Celebrate International Education Week Nov. 18-22

Collage of three photos: one of a white building with a red roof on the left; a group of Central Piedmont students holding a banner in the middle; a scenic photo of greenery with a body of water in the background on the rightThe Center for Global Engagement is thrilled to invite you to International Education Week (IEW), an annual celebration of the incredible value that global learning, cultural exchange, and collaboration bring to our lives and campuses worldwide. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education, IEW is an opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate the many benefits of international education and exchange.

From Nov. 18-22, we’re offering a dynamic lineup of events designed for students, staff, and faculty alike. Join us for inspiring conversations, cultural activities, and collaborative experiences that celebrate our diverse global community at Central Piedmont.

To sign up for any of these events, fill out this form.


Monday, November 18

Rep My Global Set

  • 🕛: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • 📍: Central Campus, Parr Center Ground Floor
  • 🔎: Enjoy a showcase of global connections through cultural expressions and symbols

Flags and Flavors: Grab a Doughnut, Embrace the World

  • 🕛: Noon – 2 p.m.
  • 📍: Central Campus, Parr Quad
  • 🔎: Taste the world while connecting with others in the Central Piedmont community

Tuesday, November 19

Global Skills in the Local World

  • 🕛: 2 – 3 p.m.
  • 📍: Central Campus, Parr Center, Room 0060/0070
  • 🔎: Build skills for a globalized workplace during this workshop

Film Club Presents: ‘Good Posture’

  • 🕛: 3:30 – 6 p.m.
  • 📍: Levine Campus, Room 2150
  • 🔎: Watch and discuss the British film “Good Posture”

Wednesday, November 20

Mint Museum Field Trip

  • 🕛: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • 📍: Randolph Location
  • 🔎: Explore international art and cultural heritage

Warm-Up Wednesday International Edition

  • 🕛: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • 📍: Harper Campus, Lower Lobby
  • 🔎: Engage in cultural games, have conversation, and indulge in international treats

Thursday, November 21

Blue Zone Effect at Central Piedmont

  • 🕛: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
  • 📍: Harris I Auditorium
  • 🔎: Learn about global wellness practices that lead to healthier and longer lives

Friday, November 22

International Potluck and Conversation

  • 🕛: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • 📍: Central Campus, Parr Center, Room 0060/0070
  • 🔎: Celebrate diversity through food and conversation. Bring a dish from your culture to share!

We can’t wait to see you at these events. Whether you join for one event or all, this week offers a unique chance to connect, learn, and celebrate our global community.

🌍 Center for Global Engagement – November 2024 Updates

🔎 Explore Global Clay Art at the Randolph Mint Museum Field Trip – International Education Week

Join us for an inspiring field trip to the Randolph Mint Museum!

  • Date: Wed., Nov. 20
  • Time: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • What to expect: Dive into the world of ceramics and discover the cultural heritage behind the Mint’s extensive collection. Explore various clay types and techniques used by artists to create pottery with unique forms and functions.

To secure a spot, students should complete the registration form by Nov. 13, selecting the “museum field trip” option on the form. A confirmation email will follow.

Note: Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from the museum.

🌍 Study Abroad Summer 2025

The Center for Global Engagement is pleased to announce Central Piedmont’s Summer 2025 study abroad and globally focused-domestic travel programs. Dates, specific program information, and applications for these programs are on the Study Abroad page of the Center for Global Engagement website.  All applications for 2025 are open with a deadline of Dec. 10, 2024. 

Programs are open to students 18 and older, employees, and community members. Some scholarships are available for students. Please email the Center for Global Engagement with questions or call 704-330-6167.

Summer 2025  

Florence, Italy: “Music, History, and Cultural Immersion” (Music Appreciation or CCE) –  May 21, 2025 – June 3, 2025

Spend two weeks immersing yourself in the history, music, and culture of Florence, Italy. Participants will dive into the local scene exploring neighborhoods and markets, such as Mercato Sant’Ambrogio. This special program will include visits to renowned sites like The Uffizi, the Duomo, the Palazzo Pitti, and Boboli Gardens, as well as day trips to destinations like San Gimignano and engaging talks by local experts about Italian music, culture, and history.

Subsequent days offer enriching experiences such as a walking tour of Renaissance Florence, visits to iconic landmarks like Santa Croce and the Casa di Dante, and reserved visits to cultural treasures like the Galleria dell’Accademia and the San Marco convent. Students will also have free exploration time, with the option to attend a concert at the Lyceum Club. With unforgettable experiences at every turn, this program to Florence promises to enrich your understanding of Italian culture, music, and history.

Japan: “Japanese Warlords in Modern Media” (Humanities 120 or CCE) – June 19, 2025 – June 30, 2025

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Japan, where ancient traditions meet modern marvels. Immerse yourself in the culture of Kyoto and its historic temples. Engage in authentic experiences such as savoring Shojin Ryori, a traditional Buddhist meal, and navigating the lively streets of Osaka’s Dotonbori district.

Uncover Japan’s history with visits to sites like Enryaku-ji on Mount Hiei, Todai-ji in Nara, and the Sekigahara Battlegrounds. Explore the fusion of science and tradition at venues like Miraikan, the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, and the quaint neighborhoods of Yanaka and Nezu in Tokyo. Customize your adventure with free exploration days, whether immersing yourself in cutting-edge technology at TEPIA or indulging your interests at the Square Enix Cafe in Akihabara.

United Kingdom & Romania: “Dracula: History & Literature in the footsteps of Bram Stoker” (Humanities – Myth & Human Culture and World Civilizations II or CCE) 
May 26, 2025 – June 6, 2025 

Explore the origins of Dracula and immerse yourself in the haunting world of Bram Stoker’s iconic novel with a unique study abroad experience led by Dacre Stoker, great-grandnephew of the legendary author himself.  Dive into the folklore of vampires in Romanian culture, uncovering historic inspirations for Stoker’s novel.

Visit key sites, such as Whitby, Sibiu, and Bran, where you will walk in the footsteps of the novel’s characters and explore the rich history behind the legends. From scenic hikes and historic tours to indulging in local cuisine and traditions, you will immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of England and Romania.

🤝 Join Us for a World Affairs Council Speaker Series Luncheon

The Center for Global Engagement and the Office of Mentoring and Coaching are excited to announce a partnership offering Central Piedmont students the opportunity to attend World Affairs Council Speaker Series Luncheons. There is one more luncheon coming up on Dec. 4. 

CEO Series with Leon Topalian, Chair, President and Chief Executive Officer of NUCOR. For more information, click here. 

There are a limited number of free tickets available for these luncheons, and registration through the Center for Global Engagement is required. Registration for the months of November and December is now open! For more details about the WACC luncheon opportunities and requirements, and to register, please use the form linked HERE.

For any questions, feel free to reach out via email at global.learning@cpcc.edu.

✍️ Express Your Gratitude at Central Piedmont! ✍️

An off-white envelope, sealed with red wax sealFeeling thankful? Join us for a gratitude letter writing event at Central Piedmont’s Harris and Harper Campuses. This is your chance to take a moment and share your appreciation with someone who has made a difference in your life.

Event Details:

Harper Campus

  • When: Tue., Nov. 19
  • Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
  • Where: Harper IV Building,1st Floor Lobby

Harris Campus

  • When: Wed., Nov. 20
  • Time: Noon – 2:30 p.m.
  • Where: Harris I Building, 1st Floor Lobby

What to Expect:

  • ✉️ Write letters of gratitude: Craft a heartfelt message to someone you care about.
  • 📝 Materials provided: We’ve got all you need to create a meaningful note.

Why Attend?

  • Boost your mood and spread positivity
  • Connect with others in a meaningful way
  • Free supplies and a relaxing environment

Take a break from your day and share some love! For more information, contact Brittany Lutton.

“The Rustic Whisk” Grand Opening and Thanksgiving Bake Sale

The Rustic Whisk logo on a baby blue backgroundThe Baking and Pastry Arts Department is thrilled to announce the opening of The Rustic Whisk — our student-run bakery and bistro, offering a cozy atmosphere filled with handcrafted artisan treats!

🍞 Opening Details:

  • Date: Mon., Nov. 11
  • Location: Harris Campus, Student Life Center
  • Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., Monday-Thursday
  • What to Expect: Enjoy a selection of freshly baked breads, pastries, savory items, and seasonal delights, all crafted by our talented students.

Thanksgiving Bake Sale Menu is Now Live for pre-orders!

We Offer a variety of seasonal pies & artisan breads perfect for your holiday gathering! Last day to place online pre-orders is Wednesday, November 20.

Available for PICK UP ONLY

  • Date: November 27
  • Location: Harris Campus, Student Life Center
  • Time: 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Our mission is to foster student growth and creativity through this capstone project, and we can’t wait to share it with you. Come support our students and enjoy a delicious treat from The Rustic Whisk! 🥐🌿

First Gen Week: Come Join Us!

Three students posing with first-gen student signsJoin the office of mentoring and coaching as we celebrate First Gen Week! We have several events happening in the remainder of the week.

  • Wed., Nov. 6: First Gen Meet and Greet
    🕙 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
    📍 Library, Room 2160
  • Thurs., Nov. 7: I Am First Panel
    🕑 2 – 3 p.m.
    📍 Library, Room 2160
  • Fri., Nov. 8: First Gen Activate Community Service
    🕑 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
    📍 Parr Center, Room 0060-0070

If you have any questions, please email Courtney.Lowery@cpcc.edu.

Carla Strickland – From Accounting to Welding Sparks 🔥🔧

Carla Strickland headshot

Meet Carla Strickland – a Central Piedmont student whose career journey has taken a fiery twist! Originally set on accounting, Carla found her true calling in Welding Technology and is now on track to graduate in May 2025 with an AAS in Welding Technology – Fabrication & Manufacturing.

Scholarship-Funded Success 🎓💸
Supported by the Crowder Construction Scholarship and the William Randolph Hearst Foundation Scholarship, Carla’s path shows how ambition and opportunity can open new doors.

From Inspiration to Creation 🎨✨
A high school dual enrollment program at Mallard Creek and online videos ignited Carla’s passion for welding. One of her proudest projects? Crafting a swinging man sculpture in her Fabrication class! From blueprints to weld types, she loved every detail of bringing it to life.

Future Goals 🚀
Carla’s dreams go beyond her graduation date. She aims to:

  • Earn her Certified Welding Inspector certification within two years,
  • Volunteer and mentor fellow welders, and
  • Launch her own welding firm, specializing in services and training young welders.

Carla’s journey reminds us that following your passion can lead to an exciting, fulfilling career. Her story is an inspiring example of how curiosity and hard work pay off! 🌟

REMINDER: Career Development Week is Nov. 12-14

An employer speaks with a student after a panel.Career Development Week is packed with events designed to help you boost your professional skills, connect with employers, and prepare for your future. Here’s a breakdown of the key events:

📅 Event Schedule:

  1. Resume Building Workshop 📝
    • Date: Tuesday, Nov. 12
    • Time: 12-2 p.m.
    • Location: Parr Center, Rooms 0060 & 0070
    • Description: Get your resume reviewed by hiring professionals and explore the Central Piedmont Clothing Closet for free interview attire.
  2. 💼 IT and Finance Meet & Greet
    • Date: Tuesday, Nov. 12
    • Time: 2-3 p.m.
    • Location: Parr Center, Room 1000
    • Description: Connect with industry experts in two of Charlotte’s fastest-growing fields—IT and Finance. Discover career opportunities and make lasting connections.
  3. 🧠 Emotional Intelligence Workshop
    • Date: Tuesday, Nov. 12
    • Time: 3:15-4:15 p.m.
    • Location: Parr Center, Room 1010
    • Description: Learn how emotional intelligence can transform your professional and personal life, helping you build stronger, more influential relationships.
  4. 📄 Resume Development Workshop
    • Date: Wednesday, Nov. 13
    • Time: 10-11 a.m.
    • Location: Parr Center, Rooms 1000 & 1010
    • Description: Get professional insights into what makes a resume stand out from the hiring experts themselves!
  5. 👥 Employer Panel and Meet & Greet
    • Date: Wednesday, Nov. 13
    • Time: 1-3 p.m.
    • Location: North Classroom Building Auditorium, Room 1123
    • Description: Hear from employers across various industries about their career paths, the skills they value, and network with potential employers.
  6. 🌐 Virtual Alumni Leadership Council Meet & Greet
    • Date: Wednesday, Nov. 13
    • Time: 1-3 p.m.
    • Location: Virtual on Microsoft Teams
    • Description: Hear from employers across various industries about their career paths, the skills they value, and network with potential employers.
  7. 💻 Power Up with LinkedIn Workshop with Virtual Viewing Party
    • Date: Thursday, Nov. 14
    • Time: 10-11 a.m.
    • Location: Virtual on Microsoft Teams, with viewing party at Hagemayer Library, Room 2160
    • Description: Learn how to leverage LinkedIn to build your brand and connect with employers in today’s digital world.
  8. 🔍 Virtual Job Strategy Workshop
    • Date: Thursday, Nov. 14
    • Time: 1-2 p.m.
    • Location: Virtual on Microsoft Teams
    • Description: Join Mark Short, Central Piedmont’s HR expert, to learn strategic job search techniques and how to maximize your job search.
  9. 🏙️ City of Charlotte Speaks
    • Date: Thursday, Nov. 14
    • Time: 3:30-4:30 p.m.
    • Location: Parr Center, Rooms 1000 & 1010
    • Description: Explore diverse career options within the City of Charlotte, from public services to HR and beyond.

For more information and detailed schedules, visit the event page.

Central Campus: Write a Letter, Honor a Veteran! 💌

Student writes a thank you noteThis Veterans Day, let’s show our gratitude to those who have served. Join Student Life on Thurs., Nov. 7 for a special event where we’ll be writing letters to express our appreciation and support for Central Piedmont veterans.

Event Details:

📅 Date: November 7
🕒 Time: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
📍 Location: Central Campus, Student Life Office

What to Expect:

  • ✍️ Write a Heartfelt Note – All supplies are provided, so just bring your appreciation and kind words!
  • 🍪 Enjoy Light Refreshments – We’ll have snacks to make the experience enjoyable and relaxed.

Stop by, share a message of gratitude, and help us honor those who have served. Let’s make sure our veterans know just how much they mean to us!

Virtual Panel – Insights from Medical Office Administration Students 💼✨

Three professionally dressed women, smiling for the cameraCurious about what a career in Medical Office Administration looks like? Join us for an inspiring virtual panel with current and former students from the Medical Office Administration Program! Get a behind-the-scenes look at the skills, insights, and career paths this program opens up.

Why Join?

  • Learn from Real Experiences: Hear firsthand how students and alumni are applying their knowledge in healthcare settings or how they’re planning to use their skills post-graduation.
  • Ask Questions: This is a unique opportunity to interact, ask questions, and gain valuable advice from those who have been in your shoes.

How to Join

  • Click on the Teams link to jump right into the event.
  • Bonus: Complete our registration form to receive a reminder email with the event link for easy access!

Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and envision your future in Medical Office Administration.

Honoring Our Veterans at Central Piedmont 🎖️

Veteran speaks at a podium with an American flag in the background

Join Veterans Services on November 11 as we come together to honor the courageous men and women who have served in our armed forces. This special day is an opportunity for our community to recognize the dedication and sacrifice of our veterans. Let’s celebrate them with gratitude, respect, and community spirit!

🍽️ Veterans Day Luncheon Details:

Veterans Services will host luncheons at multiple campus locations. Find your nearest location below, and join us to enjoy food, camaraderie, and conversation:

  • Central Campus: Parr Center, Room 2160
  • Harper IV: Room 320
  • Merancas Campus: Veterans Center
  • Cato Campus: Annabelle Building, Multipurpose Room 024
  • Levine Campus: Veterans Center

Event Time: All luncheons will take place Nov. 11 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Come by, enjoy a meal, and support our veterans on this special day of celebration. Let’s show our veterans how much we value their service and contributions to our community.

🚀 Join Us for the STEM Tank Competition: Students Tackle Real-World Issues!

Photo of a group of students on the stairs in front of a Central Campus academic building in professional attireCentral Piedmont invites faculty, staff, and students to witness the innovative spirit of our students as they present their solutions to real challenges in our community and on campus. Don’t miss the STEM Tank Competition!

📅 Event Details:

  • Date: Fri., Nov. 15
  • Time: 11 a.m.
  • Location: Central Campus, Overcash Building, Tate Hall

In just five weeks, student teams have developed thoughtful proposals aimed at making a positive impact using science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). This event is a fantastic opportunity to see firsthand how students build teamwork, hone their research abilities, and polish their presentation skills as they work toward meaningful change.

Come support our students and get inspired by their ideas and passion! 💡🌟

🎭 Kick Off the Parr Arts & Humanities Series with the West Virginia Dance Company!

Central Piedmont is thrilled to announce the first event of the 2024-25 Parr Arts and Humanities Series — a captivating performance by the West Virginia Dance Company at the Parr Center Theater! Experience the power of dance that combines stunning light design, visual art, and costumes to create a moving kaleidoscope of color and storytelling.

🌟 Performance Schedule:

  • First Show: Thurs., Nov. 14 at 2 p.m.
  • Second Show: Fri., Nov. 15 at 7 p.m.
  • Location: Parr Center Theater, Central Campus
  • Admission: Free, but registration is required to reserve your spot!

The West Virginia Dance Company performs for tens of thousands annually, delivering thought-provoking art that entertains and inspires. The Parr Arts & Humanities Series brings esteemed artists and authors to Central Piedmont, enriching the campus and the Charlotte community with world-class cultural events.

Don’t miss this exciting start to the season — register today and be part of a memorable celebration of the arts!

De-Stress Event: Relax Before Finals at Central Piedmont! 🧘‍♀️

Students sitting in the floor, coloringFeeling the pressure of upcoming finals? 😓 Take a breather and join us for a De-Stress Event! It’s the perfect way to unwind and recharge before hitting the books again.

Activities Include:

  • 🛍️ Coping Kits: Create your own personalized kit filled with stress-relief goodies.
  • 🌿 Aromatherapy: Mix and make your own soothing scents.
  • 🎨 Coloring: Tap into your creative side with some relaxing coloring.

Event Details:

  • 📅 Date: Wed., Nov. 13
  • 🕛 Time: Noon – 2:30 p.m.
  • 📍 Location: Harris Campus, Harris Building 1 Lobby

Questions? Contact Brittany Lutton at brittany.lutton@cpcc.edu.

Come de-stress with us and head into finals feeling refreshed and ready! 💪

🎉 Celebrate I Am First Gen Week at Central Piedmont Nov. 4-8

Three students posing with first-gen student signsThe Office of Mentoring and Coaching is hosting an exciting week-long event to honor our first-generation students, faculty, and staff. Whether you’re a first-generation student or just want to show your support, come out to celebrate, connect, and learn! Here’s the lineup:

  • Mon., Nov. 4: First Generation Awareness
    🕚 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
    📍 Parr Center, Room 1000-1050
  • Tues., Nov. 5: Get Out and Vote
    • 🗳️ It’s Election Day! Make sure your voice is heard by casting your vote. Find your polling location and check voting hours.
    • First-Gen alumni: wear your alma mater shirts and sweatshirts; current first-gen students: wear a shirt for your FUTURE alma mater or your Central Piedmont shirt/sweatshirt
  • Wed., Nov. 6: First Gen Meet and Greet
    🕙 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
    📍 Library, Room 2160
  • Thurs., Nov. 7: I Am First Panel
    🕑 2 – 3 p.m.
    📍 Library, Room 2160
  • Fri., Nov. 8: First Gen Activate Community Service
    🕑 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
    📍 Parr Center, Room 0060-0070

Don’t miss out on this chance to celebrate, connect, and be inspired! 🥳✨

🦃 November Special at Hen & Steer Grill: Grilled Turkey Club!

Turkey sandwich with the words "Tukey Day is almost here... introducing the grilled turkey club with cranberry mayo" at the top and "Make it a combo $9.99, sandwich with fries and a fountain drink" in a circle in the bottom left cornerFor November only, Hen & Steer Grill at the Parr Student Center on Central Campus is serving up a seasonal favorite you won’t want to miss!

🍽️ Grilled Turkey Club with Cranberry Mayo

  • Combo Deal: Includes fries 🍟 and a fountain drink 🥤 for just $9.99!

Stop by and grab this delicious combo while it lasts. Perfect for getting into the holiday spirit with a taste of turkey and a tangy twist! 🍂✨

🌟 Central Piedmont Students Shine at the 2024 AMG Heritage Awards

Two culinary students working the Heritage AwardsThe 2024 AMG Heritage Awards lit up the Dale F. Halton Theater on Oct. 26, and Central Piedmont students were at the heart of the action! From backstage glamour to culinary excellence, students from the Cosmetology and Culinary Programs showcased their talents at this prestigious event.

💄 Cosmetology in Action:

Cosmetology students took on the exciting challenge of styling hair and makeup for Music Artist Legends and NC Senior Beauty Queens. Some of the legendary artists included David L. Cooke, Denise Williams, and Skip Martin. Students got hands-on, real-world experience working before, during, and after the show, demonstrating their professionalism both in the dressing rooms and on stage.

  • Real-World Experience: This event gave students the chance to add high-profile experience to their professional portfolios, resumes, and profiles. We are so proud of their exceptional work and dedication!

🍽️ Culinary Creativity:

Students from the Culinary Program took the stage—well, the dining stage—by preparing and serving the After Show Reception dinner. They wowed guests with a spread of appetizing, creative delicacies, showcasing their culinary talents.

🙌 A Team Effort:

Led by department faculty and staff, this event provided students with a fun and enriching learning experience. A huge thank you to all the volunteers and the Halton Theater staff who made this opportunity possible!

Congratulations to our students for their incredible work at the AMG Heritage Awards! 🎉🌟

💖 Central Piedmont’s CASA Club Supports Breast Cancer Survivors at the Pink Boots Ball

Group of volunteers holding bags in front of Carolina Breast Friends sign

On Oct. 24, Central Piedmont’s Cosmetology Club (CASA Club) partnered with

Carolina Breast Friends Pink House to provide hair and makeup services for an inspiring cause. The annual Pink Boots Ball celebrates local women who have survived breast cancer and honors those we’ve lost.

Here’s what happened:

  • Hair & Makeup Services: CASA Club had the privilege of helping 20-26 survivors look and feel their best by offering complimentary hair and makeup services for the event.
  • Comfort Bags Donation: The entire Cosmetology Department, including educators and students, came together to create 12 Comfort Bags. These thoughtful bags contain items like:
    • Fleece blankets 🧣
    • Ginger candies & tea 🍬🍵
    • First-aid essentials
    • Puzzle books 🧩
    • And more, all to offer comfort to women undergoing breast cancer treatment.

This partnership with Carolina Breast Friends means the world to the CASA Club, and they’re excited to continue supporting and uplifting the women in our community.

Want to contribute? If you’re interested in donating Comfort Bags or learning more, reach out to Central Piedmont’s Cosmetology Department for details!

Together, we can make a difference! 💕

🧘‍♀️ Relax and Unwind Day with Counseling Services!

Student sitting on the ground, petting a white lab

Join Counseling Services on Wed., Nov. 6 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Central Campus, Parr Center, 1st Floor for a special day dedicated to relaxation and stress relief. Activities include:

  • Yoga 🧘‍♂️
  • Snack Bar 🍎
  • Art & Jewelry Making 🎨
  • Dog Therapy 🐕
  • Zen Station 🧘‍♀️

Take a break from your busy schedule and focus on your well-being! 🌿

Join us for the Transfer, Education, STEAM, and Hospitality Open House

A student works on a computer aided machining press to cut metal.Still deciding on your program of study? Join us for the Transfer, Education, STEAM, and Hospitality Open House to discover all that Central Piedmont has to offer. Whether you’re into arts, science, technology, or hospitality, this event is for you!

📅 Event Details:

  • 🗓️ Date: Thursday, Nov. 14
  • 🕙 Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • 📍 Location: Central Campus, Parr Center

What to Expect:

  • 🔍 Explore Programs: From Math and Arts to Technology and Engineering, check out our diverse academic offerings.
  • 💡 Meet the Faculty: Get inspired by meeting faculty members who are experts in their fields.
  • 🌱 Hands-On Experiences: Immerse yourself in real-world demonstrations and activities.
  • 🏫 Campus Tours: Explore classrooms, labs, and performance facilities to get a feel for your future learning spaces.
  • 💰 Financial Aid & Scholarships: Learn about resources to fund your education.
  • 🎓 Transfer Opportunities: Discover pathways for transferring to four-year institutions.

How to Register:

Please complete this form to secure your spot at the open house!

We’re excited to help you find your path at Central Piedmont! ✨

🌪️ Central Piedmont Faculty Lead Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts

Two men, shaking hands. One wears a hard hat and a reflective vestThe devastation left by Hurricane Helene has deeply affected communities across the region. In response, several Central Piedmont faculty members have stepped up to provide critical aid and support.

A Call to Action: Matt Smith’s Relief Efforts

  • Matthew Smith, associate dean of transportation, faced the storm’s aftermath near his home in Hickory. He, along with neighbors, used chainsaws and equipment to clear trees and debris blocking streets and driveways. But once he realized the full extent of the damage, he knew he had to do more.
  • Joining Forces: Smith traveled to Boone and partnered with Samaritan’s Purse to further the relief efforts. During one operation, he and fellow volunteers encountered an elderly couple trapped by a mudslide. It took nearly four and a half hours using an excavator and front loader to clear the mud and debris that had enveloped their home.
  • Restoring Hope: “You have people in absolute dire straits, and then an army of people from all over showed up to help,” Smith shared. “It was humbling and restored your faith in humanity.”
  • Smith returned to Boone four more times, bringing colleagues from the Transportation Department to assist with ongoing recovery efforts.

Matt Miller’s Innovative Approach

  • Matt Miller, chair of sustainability technologies, found inspiration to help after seeing the damage at his alma mater, Montreat College. He put his teaching into action by creating and donating mobile solar generators to provide families with a way to charge portable devices and small medical equipment. So far, seven units have been built and donated.
  • A New Project: After witnessing families tent camping beside the Swannanoa River, surrounded by walls of plastic water bottles, Miller and his class began working on a solar water pump project. The goal is to filter river water to provide clean, drinkable water to those in need.

Community Collaboration

Miller and Smith’s efforts were supported by several colleagues, including Amber and Shawn Dobbins, Chris Facente, Stephen Gerhardt, Brittany Holleran, Jason Johnson, John Monagle, Cory Palmer, and D.I. von Briesen. Chris Facente, the dean of skilled trades and transportation, praised their dedication and initiative:

“Both exemplify the values of collaboration, excellence, accountability for their communities, and courage. They weren’t asked to take these tasks on, but they knew it was the right thing to do.”

These efforts showcase Central Piedmont’s commitment to community service and the extraordinary dedication of its faculty to support those in need.