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.  

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:

• Collaborated with South African welding students from False Bay College on a two-day project 
• Built and donated a metal fire pit to the EDU Africa team house 
• Partnered with Hope Africa Collective and Living Hope Ministries 
• Extended protective window cages for a cosmetology training facility 
• Shared welding techniques and cultural perspectives with local youth 

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. 

The 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. 

During 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 

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. 

Central Piedmont Community College welcomes its newest cohort of student ambassadors for the 2025–26 academic year. 

Student ambassadors play a key role in creating a welcoming, informed, and connected campus community. 

What they do: 

• Lead campus tours for prospective students 
• Represent Central Piedmont at events and outreach activities 
• Share their personal student experiences with others 

This year’s team is ready to make an impact. We’re excited to see how their leadership, energy, and insight shape the student experience across all campuses. 

Welcome, ambassadors — we’re glad you’re here! 🙌 

Are you ready to make a difference on campus? The Student Government Association (SGA) is now accepting applications for Senator positions at each campus.

• Senators represent their home campus and advocate for meaningful change.
• This is your chance to shape student life and work directly with campus leaders.

Why serve as an SGA Senator?
✅ Represent the student voice on important issues
✅ Collaborate with leaders and fellow students
✅ Build leadership and communication skills
✅ Make a lasting impact on campus

🗓 Deadline: Fri, Aug. 29, 5 p.m.
🔗 Apply here
📧 Questions? Email Katherine Breitenfeld – katherine.breitenfeld@cpcc.edu

We look forward to reviewing your application!

What’s new: The Campus Activities Board (CAB), Central Campus, is now accepting applications for the 2025–26 team.

• CAB is a student-led organization that plans and hosts events to bring the campus community together.
• Open to students interested in event planning, marketing, leadership development, or simply getting more involved.

Why join CAB?
✅ Build leadership and teamwork skills
✅ Create fun, engaging campus events
✅ Connect with other passionate students
✅ Make a lasting impact on campus life

🗓 Deadline: Fri, Aug. 29, 5 p.m.
🔗 Apply here
📧 Questions? Email Katherine Breitenfeld – katherine.breitenfeld@cpcc.edu

💡 Don’t wait: Be part of the team that makes campus life happen.