Category Archives: Student Services

Spring & summer 2026 scholarships available — apply now

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Need financial assistance for the spring and summer semesters? Apply by Sunday, Feb. 15, to be considered for an award. 

Eligibility requirements:

  • Minimum 2.0 GPA 
  • Must have an active Central Piedmont login 

By submitting your application, you will be considered for any scholarship opportunities you qualify for based on your program of study and academic performance. We encourage all students to apply. 

Featured scholarships 

  • Garinger Education Foundation Scholarship — For Garinger High School graduates (within the last two years) 
  • Robert L. & Eleanor Gossett Endowed Scholarship — For graduating students in the physical therapist assistant program 
  • Marvin B. Rorie Marketing Endowed Scholarship — For students pursuing a degree in business administration with a marketing specialty 
  • Mitchell Davis Endowed Scholarship — For students pursuing a degree in civil engineering technology with a geomatics technology focus 

Dream big. Apply early. Scholarships make it possible!

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Itala Flores, student

Itala Flores turned her passion for art into a career — from creating her own pottery technique to showcasing sustainable fashion at Paris Fashion Week. Her journey at Central Piedmont was supported by scholarships like: 

  • Levine Scholarship 
  • Kappy McClenaghan Scholarship 
  • Board of Trustees Endowed Scholarship 

“Even at the last minute, Central Piedmont has always helped me with a scholarship, and that was a blessing,” Itala says. 

Spring scholarships are now open! Start your journey by applying today. 

Learn more and apply online! 

Stay healthy without leaving campus: Atrium Health Virtual Care available to students

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Feeling under the weather but don’t want to miss class or work? Atrium Health’s Community Virtual Primary Care is here to help without you needing to leave campus.

Who’s eligible?

  • All Central Piedmont students, faculty, staff, and their household members can access this service.

How it works

  • Connect with a healthcare provider via secure video in a private on-campus location.
  • A trained assistant helps with digital diagnostic tools.
  • Receive diagnosis, treatment, and prescriptions if needed—all without disrupting your day.

Cost

  • Copays and deductibles may apply based on insurance.
  • If you’re uninsured, financial help may be available.

Benefits

  • Convenient, high-quality care that fits your schedule.
  • Just as effective as in-person visits, with minimal interruption.
  • Visit summary forwarded to your primary care physician for seamless continuity.

Conditions treated

  • Flu and fever
  • Coughs and colds
  • Sore throat
  • Sinus issues
  • Headaches
  • And many more

Central Piedmont salon & spa presents: “Let It Glow!” winter beauty specials

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Warm up your self-care routine this winter with affordable beauty and relaxation services performed by talented student stylists under the supervision of licensed professionals. Visit for seasonal specials that keep you glowing all season long.

Seasonal winter beauty tips and services

  • Hydrating hair revival
    Deep moisture conditioning treatment with a relaxing scalp massage.
    Add peppermint or lavender essential oil for an extra boost of relaxation.
    Tip: Cold air can dry out hair—treat it every 2–3 weeks for healthy shine.
  • Cozy cut & style
    Get a fresh haircut and blowout with thermal protection.
  • Winter radiance facial
    Gentle exfoliation, hydrating mask, and facial massage.
    Includes a warm towel and hand treatment.
    Tip: Switch to a cream cleanser during winter months to protect your skin barrier.
  • Snowflake manicure & pedicure
    Warm soak, exfoliation, and rich moisturizer.
    Add a paraffin dip for extra hydration.
  • Natural hair care hydration boost
    Steam hydration treatment and moisturizing mask.
    Includes protective style consultation.
    Tip: Sleep with a satin bonnet or pillowcase to lock in moisture.

Seasonal packages

  • Central Piedmont student special – $20
    Shampoo, blowout, and deep conditioner (with a valid student ID)
  • The winter glow bundle – $45
    Hydrating hair treatment + mini facial + hand scrub
  • Frost-free hands & feet – $25
    Moisturizing manicure + paraffin pedicure combo

Why visit our salon?

  • Affordable services in a real-world training environment
  • Supervised by licensed professionals
  • Supports the education of future beauty experts
  • High-quality products and exceptional care

First-Gen Leadership Academy empowers students to lead with purpose

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first-gen students

 Are you the first in your family to pursue a college degree? Ready to lead with confidence and unstoppable determination? If this sounds like a good fit, fill out this interest form! 

The First-Gen Leadership Academy is designed to help you grow, connect, and activate the leader within. 

What you’ll gain: 

  • Empowering workshops and leadership training 
  • Mentorship from professionals who believe in your success 
  • A supportive community of driven first-gen students 
  • Tools to navigate college with clarity and confidence 
  • Opportunities to elevate your voice and create impact 

This is more than a program—it’s a launchpad for your leadership journey.  

STEM Tank Season 8 grand finale set for Nov. 21

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stem student

Students, faculty, and staff are invited to the final showdown of STEM Tank Season 8—a celebration of innovation, teamwork, and discovery. 

Event details: 

  • Date: Fri., Nov. 21, 2025 
  • Time: 11 a.m. 
  • Location: Central Campus, North Classroom, Room 1123 

What to expect: 

  • Final pitches from the brightest student innovators 
  • Groundbreaking STEM projects developed over six weeks 
  • A chance to cheer on your peers and celebrate creative problem-solving 

Who will be crowned the STEM Tank Champion this season? Don’t miss the excitement and inspiration at this culminating event. 

Honors scholars shine at statewide conference

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Central Piedmont’s Honors Program is celebrating a weekend of outstanding student achievement at the North Carolina Honors Association (NCHA) Conference. The event brought together top honors students from across the state—and Central Piedmont scholars stood out.
Award-winning presentations:
  • Charlotte Ennis earned 1st place for Best Oral Presentation
  • Shun Let secured 2nd place for her outstanding presentation
  • Itala Flores, a Truist Honors Scholar alumna, tied for 2nd place
These students exemplified the heart of honors scholarship—exploring topics they care deeply about and delivering presentations that offered both insight and practical application.
Why it matters:
  • Honors students are mastering public speaking, navigating complex processes, and building connections with peers statewide
  • The program focuses on developing excellence through engagement and empowerment
  • Achievements like these reflect the strength and impact of the college’s Honors Program
Central Piedmont is proud of its scholars and their commitment to leadership, learning, and academic excellence.

Welding students return from transformative study abroad in South Africa

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welding students in south africa

The Center for Global Engagement is proud to celebrate the return of Central Piedmont’s welding cohort from their fall break study abroad experience in Cape Town, South Africa. 

Led by welding instructor Nathan Godsey, the group spent months preparing for this immersive learning opportunity, blending technical training with cultural exchange. 

Who went:

  • Nathan Godsey, welding instructor 
  • Serena Johnson, director of disability services 
  • Five welding students: Carter Blackstone, Xander Case, Christopher Gomez, Carla Strickland, and Jamel Ware 

What they did:

Why it matters:

  • Students demonstrated leadership, perseverance, and initiative 
  • The trip reinforced the value of technical education in creating opportunity 
  • Participants gained global perspectives to enrich their future careers 
  • The cohort set a powerful example for future skilled trades students 

A moment to remember:
During the visit, Serena Johnson offered her expertise to support Hope Africa’s students with learning differences. In just one afternoon, she and Nathan Godsey made a meaningful impact on a local student—an inspiring example of collaboration in action. 

The Center for Global Engagement commends the welding cohort for their outstanding representation abroad. Their journey highlights the college’s commitment to global learning and the transformative power of hands-on education. 

SGA open session invites campus community to connect and share

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student in sga shirt smilingThe Student Government Association (SGA) is hosting an open session for students, staff, and faculty to come together, share ideas, ask questions, and engage in meaningful dialogue about campus life. 

Why it matters: 
This is a chance to learn more about SGA initiatives, voice your thoughts, and connect with campus leaders in a welcoming, inclusive space. 

Details: 

  • Who should attend: Students, staff, and faculty — all members of the campus community are encouraged to participate 
  • When: Mon., Oct. 27, from 3–4 p.m. 
  • Where: Central Campus, Parr Center 0070/0060, or attend virtually

Whether you’re curious, passionate, or just want to listen in, your presence matters. 

CASA Club supports breast cancer warriors during fall break

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students at MORE THAN PINK 5k walk for breast cancer awarenessDuring fall break, members of the Cosmetic Arts & Science Association (CASA Club) at Central Piedmont Community College dedicated their time to supporting breast cancer survivors and fighters through two meaningful events. 

Slumber party spa night at the Pink House  

CASA Club volunteers hosted a slumber party–style spa night at the Carolina Breast Friends Pink House to create a relaxing and joyful experience for women who are currently battling or have survived breast cancer. 

  • Volunteers arrived in pajamas to set a cozy, welcoming tone 
  • Activities included face masks, mini manicures, DIY scalp oils, and hand scrubs 
  • The event focused on building community and offering comfort through self-care 

Susan G. Komen MORE THAN PINK 5K 

CASA Club also participated in the Susan G. Komen MORE THAN PINK 5K, a walk to raise awareness and celebrate breast cancer warriors. 

  • Members created beaded bracelets to hand out during the event 
  • A handmade encouragement poster was displayed to uplift participants 
  • The walk served as a powerful reminder of solidarity and support 

Why it matters: 

  • CASA Club continues to show how student-led initiatives can make a lasting impact 
  • These events offered emotional support, connection, and celebration for those affected by breast cancer 

Introduction to Brightspace and Microsoft Office for students

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Get hands-on with Brightspace before your first class
Nervous about your first online course? Central Piedmont Community College has you covered.
The Central Piedmont library is hosting a virtual instructional session to help students get comfortable using Brightspace, the college’s learning management system.
  • Sat., Oct. 18, 2025
  • 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
  • Online (hosted by Central Campus Library)
  • Pre-registration is required
What you’ll learn:
  • Navigate Brightspace
  • Opt in for email notifications
  • Download and use the Brightspace Pulse app
  • Take quizzes
  • Upload assignments
  • Post in discussions
  • Complete the Enrollment Verification Activity (EVA)
Who should attend:
  • New students at Central Piedmont
  • English as a Foreign Language students
  • Anyone who feels unsure about using technology
For extra support, explore the Brightspace Guide.
Need help with Microsoft Office?
Students can also access free Microsoft 365 training through Brightspace.
To enroll:
  • Log in to Brightspace
  • Click Discover in the top menu
  • Search for Student M365 Transition Training
  • Self-enroll in the course
Additional resources:
The college is here to support your success—let’s get started together.

Explore what’s new at the library

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bookshelves in libraryStudents can now browse the latest additions to the Central Piedmont Community College library collection. Whether you’re looking for something to support your studies or just want a good read, the library has something fresh for everyone. 

What’s available 

  • Newly added books across a range of subjects 
  • Educational and documentary videos 
  • Electronic resources, including journals and databases 

Where to find it 

  • Visit the library’s “New Titles” page  
  • Available at all campus library locations, including Central Campus 

Why it matters 

  • Stay current with academic resources 
  • Discover new perspectives and ideas 
  • Find materials that support your coursework and interests 

Check back regularly—new titles are added often. 

Find your space at the library 

Whether you need a quiet corner to study or a creative space to build something new, Central Piedmont Community College libraries have you covered. 

What’s available: 

  • Study rooms
    Reserve a study room for individual or group work at any of the six campuses. 
  • Makerspaces 
    Each campus library features a Makerspace—free for faculty, staff, and students. Visit your campus library to explore tools and materials, and check out what’s available at the Central Campus Library Makerspace. 
  • Quiet spaces 
    Looking for a peaceful place to read, rest, or recharge? There’s a space for you in the library. 

Stay informed with October’s Hot Topics 

Need a quick way to stay up to date with current events? Central Piedmont Community College students can access monthly research overviews through NewsBank’s Hot Topics — a helpful resource for busy schedules and current-events-based assignments. 

What’s covered: 

  • Key global issues 
  • Business and economics 
  • Crime and politics 
  • Science and health 
  • Sports and the arts 

Why it matters: 

  • Supports class assignments and research 
  • Offers reliable, curated content 
  • Helps students stay informed on trending topics 

Where to find it: 

Check back each month for new updates.

 

Apply now for the Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship

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fall foliage and cato campusThe Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship is a prestigious, highly selective award for the nation’s top community college students. It provides generous financial support for two to three years to help Scholars complete their bachelor’s degrees at a four-year institution. The application deadline is January 2026. 

What’s included: 

  • Funding for a portion of tuition, living expenses, books, and fees 
  • Personalized college planning and ongoing advising 
  • Access to a supportive community of fellow Scholars 

How to apply: 

  • Use the Common App for transfer — a streamlined way to apply to multiple college programs with one application 
  • Be prepared to submit contact information for faculty and staff who can write strong letters of recommendation 

Who should apply: 

  • Students transferring from community colleges or four-year colleges 
  • Military students, veterans, and their families 
  • Adults beginning or returning to higher education 
  • High-achieving students committed to academics — honors program participation is not required 

This could be you! One of Central Piedmont’s Truist Honors Scholars won in 2024, and another student was named a finalist in 2025. This opportunity is within reach. 

Nominate a student speaker for December commencement

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confetti falling at commencement

Central Piedmont Community College’s Commencement Committee is now accepting nominations for a student speaker at the December commencement ceremony. 

About the opportunity: 

  • One student will be selected to speak at the 10 a.m. ceremony 
  • This is a chance to share their story and represent fellow graduates 
  • The selected speaker will receive guidance, rehearsal, and support to prepare their remarks 

Key dates: 

  • Nomination deadline: Thu., Oct. 23 by 5 p.m. 
  • Interviews and selection: Concludes by Tues., Nov. 11

Eligibility requirements: 

  • Must be graduating in fall 2025 
  • Must be registered and cleared by the graduation department 
  • Must have a 3.0 cumulative GPA and be passing current coursework 

Next steps: 

Students selected for an interview must prepare a brief written reflection (speech) on their college experience and the message they would like to share with fellow graduates. 

For questions, contact Katrina Johnson. 

 

October events from Counseling Services

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Counseling Services is hosting a variety of events throughout October to support student wellness and raise awareness about domestic violence. Whether you’re looking to de-stress, learn something new, or connect with others, there’s something for everyone.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month information tables
Stop by to sign a pledge to end domestic violence and pick up a purple ribbon to show your support.
  • Harris 1 Lobby — all month
  • Harper IV Lobby — all month
  • Merancas IV Lobby and Transport Systems Building — all month
Relax & recharge
Take a break from mid-terms and finals with hands-on activities designed to help you unwind.
  • Harris — Wed., Oct. 1, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Harris 1 Lobby
  • Merancas — Tue., Oct. 7, 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Merancas IV Room 100
Mindful Music Lounge
Explore calming music spaces featuring Jazz, Lo-Fi/Chillhop, and Native/World sounds. Contribute to a community “Feel Good” playlist and learn how intentional listening supports emotional wellness.
  • Central — Tue., Oct. 7, 11 a.m.–1 p.m., Parr Center Huddle Rooms A–C
  • Cato — Thu., Oct. 30, 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Annable 024
Mocktails & more
Learn about standard drink sizes, alcohol abuse prevention, and enjoy a mocktail for participating.
  • Harper — Mon., Oct. 20, 11 a.m.–1 p.m., Harper IV Room 102
  • Harris — Wed., Oct. 22, 11 a.m.–1 p.m., Harris 1 Lobby
De-stress table
Drop by for stress-relief activities including stress balls, jewelry making, coloring, snacks, and more.
  • Levine — Wed., Oct. 22, 12 p.m.–2 p.m., Levine 1 Lobby

Résumé review event: Quick feedback from real employers

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Tue., Oct. 7, 1–3 p.m. 
Central Campus, Parr Center, Room 0060 

Students are invited to drop in for a résumé review session hosted by Career Services and the Office of Mentoring and Coaching. Whether you’re building your first résumé or refining an existing one, this is a relaxed, no-pressure opportunity to get helpful feedback directly from employers. 

What to expect: 

  • Bring a printed copy of your résumé 
  • Get personalized tips to strengthen your résumé 
  • Ask questions about formatting, content, and presentation 
  • Meet employers from a variety of industries, including:  
    • Healthcare 
    • Hospitality 
    • Horticulture 
    • Construction management 
    • Trades 
    • Education 
    • Customer service 
    • Business 
    • Transportation 

This event is open to all students and designed to help you feel more confident about your résumé before applying for jobs or internships. 

SGA Open Session: Your voice, your campus

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5 students together at a table

What’s happening: 
The Student Government Association (SGA) is hosting an open session to connect with students, staff, and faculty. It’s your chance to be heard and stay informed on what’s happening across campus. 

  • Mon., Sept. 29 | 4 – 5 p.m.
    Central Campus, Parr Center, Rooms 1000, 1010, and 1050
    Open to all students, staff, and faculty 

Why it matters: 
This inclusive forum gives you the opportunity to: 

  • Hear updates from SGA leadership 
  • Ask questions and get answers directly from student reps 
  • Share your thoughts, feedback, and ideas on campus life

Snacks and refreshments will be provided! 

Don’t miss this chance to speak up and shape your campus experience. 

⚡ Duke Energy Foundation boosts scholarship support for Central Piedmont students 

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three electrical line workers in front of duke energy truck

What’s new: 
The Duke Energy Foundation has increased its scholarship contributions by $25,000 to Central Piedmont in honor of former executive Julie Janson’s retirement. 

Why it matters: 
Janson chose Central Piedmont as the recipient of this gift to support: 

  • Future line workers and energy professionals 
  • Students pursuing careers in energy and skilled trades 
  • Local workforce development in the Charlotte region 

What they’re saying: 
Janson emphasized the importance of investing in the next generation, calling Central Piedmont a key partner in preparing students for high-demand careers in the energy sector. 

The bottom line: 
This expanded scholarship funding will help more Central Piedmont students gain skills, earn credentials, and power the region’s energy future. 

FAFSA: What to know and why it matters

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closeup of a mini graduation cap on cash

What’s happening: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is opening soon—and it’s your first step to getting financial help for college. 

Why it matters: 
Without a submitted FAFSA, you could miss out on: 

  • Grants (free money you don’t repay) 
  • Scholarships 
  • Work-study jobs 
  • Low-interest federal loans 

Reminder: Even if you think you won’t qualify, fill it out anyway—many students are surprised by what they’re eligible for. 

The big picture: FAFSA isn’t just a one-time form. You must renew it every year to continue receiving aid and to be considered for new opportunities. 

Where to go: Need help? Visit the Financial Aid Office on Central Campus, or check with your campus student services team for FAFSA workshops. 

Key dates: 
The 2026–27 FAFSA opens on Oct.1. File early to get the best aid package.