🎨 Now Showing at the Dove Gallery: Shadow Landscapes by Lilliya Zalevskaya

Art by Lilliya ZalevskayaStop by the Dove Gallery to experience Shadow Landscapes, the latest exhibit by artist Lilliya Zalevskaya!

🖼 About the Exhibit:

🌿 Print-based & collaged artwork on paper and fabric
Tapestries that blend fantasy & reality, reimagining personal memories
🌍 Themes of identity, belonging, memory, trauma, and displacement

Zalevskaya’s work challenges perceptions of the past while inviting viewers to reflect on the politics of memory through subtle, evocative imagery.

📍 Location: Central Campus, Dove Gallery
📅 Now on view—don’t miss it!

Come explore this powerful and thought-provoking collection!

📢 Share Your Journey – Be Our Next Student Success Story!

Headshot of Jasmin Cobb, holding a camera

Do you have a story to tell? 🎤✨ Central Piedmont is looking for students to feature in our Student Success Stories, and we want to hear from YOU!

💡 Why Share Your Story?

Inspire others with your journey
Get featured on our website & social media
Participate in a professional photoshoot 📸
Take part in a filmed interview 🎬

No matter your program—arts, sciences, technical vocationsALL voices are welcome!

🔗: Submit Your Story Here

📩 Questions? Contact Kaitlin Rous, Social Media Specialist, at kaitlin.rous@cpcc.edu.

Your journey matters—share it with the world! 🌍💙

Connecting Students to Jobs: March Career Services Events

Students talking to employers at a hiring eventLooking for a job? Check Out These Recruiting Opportunities

Note: Employers are subject to change. Please click the event link and register for the most up-to-date information. Events are open to all students. Learn how to prepare to meet with employers. 

Medical Assisting and CNA Meet & Greet
Tue., Mar. 18, 1:30-3 p.m. | Levine Campus, Building 3, Tucker Lobby

Work-It Wednesdays 
Wed., Mar. 19, 10 a.m.-1 pm. | Central Campus, Parr Center, First Floor

Transportation Systems Meet & Greet
Wed., Mar. 19, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Merancas Campus, Transportation Systems Rm 112

Culinary and Hospitality Meet & Greet
Mon., Mar. 24, 1:30-3:30 p.m. | Central Campus, Van Every Culinary Arts Center

Work-It Wednesdays
Wed., Mar. 26, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. | Central Campus, Parr Center, First Floor

Nursing and Networking Meet & Greet
Thu., Mar. 27, 1-4 p.m. | Central Campus, Health Careers Building, 4th Floor

April Preview! 

Teacher Preparation and Education Panel + Meet & Greet
Wed., Apr. 2, 3:30-5:30 p.m. | Central Campus, Parr Center 1000

Career Connect – Resume Drop-in and Networking + Professional Headshots
Thu., Apr. 3, 1-4 p.m. | Central Campus, Parr Center 0070

2025 Fall Break Study Abroad Programs in South Africa, Ireland Available

Students standing in front of a Nelson Mandela muralWe are excited to officially launch and announce the Fall Break 2025 Study Abroad Programs in Cape Town, South Africa, and Ireland.

South Africa

 

This innovative program combines Culinary Arts and Welding to offer students a hands-on, immersive experience exploring the region’s rich history, culture, and sustainability efforts.

Program Highlights

  • Cape Malay Cooking Workshop – Learn to prepare traditional dishes in Bo-Kaap with a mother-daughter culinary duo.
  • Sustainable Welding at SAIW – Discover how welding practices contribute to global sustainability and industry advancements.
  • Robben Island with Lionel Davis – Engage in an interactive discussion with the former freedom fighter and political prisoner.
  • !Khwa ttu San Heritage Centre – Experience guided insights into the history and contemporary life of the San people.
  • Urban Sustainable Farming – Participate in workshops at Oranjezicht City Farm, focusing on food ecosystems.
  • 18 Gangster Museum – Gain a deeper understanding of social challenges and meet local welders and caterers.
  • Welding and culinary students will participate in academic engagement experiences with students at False Bay College in Cape Town.

Program Details

Travel Dates: Oct. 11-18
Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Eligibility: Open to Welding, Culinary, Baking & Pastry Arts, and Hospitality, Non-Destructive Technology students with a GPA of 2.0 or higher (18+ or with a guardian). This program will be open to curriculum students in these programs only.

Course Options:

  • Culinary: CUL 287/CUL 287A (Cultural Experience) or CUL 230/CUL 230A (Global Cuisine)
  • Welding: WLD 143 (Metallurgy)

This unique opportunity blends culture, history, and hands-on learning, offering students an unforgettable global experience while developing valuable professional skills.

Ireland

 

This immersive program offers students the opportunity to explore Ireland’s legal history, criminal justice system, and cultural heritage, all while engaging with breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities like Dublin and Derry.

Program Highlights

  • Legal System Immersion – Visit courts and police stations in Donegal to explore Ireland’s legal processes.
  • Kilmainham Gaol Tour – Step inside the historic Dublin prison that once housed revolutionaries of the 1916 Easter Rising.
  • Celtic Art & Music – Participate in workshops and experience traditional Irish music and cuisine.
  • Arranmore Island – Hike and learn about the island’s political and cultural significance in maritime history.
  • Lectures by Experts – Attend sessions on topics such as civil rights struggles in the USA and Ireland, ancient Irish law, and famine’s legal and political effects.

Program Details

Travel Dates: Oct. 10-18
Location: Ireland (Dublin, Derry, Donegal & more)
Eligibility: Open to students 18+ with a GPA of 2.0 or higher.Course Options:

  • Criminal Justice (CJC 111 – Intro to Criminal Justice) (open to all AS and AA students)
  • Advanced CJ Courses (for Criminal Justice students who have taken CJC 111):
    • CJC 223 (Organized Crime)
    • CJC 212 (Ethics & Community Relations)
  • CCE Course (Non-credit option available)

This once-in-a-lifetime program blends history, law, and culture, giving students an invaluable global perspective on criminal justice while exploring one of the most historically rich countries in the world.

🌿 Get Your Hands Dirty! Join the Gardening Workshop on March 26

three people standing surrounding a green plantOrganized by NC Global Scholar student Sabina Darjee with support from the Center for Global Engagement, this hands-on Gardening Workshop is a unique opportunity to explore the impact of native and invasive plant species—and even pot your own plant to take home! 🌱

📅 Event Details:

📍 Location: Central Campus, Zeiss 1100
🗓 Date: Wednesday, March 26
Time: Noon – 2 p.m.
👥 Open to: Students interested in environmental awareness and studying abroad

🌎 What to Expect:

🌱 Presentation & Speech – Learn how native and invasive species affect the environment, with insights from Yellowstone National Park 🌿
🪴 Potting Activity – Decorate and plant your own native species to take home 🎨
🚶‍♂️ Parr Center Walking Tour – See how sustainability is integrated into our campus ♻️
🗣 Discussion on Environmental Advocacy – Talk about the role of native species in preserving ecosystems 🌏

✨ Why Attend?

✔️ Gain insight into sustainability & environmental advocacy
✔️ Learn how small actions can have a big impact
✔️ Enjoy a hands-on activity while connecting with like-minded students
✔️ Snacks & drinks provided! 🍎🥤

🔗 Register now!

Don’t miss this chance to learn, create, and make a difference—see you there! 🌿💚

Marjorie Carihua Vela Selected as Semifinalist for Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship

picture behind Weiss building showing open sidewalkCentral Piedmont’s Truist Honors Program is celebrating Marjorie Carihua Vela, the program’s second scholar to be selected as a semifinalist for the Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship.

Carihua Vela is a Truist Honors Scholar majoring in biology. She is set to graduate in spring 2025 with an associate in science on the Biological Sciences Pathway.

Carihua Vela plans to become a doctor to “motivate patients, create bonds with them, and provide the best services for their health.”

Additionally, Carihua Vela feels leadership is important “not only for bosses but for members of a community to learn how to collaborate with others.”

The Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship is a highly selective scholarship for the nation’s top community college students seeking to complete their bachelor’s degrees at four-year colleges or universities. Each Cooke Scholar has access to generous financial support for two to three years, college planning support, ongoing advising, and the opportunity to connect with the thriving community of fellow Scholars.

Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship recipients will be announced in early May.

If you are interested in future Jack Kent Cooke scholarship opportunities, please reach out to Central Piedmont’s Jack Kent Cooke campus representative, Deninne Pritchett, PhD, ACUE.

Transportation and Public Safety Open House

A student works on a large engine.Are you still undecided on a program to study? Join us Wednesday, March 26, at our Transportation and Public Safety Open House to explore our programs. You’ll have an opportunity to:

  • discover our transportation and public safety academic programs
  • meet inspiring faculty
  • immerse yourself in real-world experiences such as learning how to drive in a police car simulator or exploring how electric vehicles work
  • tour the classrooms and labs on Merancas Campus
  • learn more about scholarships and financial aid

We can’t wait to see you there!

📆: Wednesday, March 26
🕛: 3 – 6 p.m.
📍: Merancas Campus, Merancas IV

REGISTER NOW

Student Scholarship Portal Open March 17- Apply Now!

Group of graduates waiting to march, taking a selfieThe Central Piedmont Foundation student scholarship portal opens today, Monday, March 17 for the 2025-26 academic year.

Need-based and merit-based scholarships are awarded for many reasons – choice of major, community involvement, special interests, creative talents, and more.

Most Foundation scholarships require a minimum 2.0 or 2.5 GPA. To be considered, students must be enrolled in a certificate, diploma, or degree program at Central Piedmont. Dual enrollment students who are still freshmen, sophomores, or juniors are ineligible to apply.

Submitting a scholarship application is competitive and not a guarantee of funding. Scholarships also do not guarantee that a student’s full tuition and fees will be covered, or that additional funds will be awarded in other sessions or terms.

Scholarships are awarded based on criteria set forth by the scholarship’s donor and the availability of funds, so please encourage your students to apply early.

The application deadline for the 2025-26 academic year is Aug. 31. For those applying only for Spring 2026 and/or Summer 2026, applications are accepted through Jan. 31, 2026.

To increase your chances of receiving funding, we encourage you to apply early. Individual scholarships remain open only until their funds are awarded, although applications are accepted until the deadline.

🌿 De-Stress Before Finals with Fun and Relaxation! 🌿

Art supplies, including yarn and hot glue guns, on a tableFeeling the pre-finals pressure? Take a well-deserved break and recharge your mind and body with some creative and calming activities! 🎨✨

Join us to:

  • Create coping kits 🧰
  • Make your own aromatherapy scents 🌸
  • Design your own jewelry 💎
  • Enjoy some relaxing coloring 🖍️

📅 Thursday, March 20
⏰ 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
📍 Harris Campus, Harris 1, Lobby

📅 Monday, March 24th
⏰ 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
📍 Harper Campus, Harper IV, Library

✨ Take a little “you time” to unwind, create, and de-stress before finals. We can’t wait to see you there! 💖

🌱 From Horticulture to the Stars: Faith Blom’s Journey to NASA 🚀

Faith Blom holding a plant

Faith Blom’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of finding the right support system. A Horticulture Technology student at Central Piedmont, she isn’t just working toward a degree—she’s chasing a lifelong dream of working for NASA.

🌍 Finding Her Passion in Plant Science

Since childhood, Faith was fascinated by space and knew she wanted to be a part of NASA. However, it wasn’t until she discovered plant science that she found her true passion. Now, she’s pursuing an associate degree in horticulture, knowing it will give her a competitive edge for a bachelor’s degree and a career in astrobiology.

💪 Overcoming Challenges

Faith’s journey hasn’t been easy. Living with Type 1 diabetes and facing financial struggles, she often wondered if her dream was possible. But thanks to the Campbell Horticulture Scholarship and Truist Honors Scholarship, she was able to focus on her education.

💬 “Having a disease like this while also trying to pursue my dreams is difficult, but these scholarships removed my financial burden and gave me the freedom to be a full-time learner.”

🔬 Breaking Barriers as a Woman in STEM

As a woman in STEM, Faith has faced discouragement and doubt in male-dominated spaces. But she refuses to let that define her. She hopes to inspire young women to fearlessly chase their passions.

🚀 Aiming for NASA

Recently, Faith interviewed for a NASA internship—a huge step toward her goal. While she wasn’t selected this time, she sees it as proof she’s on the right path.

At Central Piedmont, she’s found mentorship, encouragement, and new opportunities, thanks to faculty like Dr. Pritchett from the Truist Honors Program.

Sip and Paint on Central Campus

Paint supplies

Join us for a relaxing and creative evening as we celebrate Women’s History Month with a Sip & Paint event on March 27 from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. in the Parr Center.

Enjoy non-alcoholic beverages while you unleash your inner artist. This event is a perfect opportunity to unwind, socialize, and express yourself through art. All painting supplies will be provided and no prior painting experience is necessary. Come and celebrate women’s strength, creativity, and achievements in a fun and supportive environment! Take your painting home to gift to a woman you love in your life!

Register now and claim your spot!

 

Student Government Association Executive Board Applications now open for the 2025-26

Student wearing an SGA shirt at an outdoor eventReady to make a difference on campus? Get involved with the Student Government Association (SGA) and become a voice for your peers!

Join a vibrant community of student leaders dedicated to shaping the future of our school. Whether you have a passion for advocacy or event planning or just want to make your mark, there’s a place for you in the SGA. Develop invaluable leadership skills, network with faculty and fellow students, and create lasting memories. Don’t just attend school—leave a legacy. Apply to the SGA today and be the change you wish to see on campus!

Apply before March 31st!!

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.

──────────────────────────────────────────────────────

🍀 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! 🧘