Nekeitrius Davis. You all rock! 🌟

Central Piedmont Earns 10-Year Reaffirmation of Accreditation 🎓🌟

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) has reaffirmed the accreditation of Central Piedmont! 🎉 This 10-year reaffirmation follows thorough off-site and on-site reviews of the college and its academic programs.

What This Means:

  • Central Piedmont and its academic programs remain fully accredited 🌟
  • Official notice of reaffirmation received on Jul 1 📅
  • Next reaffirmation process will be in 2033-34 🗓️

Drone aerial photography, Merancas Campus, fall and autumn colors

Compliance: To maintain accreditation, an institution must comply with the standards in the Principles of Accreditation: Foundations for Quality Enhancement and with the policies and procedures of the commission.

Accreditation Significance:

  1. 🎯 Mission: The institution has a mission appropriate to higher education.
  2. 💪 Resources: It has the resources, programs, and services to accomplish and sustain that mission.
  3. 🎓 Educational Objectives: It maintains clear educational objectives consistent with its mission and appropriate to the degrees it offers, ensuring success in achieving its stated objectives.

Central Piedmont’s reaffirmation is a testament to its commitment to excellence in education! 🎓📚

Central Piedmont Launches High School Instructor Certificate Program 🎓📝

Teaching Central Piedmont studentsCentral Piedmont is excited to announce a new opportunity for bachelor’s degree graduates who aspire to teach part-time in North Carolina high schools.

Program Highlights:

  • Certificate Program: The High School Adjunct Instructor certificate program focuses on developing the general pedagogy and competencies needed to teach in public high schools.
  • Coursework Includes:
    • Classroom management and pedagogy
    • Effective instructional methods
    • Foundations of education
    • Educational technology
    • And more!
  • Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Application: Apply through the College Foundation of North Carolina website

Contact Information: For more details, reach out to Jennifer Perkins, Program Chair of K-12 Education.

📞 “As a provider of K-12 teacher preparation programs, Central Piedmont can impact the current teaching shortage in the Charlotte region and across North Carolina,” Perkins said. “The high school adjunct instructor certificate program is a direct path to prepare those interested in teaching part-time by providing the coursework and support to be successful in a high school classroom.”

Join us in shaping the future of education! 🌟📚