Category Archives: Uncategorized

Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2024

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Students working on desktop computers in a classroom

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month and this week’s topic is Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Deepfakes.   

With advancements in AI technology comes the emergence of deepfakes.   

What are deepfakes? Deepfakes are AI-generated images, videos, or audio that convincingly imitate real people, often altering their appearance, speech, or actions. Using machine learning algorithms, deepfakes can superimpose a person’s face onto another body or synthesize their voice to create fake, yet seemingly authentic, content.   

Here are some tips to remember while interacting with AI and recognizing deepfakes. 

  1.  Be skeptical. Deepfake technology can create highly convincing fake videos and audio clips that may appear to come from friends, public figures, or trusted sources. 
  2. Understand AI-generated content. Familiarize yourself with the existence of AI tools that can generate text, images, and even videos. Awareness is key to identifying fake content. 
  3. Looks for signs of manipulation. Deepfakes often have subtle flaws, such as unnatural facial expressions, strange blinking patterns, or mismatched audio and lip movements. 
  4. Be cautious with personal content and enable strong privacy settings. Review and tighten the privacy settings on your social media accounts to limit who can view and use your photos or videos. Be selective about the platforms and apps that have access to your data. 
  5. Be careful with AI Chatbots. AI chatbots can be useful but be cautious when sharing personal or sensitive information with them. Malicious actors may use chatbots to phish for data or trick you into revealing sensitive details. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Service Desk via the client portal.  

🎶 Volunteers Needed for the Artists Music Guild Heritage Awards!

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Artists Music Guild logoThe Artists Music Guild Heritage Awards are happening on Sat., Oct. 26 at the Halton Theater on Central Campus. We need volunteers to help make the event a success! Roles include:

  • Culinary Volunteers (12-15 needed): Servers and runners needed; no experience required
  • Production Volunteers (10-15 needed): Assist with camera, sound, and stage
  • Artist Handlers (15 needed): Escort artists backstage and return them to their seats
  • Seat Fillers (30 needed): Fill empty seats in the audience

Volunteers should wear a Central Piedmont T-shirt, black pants, and black shoes.

To sign up for available shifts, please fill out this form.

✍️ Submit Your Work to The Hammer Magazine!

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A student writing

Central Piedmont’s student arts and literature magazine, The Hammer, is now accepting submissions for short fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction! 📖🎨

Submission Details:

  • Who Can Submit: Only Central Piedmont students, using their student email.
  • How to Submit: Email thehammer@cpcc.edu with your work attached as a Word file or in the email body. Specify the genre (fiction, poetry, or non-fiction).
  • Word Count: No strict limit, but shorter pieces are preferred.
  • Original Work: Submissions must be your own and in English; AI-generated work is not accepted.

Submit from Oct. 7 to Mar. 31 and showcase your creative talent!

💜 October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month 💜

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Domestic Violence Awareness Month logo with dark purple ribbon on light purple backgroundDid you know that 24 people per minute in the U.S. are victims of rape, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner? That adds up to more than 12 million women and men every year.

Key Statistics:

  • 1 in 6 college women (16%) has been sexually abused in a dating relationship.
  • 1 in 5 college women has been verbally abused by a dating partner.
  • 1 in 4 women (24.3%) and 1 in 7 men (13.8%) aged 18 and older in the U.S. have experienced severe physical violence by an intimate partner.
  • Over 54% of trans and non-binary people have experienced Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) in their lifetime.

If you or someone you know is affected by Domestic Violence or Intimate Partner Violence, please reach out for help.

📞 National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233

💬 Counseling Services at Central Piedmont are here for mental and emotional support.

  • Offering in-person and virtual counseling at all campuses.
  • Call today: 704-330-6420
  • Email: counseling@cpcc.edu

You’re not alone. Help is available. 💜

World Affairs Council Speaker Series Luncheon with Central Piedmont 🌍

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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! 🌍

🎨 Dove Gallery Reception: Featuring Artists of the Catawba Nation 🖼️

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Woven basketJoin us for an evening of art, culture, and community as we celebrate the talented artists of the Catawba Nation!

🗓️ Date: Fri., Sept. 27
⏰ Time: 6 – 8 p.m.
📍 Location: Dove Gallery, Parr Center

Enjoy light refreshments and a night filled with good fun! Don’t miss this special opportunity to experience incredible art and connect with the community.

We can’t wait to see you there! 🌟

September 25 On-Campus Recruiting Activities

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Automotive student holding a wrench, leaning over a car with the hood upMark your calendars for September 25 and get ready for two exciting on-campus recruiting events! Whether you’re looking for a career in hospitality or transportation, these events are a great chance to meet potential employers and land your next job or internship!

🗓️ Event Details:

🔹 Work-It Wednesdays
⏰ Time: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
📍 Location: Central Campus, Parr Center, First Floor
Event Details

Attending Employers:

🔹 Transportation Meet & Greet
⏰ Time: 11 a.m. – Noon; 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
📍 Location: Merancas Campus, Transportation Systems Building, Room 112
Event Details

Interested in the Diesel and Automotive industries? Meet employers from the Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology & Collision Repair and Refinishing Technology programs and explore opportunities in the Charlotte Metro area!

⚠️ Note: Employers attending may change. Be sure to check the event detail links for updates!

📅 Full Event List: Visit the Career Services website to stay up to date on all upcoming recruiting events!

🗳️ Stressed About the Election?

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Student doing yoga

You’re not alone—let’s talk about it.

Election season can feel like a rollercoaster 🎢. From heated discussions to constant news updates, it’s easy to experience election stress. That feeling of anxiety and tension leading up to and during elections is more common than you might think! It can show up as headaches, trouble sleeping, feeling irritable, or even just feeling tense all the time. 😓

What causes election stress?

  • 📱 Media overload: News, podcasts, social media—it’s a lot!
  • 👥 Disagreements with family & friends: Political debates can get intense.
  • 🔀 Polarization: The gap between opposing sides can make it harder to talk.
  • 🤔 Uncertainty: Feeling like things are out of your control.

How to manage election stress:

  • 🗳️ Make a plan to vote – Knowing when and where you’ll vote helps ease the stress.
  • ⏳ Limit your media consumption – Take breaks from the constant news cycle.
  • ⚖️ Find balanced news sources – Avoid extremes that can heighten stress.
  • 💆‍♀️ Practice self-care – Rest, exercise, or do something fun to recharge.
  • 🚶‍♂️ Set boundaries – It’s okay to step away from stressful conversations.
  • 🌟 Turn energy into action – Focus on making a positive impact on the issues that matter.
  • ✅ Focus on what you can control – Channel your energy toward what you can change.

Elections come and go, but your mental health is always a priority! 💙 If you need someone to talk to, Counseling Services is here to help.

Reach out to Counseling Services for support.

🎓 Employee Spotlight: Eugene Attoube ’16

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Black and white headshot of Eugene Attoube

📢 Meet Eugene Attoube
Academic Advisor | Central Piedmont Alumnus

🤝 “The day starts with students and ends with students.”
This simple yet powerful advice shapes Eugene Attoube’s approach every day in his role as an academic advisor.

🌍 Eugene’s journey with Central Piedmont began in 2014 as a part-time Foreign Language Lab Facilitator. After earning his Associate in Arts degree, he transferred to UNC Charlotte, where he completed a double major in International Studies and Political Science.

💼 Why Central Piedmont?
For Eugene, it’s all about the community. “Central Piedmont is my home,” he shares. His passion for helping students succeed is matched by his dedication to mastering his role and expanding his skills.

✨ Making an Impact
Eugene takes special pride in working with students learning English, cherishing the moments when they return to thank him for his support. He aims to make a lasting impact on his students, just as the faculty and staff did for him.

“Central Piedmont is a leading force in education,” Eugene says. “With a wide array of programs, there’s something for everyone.”

Elizabeth Stabler-Tarver: Ready for the Real World

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Elizabeth Stabler-Tarver headshot🌟 Elizabeth Stabler-Tarver is an incoming 2024 East Mecklenburg High graduate and dual-enrollment student at Central Piedmont. She is pursuing an Associate in Arts and plans to transfer to UNC Chapel Hill to major in Psychology, focusing on music therapy.

Current Employment:

  • 🎨 Works as a face painter at Bank of America Stadium, primarily on weekends.

Community Service:

  • 🌍 Participates in the Youth Lead Advisory Board and CMYC Student Advisory Council, focusing on civic leadership and community improvement.

Educational and Career Goals:

  • 🎓 Aims to become a therapist/psychologist specializing in mental health for youth.
  • 💡 A scholarship will help her take essential courses and collaborate with mental health professionals.

High School Achievements:

  • 🏅 Top 3% of her graduating class.
  • 📜 Received multiple accolades, including AP Scholar awards and recognition as The Charlotte Post Top Senior Runner-up.
  • 🏫 Active in National Honor Society, Student Government, and major school events.

Future Plans:

  • 🔄 Guaranteed transfer to UNC Chapel Hill through the C-STEP Program.

Elizabeth’s dedication and passion for mental health make her a standout student at Central Piedmont and a promising future therapist.

🔗 Learn more about Elizabeth’s journey and aspirations via her feature in the Charlotte Post.

Complimentary Dishes from the Mobile Learning Kitchen! 🚚🍽️

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Students working the mobile learning kitchenCentral Piedmont’s Mobile Learning Kitchen and line cooking class will be serving up complimentary dishes to students and employees from Jun. 25–Jul. 18 on Central Campus, in front of the Parr Center.

🕒 Food Truck Schedule: The food truck will be open from 4:30–6:30 p.m., or until all samples are passed out, on the following days:

  • Tue., Jun. 25
  • Thu., Jun. 27
  • Tue., Jul. 2
  • Wed., Jul. 3
  • Tue., Jul. 9
  • Thu., Jul. 11
  • Tue., Jul. 16
  • Thu., Jul. 18

💬 Recent Reviews:

  • “I recently had the opportunity to have a great meal from the food truck! They were very accommodating to my vegetarian diet, as well. I would love to experience more meals.”
  • “The food tonight was amazing. The meal was extremely well-seasoned and prepared with care. The service was high quality. The students appeared more like professionals with vast experience.”
  • “Breakfast tacos were the bomb, 10/10. The only change would be to add cheese but it was delicious regardless. Customer service 10/10. Portions are a really good size. Gravy and biscuits were 10/10, the best meal yet. All the flavors were balanced and harmonious. The biscuits were extra soft and fluffy, and reminded me of the cheddar bay ones from Red Lobster. Loved it.”

Don’t miss out on this delicious opportunity to enjoy free meals and support your fellow students! 🍔🌮🍝

Virtual Information Session: Paying for College with the Next NC Scholarship 💰

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Next NC logo

Join us for an informative virtual session on financial aid! We’ll cover essential details about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Next NC Scholarship. This session is designed to help students and their families understand the application processes, eligibility criteria, and benefits of these financial aid opportunities. Learn how to maximize your financial aid options and make college more affordable.

Session Details:

  • 🗓 Date & Time:
    • June 6 at 10 a.m.
    • June 11 at 2 p.m.
    • June 20 at 11 a.m.
  • 📍 Location: Online; registration is required
    • The Microsoft Teams meeting link will be in your confirmation email

Don’t miss this opportunity to make your college education more affordable! 💸

Final Reminder: FAFSA Night at Cato Campus 🎓

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FAFSA Federal Student Aid logoJoin us for FAFSA Night and unlock your financial aid potential. Get hands-on help completing your FAFSA, ensuring you don’t miss out on any financial support.

Event Details:

  • 🗓 Date: Wed., May 29 from 6 to 8 p.m.
  • 📍 Location: Cato Campus, Building I, Rooms 220/221
  • 🤝 Inclusivity: Spanish-speaking staff available
  • 🚀 Secure Your Spot: Registration is required

Why Attend?

  • Personalized assistance with FAFSA applications
  • Access to federal, state, and institutional financial aid, including grants, loans, work-study, and scholarships
  • Ensure you meet the Aug. 15 priority deadline for the 2024-2025 academic year

Don’t miss this opportunity to get the financial support you need! 💰

Spring 2024 Dean’s List and President’s List Now Available 🌟

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Students learning in a classroomCentral Piedmont is proud to celebrate all the hardworking students who made it to the Dean’s List and President’s List for the Spring 2024 semester.

Dean’s List honorees achieved a 3.50 or greater GPA, with no Incomplete (“I”) or Withdraw (“W”) grades, and completed at least 12 hours of credit in courses numbered 100 through 299.

President’s List honorees achieved a 4.00 GPA, with no Incomplete (“I”) or Withdraw (“W”) grades, and completed at least 12 hours of credit in courses numbered 100 through 299.

🎉 Celebrate and Share: Join us in celebrating the accomplishments of your classmates! Congratulate your peers on their dedication and hard work. 🎓🌟

🎉 Central Piedmont Celebrates $1 Million Gift from Coca-Cola Consolidated 🎉

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What’s happening: Central Piedmont Student working as an EMT with a stethoscope around her neckhas been gifted $1 million by Coca-Cola Consolidated. This generous donation will fund scholarships specifically for U.S. military veterans and first responders, while also supporting various academic and training programs at the college.

Why it matters: This contribution will significantly enhance the college’s ability to support the educational and transitional needs of veterans and first responders. Central Piedmont is dedicated to providing these students with specialized resources to help them succeed in civilian and academic settings.

By the numbers:

  • Programs Supported: Basic Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice, Emergency Medicine, Fire Protection, and Public Safety Administration.
  • New Degrees: Launched a Public Safety Administration associate degree in August 2023.
  • Community Impact: The gift supports a student population that often faces unique challenges transitioning from service to civilian life.

Deepening Partnerships:

  • Coca-Cola Consolidated’s Role: As the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the U.S., headquartered in Charlotte, the company has a long-standing commitment to community support and workforce development.
  • Apprenticeship Program: The Coca-Cola Consolidated Apprenticeship Program at Central Piedmont provides paid apprenticeships in high-demand areas such as manufacturing and logistics, promoting practical, hands-on learning.

What they’re saying:

  • Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, President of Central Piedmont: “We are profoundly grateful for Coca-Cola Consolidated’s support. This gift will relieve financial burdens for deserving students who serve our community, fostering a significant, positive impact for future generations.” 🌟
  • Morgan Everett, Vice Chair, Coca-Cola Consolidated: “Our purpose to serve others includes creating pathways to opportunity. We are proud to support the success of veterans and first responders entering the workforce.” 🛠️

The big picture: This donation not only underscores the community and educational commitment of Coca-Cola Consolidated but also highlights the critical role of corporate partnerships in advancing public education and workforce readiness.

🎉🎓 Congrats Grads! Career Services is here to help you with your next steps

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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.

💼 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.

💬 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.

📧 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! 🚀

🐾 Pawsitive Finals: Pet Therapy

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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

  • 📅 Date: Tues., Apr. 30th, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
  • 📍 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. 

Central Piedmont Students Participate in Leadership Conference

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A dozen Central Piedmont students participated in the North Carolina Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference from April 11-13 and brought home a handful of awards. 

 The students participated in 20 competitive events and eight leadership seminars over the three days. Four students finished in first place in their respective events – Akhilshyam Bollepally, Jose Esquit, Erick Garcia, and Daniel Ramirez. 

 Overall, eight students qualified to attend the National Leadership Conference, and one student, Genchen Hang, qualified in three different events. In addition to Hang and the first-place finishers, other students who qualified include Bella Calderon, Sam Faught, and Johnny Smith.Group of students at conference

 Joining that group as participants at the state conference were Caleb Carr, Tomo Kaneko, Stephane Monichon, and Lina Rodriguez. 

 The National Leadership Conference takes place June 24-27 in Orlando. 

 FBLA helps students: 

  • Develop competent business leadership skills. 
  • Strengthen the confidence of students in themselves and their work. 
  • Create more interest in and understanding of American business enterprise. 
  • Develop character, prepare for useful citizenship, and foster patriotism. 
  • Facilitate the transition from school to work. 

 Central Piedmont students in FBLA have the opportunity to meet with local business leaders in areas of finance and business as part of the program, as well as work closely with Career Services. In addition to the competitions, FBLA students also participate in community service projects. 

Audition for Central Piedmont Theatre: “Lost Girl”

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Central Piedmont Theatre announces auditions for its upcoming spring 2023 production of Lost Girl by Kimberly Belfower, directed by Carly McMinn.

AUDITION INFORMATION: All auditionees should prepare a 90-second contemporary monologue. Callbacks will consist of readings of sides from the script.

AUDITION DATE & TIME
March 14 & 16 (Callbacks) from 7- 9 p.m. in Overcash 300 at Central Campus.
March 15, from 4- 6 p.m. in the Georgia Tucker Fine Arts Hall on Central Piedmont’s Levine Campus

PERFORMANCE DATES & TIMES
April 21- 22 and April 27- 29 at 7:30 p.m.
April 23 and 30 at 2:30 p.m.

PLAY SYNOPSIS: Long after returning from Neverland, Wendy decides that she must find Peter in order to reclaim her kiss and move on with her life. Along the way, she meets other girls who went to Neverland and learns she is not alone. A coming-of-age exploration of first love and lasting loss, Lost Girl continues the story of J.M. Barrie’s beloved character – the girl who had to grow up.
ROLES AVAILABLE (6f, 6m)

Review the full details for available roles.