πŸ“š Central Piedmont Campus Stores Announce Summer Hours

Students shopping at campus store

As the semester wraps up and the summer break approaches, Central Piedmont Campus Stores are adjusting their hours to accommodate students’ needs. Whether you’re stocking up on textbooks for summer classes or looking for some college swag, here’s what you need to know about the summer hours across all campuses:

  • πŸ“ Location: All Central Piedmont campuses
  • β˜€οΈ Summer Schedule:
    • May 10 – July 26
    • Monday to Thursday: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
    • Friday: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Plan your visits accordingly and make sure to check out the latest offerings at the Campus Stores while enjoying your summer break!

🌿 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!

Tuition Payment Plan

tuition payment planCentral Piedmont Community College provides a tuition payment plan designed to ease students’ financial burden by allowing them to pay tuition and fees over time. This plan is an excellent option for students looking to manage their education expenses more effectively.

Key Highlights:

  • Eligibility: Available for students with at least $200 in tuition and fees.
  • Benefits: No interest, finance charges, or credit checks. Enrolment ensures your courses will not be dropped.
  • Enrollment Fee: A non-refundable fee applies each semester.
  • Payment: Automatic monthly drafts without the need to make payments through MyCollege.

Enrollment Information:
You’ll need to provide payment details and contact information upon enrolling. Should any changes arise in your status, such as class adjustments or receiving financial aid, contact Central Piedmont promptly to update your plan.

Summer 2024 Schedule:

Register for Classes Between Sign Up By Down Payment (upon sign up) When Your Automatic Payments will be Drafted
April 5β€”May 6 Monday, May 6, 2024, at 10 p.m. 33% + $30Β enrollment fee June 5 and July 5
May 7β€”May 19 Sunday, May 19, 2024, at 10 p.m. 33% + $30Β enrollment fee June 5 and July 5
May 20β€”May 21 Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at 10 p.m. 33% + $30Β enrollment fee June 5 and July 5

Depending on your registration date, initial payments include a down payment plus an enrollment fee, with subsequent drafts.

For detailed information on the tuition payment plan, including how to enroll and the complete list of requirements, visitΒ Central Piedmont’s Tuition Payment Plan. This initiative is part of Central Piedmont’s commitment to making education accessible to all students by offering manageable payment solutions.

πŸš’ Stage to Safety: Rachael Helms’ Fire Protection Journey

πŸ“ Program: Fire Protection
πŸŽ“ Previous Education: B.A. in Exercise Science, UNC CharlotteRachael Helms headshot in fire suit and helmet

At 38, Rachael Helms has made a remarkable transition from a performing arts career to pursuing a Fire Protection degree at Central Piedmont. Her unique interest in the psychological aspects of disaster response drew her to our standout Fire and Social Behavior class, blending her passions for public safety and disaster psychology.

🀸 Background in Performing Arts:

  • Formerly a gymnast, cheerleader, and aerial artist, including circus arts.
  • Rachael’s diverse background has seamlessly translated into the physical prowess necessary for demanding emergency services.

πŸš’ From Arts to Emergency Services:

Rachael’s career pivot is not just a change in profession but a reinvention of her skill set to meet the rigorous demands of fire service. “If you need someone to scale a wall, suspend like Spider-Man for a high-angle rescue, or fit into small spaces, I’m your girl,” Rachael proudly claims.

πŸ›οΈ Academic and Career Ambitions:

  • Rachael values the real-world experience her professors bring, merging technical knowledge with critical social insights.
  • She aims to excel as a Fire Engineer, using her skills to impact and protect the community significantly.

✨ Rachael’s Message to Fellow Students:

“Set lofty goals, surround yourself with knowledgeable peers, and dive into learning experiences,” she advises. Rachael embodies the spirit of continuous learning and adaptability, turning personal strengths into professional excellence.

Rachael’s story is a testament to the diverse pathways at Central Piedmont and the profound personal and professional growth that comes with pursuing one’s passions.

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.

🌐 Students Simulate Global Governance at Model UN Conference

Four students represented Central Piedmont at the prestigious National Model United Nations Conference in New York, joining nearly 2,000 participants from over 100 countries. This event underscored the essence of global citizenship as our delegation represented Liechtenstein, engaging deeply in committees like the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) and General Assembly 3rd committees.

Students at Model UN conference

🌍 Global Debates and Resolutions:

  • Topics included sustainability in textile industries, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, children’s rights in conflict zones, and preventing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • Over 30 hours of intense deliberation and resolution drafting provided hands-on experience in global governance.

πŸ™οΈ Cultural Immersion in New York City:

  • The trip featured cultural explorations, including walks through Central Park, visits to Times Square, Broadway shows 🎭, diverse dining experiences, subway rides, and tours of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
  • Faculty Advisor Carla Cole and Club President Pragya Pandya even appeared live on the Today Show! πŸŽ₯

🀝 Skills and Reflections from Students:

  • Students reported enhanced skills in diplomacy, negotiation, and cultural appreciation.
  • Reflections highlighted personal growth in speaking, writing, and applying academic knowledge in economics, international relations, sociology, and political science.

We are immensely proud of our students’ achievements and their development into poised global citizens. A heartfelt thank you goes to Student Engagement, Student Government, Institutional Advancement, and Academic Affairs for their support, with special mentions to Biology faculty Lauren Jackson and Nickolas Davros and Central Piedmont librarians for aiding our students’ research on pivotal global issues. πŸ‘

πŸŽ‰πŸŽ“ Congrats Grads! Career Services is here to help you with your next steps

Two graduates in a sea of graduates, smiling at the camera

Attention, Central Piedmont graduates! Did you know that your journey with Career Services doesn’t end at graduation? As you embark on your career path, you can continue to benefit from the invaluable resources offered by Career Services.

πŸ’Ό Explore Career Opportunities:

🀝 Tap into Resources:

  • Utilize Handshake, a platform connecting you with job opportunities and career counselors. Maintain access to your Handshake account by updating your primary email to your personal email address. Learn more about retaining access using these guidelines.

πŸ’¬ Sharpen Your Interview Skills:

  • Dive into Big Interview to master interview techniques and conquer any existing fears. Create your alumni account using your personal email address and the login code: cpcc63.

πŸ“§ Need Assistance? For any inquiries or further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Career Services at career.services@cpcc.edu or 704-330-6551.

Your journey toward a fulfilling career doesn’t have to be navigated alone. Take advantage of these resources and let Career Services continue to support you in achieving your professional goals! πŸš€

🐾 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 

Student Story: Monisha Pirela

Monisha PirelaMonisha Pirela, a 34-year-old Central Piedmont Community College student from New Bern, NC, is pursuing an Associate in Arts degree. She chose Central Piedmont for its proximity, easing her commute and allowing her to balance school with other commitments. πŸ›£οΈ Monisha actively participates in campus life, serving on the Student Equity Council, NC Global Scholars of Distinction, and Phi Theta Kappa. She is also the recipient of several scholarships, including the 2023 Charlotte Pride Champion of Pride, Benjamin A. Gilman, Truist Honors, and Levine Scholarship.

Her academic focus combines architecture with political science, aiming to impact societal structures locally and globally. Monisha aspires to work for the U.S. State Department and consult on international sustainable housing projects. Central Piedmont has played an important role in her education, particularly through possibilities such as studying abroad, which Monisha did not think was an option for non-traditional community college students. “Thanks to the unwavering support of the Global Learning Department, I am grateful to have had the opportunity to study abroad at the University of Roehampton in London this year,” she said.

Additionally, Monisha is a recognized poet and spoken word artist πŸ—£οΈ and interns with the U.S. Department of State, enhancing her understanding of cultural diplomacy. Recently, she was named a semifinalist for the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation’s Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship and has been accepted to UNC Charlotte’s Honors Art+Architecture program. Monisha’s journey reflects her dedication to education and commitment to making a meaningful societal impact.πŸ†

Access Library Resources

libraryCentral Piedmont offers tailored library support services to enhance your academic journey, and they are available at all campus locations.

Here’s how you can get the help you need:

  • 🚢 Walk-in: Visit the service desks across all locations for quick queries.
  • πŸ’¬ Chat & Text: Immediate assistance via online chat or text for those on the go. Text 704-707-4960.
  • πŸ“§ Email: For non-urgent matters, email us your questions.
  • πŸ—“οΈ Make an appointment:
    • Research guidance
    • Citation clarifications
    • Digital tech help, including Brightspace assistance
  • Review the Library Policies for Student Appointment guidelines to be fully prepared.

Stay informed and make the most out of Central Piedmont’s comprehensive library services. πŸ“–

🌍 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’

🦈🌊 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!

Graduation Cake Sale

Dear Students,

The Central Piedmont Baking and Pastry Arts department is excited to offer graduation cakes and cupcakes for pre-order now through Wed., May 1, 2024, at midnight. Pick-ups will be just days before graduation, available only May 6-7 from 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. on Harris Campus.

cakes

You can order via the website. We encourage you to check out our social media and try us! Your support will provide us with enormous encouragement for our new venture.

cupcakes

You can support us by following us on social media :
Instagram: @Tasty.traditions.clt
Facebook: @Tasty traditions

Thank you for your time. We look forward to seeing you soon,

The Students of Tasty Traditions Bakehouse and Takeout

Final Week for Tasty Traditions Pre-Order – Asian Week

Dear Students,

The Central Piedmont Baking and Pastry Arts department is very excited to continue offering meal service and baked goods available on Harris Campus! Our business, called β€œTasty Traditions”, is not just about food, but about our students’ heritage and traditions being shown through our love of all things pastry and culinary. We will be offering daily pre-fixe meals available via pre-order Monday-Thursday. Then, an end-of-week bake sale each Thursday. Additionally, students and staff on the City View campus are eligible for meal delivery daily at 12:00pm, so you can receive your items without leaving the area during your busy schedules.

Tasty Traditions studentsCurrently, we’re offering our Asian menu, which you can order online. This will be our final week of pre-order sales, so don’t miss out! We encourage you to check out our social media and give us a try! Your support will provide us with enormous encouragement for our new venture. Limited a la carte meals are available daily at Harris Campus!

You can support us by following us on social media :
Instagram: @Tasty.traditions.clt
Facebook: @Tasty traditions

Thank you for your time. We look forward to seeing you soon,

The Students of Tasty Traditions Bakehouse and Takeout

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.

🌍 Join Us in the Fight Against World Hunger!

volunteers packing meals

Ready to make a difference and contribute to a global cause? The Mentoring/Coaching and Student Engagement offices at Central Piedmont are thrilled to present an extraordinary opportunity for you to participate in the Rise Against Hunger Meal Kit Assembly program!

🀝 About the Event:
Join hands with fellow students, faculty, and staff to assemble meal kits for communities in need. By participating, you’ll impact lives, forge connections, and create lasting memories.

🍽️ About Rise Against Hunger:
Rise Against Hunger is a global organization dedicated to eradicating hunger by providing nutritious meals worldwide. At Central Piedmont, we believe in community strength and giving back, so we’ve partnered with Rise Against Hunger for this impactful event on our campus.

πŸ“… Event Details:

  • Date: Thurs., April 25
  • Time: 1 p.m.
  • Location: Worrell Gym, Central Campus

πŸ’ͺ How to Join:
Ready to be part of this meaningful endeavor? Reserve your spot now before space runs out! Sign up through the link below and secure your place in this opportunity to make a positive change.

Sign up here for Central Piedmont Rise Against Hunger

🌟 Together, We Can Make a Difference!
Let’s unite to rise against hunger and build a world where everyone can access nutritious food. We can’t wait to see you at the Rise Against Hunger Meal Kit Assembly event!

πŸš€ Central Piedmont Collaborates with NC Science Festival for FUTURES Program

Central Piedmont has joined forces with the NC Science Festival organization to introduce FUTURES, a STEM outreach program aimed at encouraging underrepresented minorities to explore opportunities in STEM fields. FUTURES aims to inspire faculty, staff, students, and alumni to engage with their local community by sharing their personal journeys.

πŸ“… STEM Spotlight: April 4,
On April 4, Central Piedmont’s STEM students gathered to discuss their passion for STEM and the motivating factors driving their academic pursuits. Mrs. Marcella Yonkosky from the NC Science Festival Organization led training workshops to enhance engagement and participation.

🌟 Meet the Students:

group of students

Ashelaye Garritt, Amariah Robinson, Sierra Lawson, Jaismeen Kaur, Rosario Sanchez, Mitchell Boswell, Jennifer Lopez, Andrei Vince, Asiyah Ibrahim, Damian Tillman, Diego Mejia, and Brian Peacock

πŸ™Œ Acknowledgments:
Special recognition goes to Dr. Elisha McDonald and Mrs. Amber Griffin, Central Piedmont FUTURES Coordinators, for their dedication and support in making this program successful. πŸŽ‰

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€