March Campus Dining Specials and Spring Break Hours

Two students eating together

Campus Dining Hours During Spring Break (3/10- 3/14)

Beach and Borough Sandwich Shop at Central and Levine Campuses will be closed.
Catalyst Coffee at Cato, Harris, Harper, Levine & Merancas Campuses will be closed.
Cosmos Pizza and Hen & Steer Gastrogrill on Central Campus will be closed.

Catalyst Coffee at Central Campus will be open:

  • Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
  • Friday, 8:30 a.m.-Noon

Regular store hours will resume on Monday, March 17.

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🍀 March Campus Dining Specials:

Hen & Steer at Parr Center;  Beach & Borough 

  • Grilled Reuben Sandwich- $7.49

Catalyst Coffee Bar

  • 12 oz. Cinnamon Dolce Latte- $4.25

St Patrick’s Day Special – March 17
Catalyst Coffee Bar 

  • 12 oz. Matcha Mint Frappe- $5

Nominations Open for May 2025 Commencement Speakers

Graduation speaker behind the podium at May 2024 commencementCentral Piedmont’s Graduation Committee is now accepting nominations for graduates to serve as the student speakers at the May 2025 commencement. This is an amazing opportunity to share their stories and represent their fellow graduates at these special events.

One speaker will be selected for the 10 a.m. ceremony, and a second will speak at the 2 p.m. ceremony.

  • Nomination Deadline: March 17
  • Interviews and Selection: Concludes by April 11Eligibility
  • Open to students graduating in Spring 2025.
  • Must be registered and cleared by the graduation department.
  • Must have a 3.0 cumulative GPA and be passing their 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 convey to their fellow graduates.
  • The chosen speakers will receive guidance, rehearsal, and support to prepare their remarks for the big day.

Think you would be a great nominee? Fill out the student speaker nomination form.

For any questions, contact Katrina Johnson.

Are you curious about what a student speaker’s remarks might entail? Check out the remarks from May 2024 commencement speaker N’dianor Gbandala.

💰 Know Your Worth. Know Your Strategy. – Salary Negotiation Workshop!

A student dressed in an orange top with a black and white checkered blazer, with her arms folded, smiling at the cameraDid you know most employers expect candidates to negotiate? Whether you’re preparing for your first job or looking to level up your career, knowing how to negotiate your salary is a game-changer!

🔹 What You’ll Learn:

✔️ Understand your value in the job market
✔️ Develop strategies to negotiate salaries & benefits effectively
✔️ Overcome fears and confidently ask for the pay you deserve

📅 Event Details:

📍 Location: Virtual- Register to Attend
📅 Date: Tuesday, March 4
Time: 2–3 p.m.
👥 Led by: Conway Restaurant Group

Don’t leave money on the table—learn how to advocate for yourself and your future!

March Transfer Tuesdays

Three professionally dressed women, smiling for the cameraCheck out these Transfer Tuesday events in March.

March 4

  • Central Campus, Parr Center, First Floor Lobby, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
    • Appalachian State University
    • Cabarrus College of Health Sciences
    • Western Governors University
  • Cato Campus, Cato III, Lobby, 10 a.m.-1 p.m
    • UNC Greensboro
  • Levine Campus, Levine I, Main Lobby, 10 a.m.-1 p.m
    • Campbell University
    • UNC Wilmington
    • Winston-Salem State University
  • Merancas Campus, Merancas IV, 10 a.m.-1 p.m
    • Charleston Southern University
    • UNC Charlotte

March 18

  • Central Campus, Parr Center, First Floor Lobby, 10 a.m.-1 p.m
    • Cabarrus College of Health Sciences
    • Queens University of Charlotte
    • UNC Charlotte
  • Cato Campus, Cato III, Lobby, 10 a.m.-1 p.m
    • Strayer University
  • Levine Campus, Levine I, Main Lobby, 10 a.m.-1 p.m
    • Johnson and Wales University
    • Wingate University
  • Merancas Campus, Merancas IV, 10 a.m.-1 p.m
    • UNC Greensboro

March 25

  • Central Campus, Parr Center, First Floor Lobby, 10 a.m.-1 p.m
    • Cabarrus College of Health Sciences
    • Johnson and Wales University
    • Queens University of Charlotte
  • Levine Campus, Levine I, Main Lobby, 10 a.m.-1 p.m
    • East Carolina University
    • UNC Charlotte
    • Western Carolina University
    • Johnson and Wales University
  • Central Campus, Parr Center, First Floor Lobby, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
    • Winthrop University

📢 TRIO SSS Gives Back on National TRIO Day!

Four TRIO students

On Saturday, February 22, TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) staff and students celebrated National TRIO Day by volunteering at Crisis Assistance Ministry in Charlotte, NC. 💙✨

🙌 Making an Impact

The TRIO team helped organize the health and beauty sections of the donation store, ensuring local families had access to essential personal care items. This service project reflects TRIO’s commitment to supporting students and uplifting communities.

🎓 About TRIO SSS at Central Piedmont

For over 25 years, TRIO SSS has helped students stay in college and graduate by offering:
✔️ Tutoring & academic support 📚
✔️ Success coaching & mentoring 🎯
✔️ Transfer assistance to four-year universities 🎓
✔️ Financial literacy & scholarship guidance 💰
✔️ Cultural & social activities 🌍

🚀 Want to Join TRIO SSS?

If you’re an income-eligible, first-generation student or a student with a disability, TRIO SSS can provide personalized support to help you succeed!

📌 Learn more & apply here: TRIO SSS Webpage

👏 A huge thank you to our TRIO scholars and staff for their dedication to service, leadership, and academic success!

💆‍♂️ Student-Run Massage Clinic Now Accepting Appointments!

Massage student working on a client

Need a break from stress? Central Piedmont’s student-run massage clinic is now booking Spring appointments for faculty, staff, and students! 🌿✨

📅 Clinic Details:

📍 Location: Central Campus, Leon Levine Health Sciences Center, Room 301
🗓 Dates: March 18 – April 23
⏰ Daytime & evening sessions available

💰 Cost: $25 for a 60-minute full-body massage
📲 Payment: Card or Apple Pay only (no cash accepted)

💆 Massage Techniques Offered:

✔️ Swedish Massage – Uses firm but gentle pressure to promote relaxation & ease tension
✔️ Deep Tissue Massage – Targets chronic muscle tension with slow, deep strokes

🌟 Why Book a Session?

Support Central Piedmont’s Massage Therapy students as they gain hands-on experience under the supervision of licensed faculty
Enjoy a professional-quality massage at a discounted rate
Unwind & de-stress in a calming environment

🔗 Schedule your appointment now! Book here

Appointments are required & spots fill quickly—book yours today! 🧘

🌿 2025 Spring Plant Sale

People shopping a past plant sale

Get ready to refresh your garden at the 2025 Spring Plant Sale! 🌱🌼 Join us at Cato Campus to shop a variety of beautiful plants.

🗓️ Event Details:

📍 Location: Cato Campus, 3645 East W.T. Harris Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28215

📅 Friday, April 4 | ⏰ 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
📅 Saturday, April 5 | ⏰ 9 a.m. –Noon

💰 Accepted Payment Methods:

✔️ Cash
✔️ Credit Card
✔️ Personal Check

March World Affairs Council Luncheon Opportunities – Register Now!

Students eatingThe Center for Global Engagement is pleased to offering Central Piedmont students the opportunity to attend the World Affairs Council (WACC) Speaker Series Luncheons for March 2025.

There are a limited number of free tickets available for these luncheons. Registration through the Center for Global Engagement is required. After registering, the Center for Global Engagement will contact you via global.learning@cpcc.edu by the specified date to confirm if a seat is available for you. If selected, you must reply to confirm your attendance to secure your spot.

Upcoming March Luncheon Opportunities:

  • March 5 – WACC Global Sports Series: “Charlotte is a Soccer City”
    Speakers: Zoran Krneta, General Manager at Charlotte FC, and Dean Smith, Head Coach at Charlotte FC
    Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
  • More Info on this Series (Limited to 8 seats)

  • March 12 – International Women’s Day: “Women and Wealth”
    Keynote Speaker: Naima Judge, Managing Director and Market Investment Executive, Bank of America Private Bank
    Time: 4:30– 6:30 p.m.
  • More Info on this Series (Limited to 3 seats; notification by March 7)

  • March 13, 2025 – “Women, Power, and Progress: The History of Women’s Rights and the Ongoing Quest for Equality”
    Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
  • More Info on this Series (Limited to 8 seats; notification by March 7)

REGISTER FOR MARCH LUNCHEONS
Register once to be considered for any of the March luncheon opportunities. You will be contacted via email if a seat is available for you.

Don’t miss out on these exclusive opportunities to engage with global issues, leaders, and conversations—right here in Charlotte!

🌍 Global Learning Fest 2025 – Explore the World Virtually! ✈️

Poster for Global Learning Fest

No passport? No problem! 🌎 Join us for Global Learning Fest 2025, sponsored by the Study Abroad Association, and experience breathtaking destinations, rich history, and vibrant cultures—all from the comfort of your home or office!

📅 Date: Monday, February 24
🎟️ FREE for all Central Piedmont students & employees

🗺️ Event Lineup: Virtual Live Tours

📍 Tour of Santiago de Compostela – The End of the Camino de Santiago
🕙 10 a.m.
➡️ Explore the final destination of the legendary Camino de Santiago pilgrimage
➡️ Discover stunning architecture, history, and cultural significance

📍 Rome by Night – A Tour of Rome’s Iconic Fountains
🕛 Noon
➡️ Experience Rome’s most famous fountains illuminated at night
➡️ Highlights include Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona

📍 Live Walking Tour – Explore the Landscapes of La Fortuna, Costa Rica
🕐 1 p.m.
➡️ Discover Costa Rica’s lush tropical forests & vibrant wildlife
➡️ Spot toucans, parrots, hummingbirds, and exotic plants 🌿🦜

🔗 REGISTER HERE to receive your Zoom link for these unforgettable experiences!

Don’t miss this chance to explore the world—virtually! 🌎✨

🎓 Truist Honors Scholars Shine at National Conference in Dallas!

Scholar giving presentationCentral Piedmont’s Truist Honors Scholars recently showcased their presentation skills and passion for research at the National Association of African American Studies & Affiliates (NAAAS) Conference in Dallas, Texas! 🌟

📢 A Platform for Research & Expression

Founded in 1992, NAAAS provides a space for faculty and students to engage in scholarly research and celebrate the contributions of Africans, African Americans, Hispanics, Latinos/as, Chicanos/as, Mexicans, Native Americans, Indigenous Peoples, Asians, and Asian Americans.

📚 Diverse & Thought-Provoking PresentationsScholar presenting

Honors Scholars, both first-time and experienced presenters, tackled a wide range of topics, including:
🔹 Climate change 🌍
🔹 The psychology of mother-daughter relationships 👩‍👧
🔹 The decline of creativity 🎨
🔹 Language barriers & communication 🗣️
🔹 Addiction & mental health 🧠
🔹 Global debt & economic impact 💰
🔹 Power dynamics in the church ⛪
🔹 The science of melanin 🔬

🏆 Scholar Reflections: Growth, Confidence & Networking

Honors scholars received high praise for their exceptional presentation skills and in-depth research on topics they are not only passionate about, but also intend to shape their careers and futures around. Many scholars are not only planning to conduct studies on these subjects, but several are already considering pursuing advanced degrees after completing their undergraduate degrees. One scholar shared, “I was nervous and excited to present at the conference, but the honors program encourages me to embrace trying new things”. 

Through the program, scholars are developing the skills to navigate academic and professional environments where educators, administrators, and experts are eager to hear their research interests, opinions, and future aspirations in addition to affirming they belong in those spaces. Scholars are networking and sharing their knowledge with pride. A second scholar said, “This program has helped me build confidence. It has taught me how to network and because of this, I can go into a room and present with confidence”. Another scholar exclaimed, “The support, empowerment, and encouragement from the honors program lets me know I am capable of achieving my educational and professional goals. The Honors program pushes me to believe in myself!”

🚀 The Truist Honors Program: Create, Engage, Connect

The Truist Honors Program at Central Piedmont provides:
Intellectual & research opportunities 📚
Leadership & community engagement 🌎
Publication & technology skill development 💡
A strong, supportive scholar community 🤝

🎉 Applications Now Open for Fall 2025!

📌 Interested in joining this dynamic program? Apply now!
🔗 Learn more & apply here

Congratulations to our Honors Scholars for representing Central Piedmont with excellence! 🎉👏

Hospitality Students Network at Carmel Country Club

On Feb. 6, students from the hospitality management course HRM 230 Club & Resort Management visited Carmel Country Club in Charlotte.

We were treated to a wonderful visit and facility tour and had the opportunity to network with club leadership and discuss internship and employment opportunities.

In the photo on the far left is Diana Graham, an alumna from hospitality management. After visiting the club on a similar class trip in 2023, she became an intern and is currently a food and beverage manager at the club. She helped lead our tour.

Not pictured is alumna Anna Strickland, who visited with the 2024 class, became an intern, and is now employed there in food and beverage administration.

Pictured on the far right is Nicole Guy, assistant general manager of the club.

🎭 Experience Alvin Ailey’s Iconic Revelations – Free Dance Workshop at Central Piedmont!

Inside the Halton Theater

Blumenthal Performing Arts and Bank of America are bringing an incredible opportunity to Central Piedmont—and it’s FREE for students, faculty, and staff! 🎉

💃 Ailey Arts in Education: Revelations Celebration Workshop

📅 Date: Saturday, February 22
Time: 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
📍 Location: Dale F. Halton Theater
🎟 Spots Available: Only 75! Sign up now!

✨ What to Expect:

✅ Learn excerpts from Alvin Ailey’s Revelations—the world’s most famous modern dance work
✅ Be guided by professional Ailey Arts in Education teaching artists
✅ Enjoy a fun, intergenerational experience—bring your friends & family!
✅ No dance experience needed—just come ready to move & be inspired!

Don’t miss this chance to celebrate movement, culture, and community with an unforgettable dance experience! 💃🏾✨

Feeling sick? Visit the Atrium Health Community Virtual Primary Clinic

Medical practitioner looking in a patient's earIt’s germ season 🦠 If you aren’t feeling well, we can provide the care you need through Atrium Health Community Virtual Primary Clinic located on Central Piedmont’s Central Campus in the Leon Levine Health Sciences Center, room 101.

Here’s how it works:

🤒 Schedule an appointment by calling 1-844-563-5268.
📱 An Atrium Health medical assistant will meet you at Leon Levine Health Sciences building on Central Campus at the appointment time.
📖  You will be assessed and connected with a provider who can offer a diagnosis, treatment plan and prescriptions – all over video!

For more info, visit the Atrium Health website.

♻️ Cosmetology Goes Green

Cosmetology students pose on the stairs outside the City View Center building

Big news! Central Piedmont’s Cosmetology program is officially the first in the world to partner with Pivot Point and Green Circle Salons for The Cap Series Recovery Program—taking major steps toward a more sustainable beauty industry!

🌱 What This Means:

✔️ Reducing waste in one of the largest waste-producing industries
✔️ Recycling salon waste into new products like combs, clips, and even energy
✔️ Cutting down on mannequin waste with Pivot Point’s Wig Cap Mannequins, allowing students to swap out hair instead of using multiple mannequin heads

♻️ Our Green Goals:

🌍 Recycle hair clippings
💇‍♀️ Repurpose leftover hair color
🚯 Minimize single-use salon waste

We’re committed to reducing our carbon footprint and leading the way in sustainable cosmetology education! Stay tuned as we continue making eco-friendly strides in the beauty industry.

🎓 Become a 2025-2026 Central Piedmont Student Ambassador

Students outside, laughing

Looking for an exciting leadership opportunity that enhances your resume, communication skills, and professional network—while earning a scholarship? The Student Ambassadors Program is your chance to represent Central Piedmont and gain valuable experience!

🌟 Why Become a Student Ambassador?

✔️ Serve as a guide for prospective students
✔️ Represent Central Piedmont at community & campus events
✔️ Gain leadership & public speaking skills
✔️ Build connections with staff & professionals
✔️ Receive a scholarship each semester for your work!

📅 Attend an Interest Session!

Want to learn more? Meet current Student Ambassadors, get application tips, and find out about eligibility & commitment requirements at an upcoming interest session:

📍 Dates: February 25, 26, & 27
📌 Sign up now

Don’t miss this prestigious opportunity to grow as a leader and make an impact! Applications open February 28—start your journey today! 🚀

💡 Faculty Spotlight: Jennifer Perkins – Shaping the Future of Education

Jennifer Perkins headshot in black and white

From the moment Jennifer Perkins joined Central Piedmont, she knew: “This is where I wanted to be.” 🌟 Now, 20 years later, as the Program Chair for K-12 Education, her passion for nurturing future teachers is stronger than ever.

📚 Leading the Way in Teacher Education

Perkins has played a key role in launching Central Piedmont’s Teacher Prep and Residency programs, which are preparing North Carolina’s first licensed elementary school teachers through a community college pathway. Since fall 2023, the residency program has grown from 4 to 60 students, while the Teacher Prep program now serves 320 students!

💬 “When I see my residency students getting closer to licensure, it makes my heart swell with pride and joy. Knowing I’ve made a difference in their lives and the community is incredibly rewarding.”

🏆 Career Highlights & Achievements

🔹 Started as an elementary school teacher before transitioning to higher education
🔹 Earned multiple college awards, including:

  • Eyes on You Award (2017)
  • Mary W. & Wilton Parr Faculty Teaching Award (2022)
  • Tony & Beth Zeiss Award for Faculty (2024)

🌟 Beyond the Classroom

Outside of teaching, Perkins is a dedicated mom, fitness enthusiast, home cook, book club member, and volunteer. She’s also a diehard Philadelphia Eagles fan! 🦅

Through it all, her students remain at the center of her work. She collaborates with local schools, partners with fellow educators, and continually strives for excellence. 👏

🏁 Finish the Semester Strong 💪

Group of students sitting on the stairs inside the Parr CenterYou’ve put in so much hard work, and we’re proud of your progress! 🌟 As you power through the rest of the semester, remember—you’re not alone. Central Piedmont has resources to support your academic success, well-being, and personal needs.

💙 Wellness Center – Prioritize Your Well-Being

Feeling stressed? Need support? The Wellness Center offers a safe space and essential resources, including:
✔️ Counseling & stress management
✔️ Emergency grants, housing, & food assistance
✔️ Healthcare, dental, & vision services
✔️ Professional clothing closet & benefits counseling

📍 Open Monday – Friday, 8 AM – 6 PM | Complete the Wellness Screener to access services.

📚 Center for Academic Success and Excellence (CASE) – Free Academic Support

Struggling with a class? Need help with a big assignment? The Center for Academic Success and Excellence (CASE) provides free tutoring for math, science, and writing courses. Don’t wait until finals—get help now!

🌍 International Student Services – Specialized Support

The Kal Kardous International Student Services Center offers guidance on:
🌎 Immigration-related questions
📖 Campus resources & student involvement
📄 F-1 students: Always keep a physical copy of your I-20 form

🚀 Keep Going—You’ve Got This!

The finish line is in sight! Stay connected, use available resources, and take it one step at a time. We believe in you, and we’re here to help! 💙

Join the First Gen Student Leadership Academy 🎓

Three students posing with first-gen student signsAre you a first-generation college student looking to build leadership skills, connect with peers, and grow your confidence? The Office of Mentoring and Coaching is excited to launch the First Gen Student Leadership Academy—and YOU’RE invited!

💡 What’s the First Gen Student Leadership Academy?

✅ Open to all first-generation Central Piedmont students
✅ Develop leadership skills to help you succeed in college & beyond
✅ Connect with mentors & fellow first-gen students
✅ Gain confidence & career-building experience

📌 Interested? Register now!

💬 Have questions? Contact Courtney Lowery for more info!

Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to learn, lead, and make an impact! 🚀

💖 February is for Self-Love! 7 Ways to Care for Yourself This Month 💕

Black and white photo of a student speaking with a staff member in their office, across a deskThis month is the perfect time to celebrate love—not just for others, but for yourself too! 💡 Self-love means valuing your own well-being and happiness, and Counseling Services encourages you to take time to practice it.

🌿 7 Ways to Practice Self-Love:

  1. Prioritize your well-being. Eat well, sleep enough, and move your body! Need support? Students can access Counseling Services and have access to the many services offered by the Wellness Center.
  2. Be kind to yourself. Mistakes happen! Practice self-compassion and avoid harsh self-judgment.
  3. Avoid unhealthy comparisons. Social media can amplify stress—unplug when needed to focus on your journey.
  4. Set boundaries. It’s okay to say “no” and protect your energy.
  5. Forgive yourself. Let go of past regrets and use mindfulness to stay present.
  6. Choose supportive people. Surround yourself with loving, uplifting relationships and let go of those that don’t serve you.
  7. Shift your mindset. Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations and focus on growth.

🌟 Need more self-care tips? Check out this article for more ways to practice self-love!