🌍 Join Us in the Fight Against World Hunger!

volunteers packing meals

Ready to make a difference and contribute to a global cause? The Mentoring/Coaching and Student Engagement offices at Central Piedmont are thrilled to present an extraordinary opportunity for you to participate in the Rise Against Hunger Meal Kit Assembly program!

🤝 About the Event:
Join hands with fellow students, faculty, and staff to assemble meal kits for communities in need. By participating, you’ll impact lives, forge connections, and create lasting memories.

🍽️ About Rise Against Hunger:
Rise Against Hunger is a global organization dedicated to eradicating hunger by providing nutritious meals worldwide. At Central Piedmont, we believe in community strength and giving back, so we’ve partnered with Rise Against Hunger for this impactful event on our campus.

📅 Event Details:

  • Date: Thurs., April 25
  • Time: 1 p.m.
  • Location: Worrell Gym, Central Campus

💪 How to Join:
Ready to be part of this meaningful endeavor? Reserve your spot now before space runs out! Sign up through the link below and secure your place in this opportunity to make a positive change.

Sign up here for Central Piedmont Rise Against Hunger

🌟 Together, We Can Make a Difference!
Let’s unite to rise against hunger and build a world where everyone can access nutritious food. We can’t wait to see you at the Rise Against Hunger Meal Kit Assembly event!

🚀 Central Piedmont Collaborates with NC Science Festival for FUTURES Program

Central Piedmont has joined forces with the NC Science Festival organization to introduce FUTURES, a STEM outreach program aimed at encouraging underrepresented minorities to explore opportunities in STEM fields. FUTURES aims to inspire faculty, staff, students, and alumni to engage with their local community by sharing their personal journeys.

📅 STEM Spotlight: April 4,
On April 4, Central Piedmont’s STEM students gathered to discuss their passion for STEM and the motivating factors driving their academic pursuits. Mrs. Marcella Yonkosky from the NC Science Festival Organization led training workshops to enhance engagement and participation.

🌟 Meet the Students:

group of students

Ashelaye Garritt, Amariah Robinson, Sierra Lawson, Jaismeen Kaur, Rosario Sanchez, Mitchell Boswell, Jennifer Lopez, Andrei Vince, Asiyah Ibrahim, Damian Tillman, Diego Mejia, and Brian Peacock

🙌 Acknowledgments:
Special recognition goes to Dr. Elisha McDonald and Mrs. Amber Griffin, Central Piedmont FUTURES Coordinators, for their dedication and support in making this program successful. 🎉

🎉 Connect and Explore at Speed Friendshipping Event!

students at deskAre you eager to expand your social circle and discover new connections? Are you curious if others share your interests? Then mark your calendars for our upcoming Speed Friendshipping event, hosted by the Cato Campus Library in collaboration with the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s Community Read initiative. Get ready to mingle, enjoy diverse cultures, and savor delicious food!

📚 Featured Book: Buttermilk Graffiti by Edward Lee

🗓️ Event Details:

  • Date: Thurs., Apr. 18
  • Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
  • Location: Cato Campus, Cato Amphitheater

🌦️ Weather Backup:
In case of inclement weather, we’ve got you covered! The backup location will be at Cato Campus, Room 024.

Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to make new friends, share experiences, and indulge in the vibrant diversity of our community. See you there! 🌟

🎶 Discover Harmony at Central Piedmont’s Music Events!

band

Explore the melodies of conflict and concord at Central Piedmont’s upcoming music events, featuring talented ensembles, music students, and faculty. From classical compositions to contemporary tunes, there’s something for every musical palate. Join us for an unforgettable auditory journey!

🤝 CONFLICT RESOLUTION Open Mic Event

  • Date: Wednesday, Apr. 17
  • Time: 12:20 p.m.
  • Location: Parr Center, Collaborative Staircase

🕊️ WAR & PEACE Musical Showcase

  • Date: Wednesday, Apr. 17
  • Time: 7:20 p.m.
  • Location: Tate Hall, Overcash Center

🎸 BATTLE of the BANDS Extravaganza

  • Date: Thursday, Apr. 18
  • Time: 12:20 p.m.
  • Location: Parr Center, Collaborative Staircase

Immerse yourself in the captivating sounds of Central Piedmont’s talented vocalists and instrumentalists. Don’t miss these electrifying performances! 🎵

🍽️ Mastering Professionalism: Soft Skills Etiquette Luncheon

students shaking hands

Prepare to sharpen your professional edge at Central Piedmont’s Soft Skills Etiquette Luncheon! This event, designed to equip students with essential soft skills for success in today’s competitive job market, promises an enlightening experience focused on interpersonal communication and etiquette principles.

🗓️ Event Details:

  • Date: Wed., Apr. 24
  • Time: 1:30–3 p.m.
  • Location: Parr Center, Room 1000, Central Campus
  • Attire: Business Casual

👔 Dress for Success:
Prepare to impress by visiting the Professional Clothing Closet on:

  • Tues., April 9
  • Tues., April 16
  • Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Location: Worrell Building, Room 1152, Central Campus

📝 Register Now:

Secure your spot at the Soft Skills Etiquette Luncheon by registering today!

Don’t miss this invaluable opportunity to refine your professional etiquette and elevate your career prospects. See you there! 🚀

Tasty Traditions – Baking & Pastry Program Takeout & Bakehouse

Tasty TraditionsDear Students,

The Central Piedmont Baking and Pastry Arts department is very excited to welcome you to our pop-up meal service and bakehouse, which are available on Harris Campus! Our “Tasty Traditions” business is not just about food but our students’ heritage and traditions, shown through our love of pastry and culinary. We will offer daily pre-fixe meals available via pre-order Monday-Thursday with pick-up times from 10am-1:30pm. Additionally, students and staff on the City View campus are eligible for meal delivery daily at 12:00pm Monday-Thursday, so you can receive your items without leaving the area during your busy schedules. We will also have an end-of-week bake sale for pre-orders each Thursday. Limited a la carte meals and treats will be available daily at Harris Campus!

Currently, we’re offering our Latin American menu, which you can order via the QR code in the flyer or the following link: order.yourmenu.com/cpccaspirebisto. We encourage you to check out our social media and try us! Your support will provide us with enormous encouragement for our new venture.

You can support us by following us on social media:
Instagram: @Tasty.traditions.clt
Facebook: @Tasty traditions

We look forward to seeing you soon,

The Students of Tasty Traditions Bakehouse and Takeout

From Piano Prodigy to Future Radio Star: Will Thames’ Inspirational Journey Shines Bright”

Will ThamesWill Thames, a 22-year-old from Charlotte, NC, shares his inspiring journey at Central Piedmont!⭐ Will highlights his aspirations and the role Central Piedmont has played in his educational and personal growth. As a Myers Park High School graduate, Will chose Central Piedmont to pave his path toward a future in radio broadcasting and music, drawn by the college’s diverse course offerings and the prospect of transferring to Appalachian State University.

Will’s passion for music, particularly piano, has been a guiding light in his life since the age of 5. Inspired by legends like Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles, he dreams of carving out a career in radio broadcasting and becoming a professional musician. “What I want to do with my degree is pursue a career in radio broadcasting,” Will shares.🎹

Despite not yet being involved in clubs or organizations at Central Piedmont, Will’s dedication to his studies and music speaks volumes. His advice to future students is profound yet simple: “Come with an open mind and to learn new and exciting things. It will go a long way toward your future.” He believes firmly that the foundation for a bright future starts with the opportunities grasped today.😃

Will’s encounter with Stevie Wonder nine years ago in Charlotte remains a pivotal moment in his life, fuelling his ambition to follow in the footsteps of his idols. His admiration for other blind musicians, especially Matthew Whitaker, underscores a deep connection to artists who’ve navigated similar challenges, highlighting the unique and shared experiences that bind them. 💫

Join the Meck Mile Fun Next to Central Campus on May 25th! 🏃‍♀️🎉

Get ready for a day of energy, excitement, and community spirit! The Meck Mile, presented by Albemarle, is set to take off next to Central Piedmont’s Central Campus. This event isn’t just a race; it’s a celebration for all, perfectly tailored for walkers, runners, and everyone in between!

MeckMile LogoMeck Mile course

Event Details:

  • Date: Sat., May 25
  • Finish Line Festivities: Cross into Memorial Stadium to a party with a beer garden, live music, a kids’ area, and more.
  • Free for Kids: Young runners, 13 and under, can join the race without charge when they sign up before the event day.

Special Perks:

  • Discount Offer: Use the promo code in your college email by Sun., Apr. 14, for an exclusive registration discount.
  • Online Registration: Ready to lace up? Visit the Meck Mile website to secure your spot.

Stay Connected:

  • Social Media: Keep up with the latest updates by following the Meck Mile on Instagram and Facebook.

A Mile for All: Whether you’re sprinting, strolling, or cheering, the Meck Mile is about bringing our community together, one step at a time. Don’t miss out on the fun next to Central Piedmont – because this is one day, one mile, for everyone! 🎶🍻👟

Central Piedmont and Lees-McRae College Forge Path with New ‘Guaranteed Admission Program’ 🎓

Central Piedmont Community College, in a significant move to enhance higher education pathways, has partnered with Lees-McRae College to establish the ‘Guaranteed Admission Program’ (GAP). This landmark agreement, signed on Apr. 9, 2024, promises Central Piedmont students a seamless transfer to Lees-McRae College, paving the way for attaining bachelor’s degrees and beyond.

Lees McRae tshirts

 

Key Highlights of the Agreement:

  • Automatic Admission: Central Piedmont students who earn an Associate of Arts, Associate in Science, Associate in Applied Science, or Associate in Fine Arts degree and meet specific GPA requirements will be automatically admitted to Lees-McRae College.
  • Merit Scholarships: Eligible students can receive merit scholarships covering up to 50% of Lees-McRae’s annual tuition, making higher education more accessible.
  • Signing Ceremony: The agreement was ratified during a ceremony at Central Piedmont’s Central Campus in Charlotte, attended by Dr. Lee King, President of Lees-McRae College, Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, President of Central Piedmont, and other distinguished leaders from both institutions.
  • Program Start: The Guaranteed Admission Program will welcome its first students in August, coinciding with the commencement of the fall 2024 semester.

Why This Partnership Matters:

  • Enhancing Higher Education Access: This program exemplifies Central Piedmont and Lees-McRae College’s commitment to increasing access to higher education. It aligns with North Carolina’s myFutureNC initiative, which aims to boost the number of residents with post-secondary degrees or credentials by 2030.
  • Unique Educational Opportunities: Lees-McRae, located in the scenic town of Banner Elk, offers Central Piedmont graduates a distinctive academic and social environment conducive to personal and professional growth.
  • Supporting North Carolina’s Economy: The GAP facilitates a smoother transition for students seeking higher education, supporting the state’s economic development goals through an educated and skilled workforce.

A Bright Future Ahead: This partnership marks a new chapter for Central Piedmont and Lees-McRae College and for the countless students who will benefit from expanded educational opportunities. Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer stated that this collaboration is poised to open doors to “great experiences and success” for Central Piedmont students at Lees-McRae.

Central Piedmont is excited to witness the future achievements of its students who embark on their next academic journey at Lees-McRae College, bolstered by the support and opportunities provided by the Guaranteed Admission Program.

Architecture Students Shine at Midterm Presentation Event 🌟

Architecture students recently showcased their talents and hard work during a pivotal midterm presentation event. This gathering was not only a platform for presenting design projects but also a vibrant forum for exchanging innovative ideas and narratives through architectural design.

architectiure students

Event Highlights:

  • Diverse Presentation Techniques: Students employed various methods to bring their visions to life, from traditional hand-drawing and physical model-making to advanced design and technical software.
  • Narrative-Driven Designs: The focus extended beyond architectural solutions, emphasizing the storytelling aspect of design to effectively communicate their visions.

Remarkable Talent on Display: One of the event’s standout moments came from Karen Dominguez Sanchez, whose exceptional model-making skills garnered admiration from peers and professionals alike.

architectiure students

Esteemed Guests and Educators:

  • Jarinat Williams, AIA, NCARB from Passero Associates
  • William Allen from FMK Architects
  • Zane Gray from C Design
  • Stefan Pienkny, Adjunct Instructor at Central Piedmont
  • Supported by Travis Smith, Architecture Department Chair, and Abeer Ibrahim, Assoc. AIA, Full-Time Faculty for Architecture

Gratitude for Participation: Central Piedmont extends a heartfelt thank you to:

  • Our dedicated students, for their commitment and hard work in preparing for this event.
  • Our guest architects and educators for providing invaluable feedback and insights, enhancing the educational experience for our students.

This event not only highlighted the incredible talent within Central Piedmont’s Architecture Department but also reinforced the importance of collaboration and feedback in the architectural community. Opportunities like these enrich our students’ educational journeys, preparing them for successful futures in architecture and design.

architectiure students

🎓 NextNC: A Game-Changing Scholarship Program 🌟

Next NCThe NextNC scholarship is a groundbreaking program established by the NC General Assembly that can transform students’ futures. This initiative is designed to significantly reduce financial barriers to higher education for eligible students within the North Carolina community college system, including those at Central Piedmont, and for students aiming to attend UNC System institutions.

Key Features of the NextNC Scholarship Program:

  • Free College Opportunity: NextNC offers community college students an incredible opportunity to receive a free education in Pell-eligible programs.
  • Generous Funding: Eligible students could receive up to $3,000 per year, covering tuition, fees, books, and more at community colleges.
  • Accessibility: Families with an annual income of less than $80,000 can apply for this grant without strings attached.
  • FAFSA Requirement: Students must complete the FAFSA to qualify for this grant.
  • Enhanced Support for UNC System Students: While offering substantial support to community college students, NextNC also provides $5,000 to those wishing to attend UNC System institutions.

Why NextNC Matters:

  • Breaking Financial Barriers: NextNC acknowledges that financial considerations are the primary factor in pursuing higher education and aims to make college more accessible.
  • Boosting Enrollment: By alleviating the financial burden, NextNC is expected to increase enrollment rates at community colleges like Central Piedmont.
  • Encouraging FAFSA Completion: The program motivates students to complete their FAFSA, ensuring they access all available financial aid.

How to Benefit from NextNC:

  • Eligibility Check: Ensure your program is Pell-eligible and your family’s income exceeds the $80,000 threshold.
  • FAFSA Application: Complete your FAFSA as a critical step to qualify for the NextNC scholarship.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with Central Piedmont’s financial aid office for guidance and support throughout the application process.

Take the Next Step: This is your chance to pursue your educational dreams without the weight of financial constraints. NextNC represents a pivotal moment for prospective and current Central Piedmont students, offering a pathway to higher education that was previously out of reach for many.

🌟 “The Impossible Dream” with Aaron Lazar: An Evening of Inspiration 🎭

Come to Halton Theater for an unforgettable evening with the acclaimed actor and Broadway sensation Aaron Lazar. This event, hosted in collaboration with the Joe Martin ALS Foundation, promises to be more than just a performance; it’s a journey through song and story that celebrates perseverance, healing, courage, a positive mindset, and the essence of living in the moment.

Event Details:

  • Date: Wed., Apr. 18, 2024
  • Time: 7 – 8 p.m.
  • Location: Central Campus, Overcash Building, Halton Theater
  • Admission: Free for Central Piedmont students and employees with a valid ID

Why Attend?

  • Inspirational Journey: Aaron Lazar will share his incredible journey, marked by his recent ALS diagnosis, through an inspiring musical and narrative performance.
  • Raise Awareness: This special evening aims to raise awareness about ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), illuminating the challenges and hopes of facing such a diagnosis.
  • Message of Hope: Learn about finding purpose, joy, and hope amidst life’s most daunting challenges, as conveyed through Lazar’s moving rendition of “The Impossible Dream.”
  • Community Support: Join the Central Piedmont community and the Joe Martin ALS Foundation in supporting those affected by ALS and celebrating the indomitable spirit of resilience and positivity.

Highlights:

  • Award-Winning Talent: Experience the magnetic presence and talent of Aaron Lazar, whose accolades span Broadway, television, and film.
  • Meaningful Cause: Contribute to a cause that seeks to bring light to ALS, offering support and understanding to individuals and families navigating this condition.
  • Connect and Reflect: This event is not just a performance but an opportunity to connect with others, reflect on the power of a positive outlook, and be inspired to live fully in every moment.

Don’t miss this extraordinary evening with Aaron Lazar at Central Piedmont’s Halton Theater. Whether you’re a Broadway fan, interested in supporting ALS awareness, or in need of an uplifting message, this event promises to be a memorable and impactful experience.

🎉 Celebrate Charlotte’s Rich History at the Free Charlotte History Festival 📚

festivalCentral Piedmont Community College is proud to be part of the exciting Charlotte History Festival, hosted by Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation, celebrating its 50th anniversary. This special event promises a journey through Charlotte’s vibrant history, featuring local artists, live music, delectable food and beverages, and much more. Join us at Independence Park for an educational and fun-filled day!

Festival Details:

  • Date: Sat., Apr. 20, 2024
  • Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Location: Independence Park, 300 Hawthorne Lane, Charlotte, NC 28204
  • Admission: Free for all attendees

Why Attend?

  • Educational Programming: In collaboration with the Trail of History and various local partners, including Central Piedmont, the festival offers a rich array of history programming and education.
  • Community Outreach: Engage with community outreach organizations and learn more about Charlotte’s local initiatives and projects.
  • Cultural Experience: Enjoy live performances by local artists and musicians, adding a lively ambiance to the historical exploration.
  • Food and Beverages: Savor delicious local cuisine and refreshing beverages as you stroll through the festival.

Highlights:

  • Local History: Discover the stories and milestones that shaped Charlotte, brought to life by historians and local experts.
  • Art and Music: Experience Charlotte’s cultural vibrancy through live music performances and art displays.
  • Community Engagement: Connect with fellow community members and organizations in a celebration of local heritage and pride.

For more information about the Charlotte History Festival, please visit the Charlotte Trail of History.

🎭 Central Piedmont Theatre Welcomes You to William Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” 🌟

Twelfth Night logoOne of William Shakespeare’s most celebrated comedies, “Twelfth Night” is a tale of mistaken identity, love, and the revelry of the festive season.

The play unfolds when a young woman named Viola washes up on the shores of far-off Illyric. Believing her twin brother Sebastian perished in the wreck, Viola disguises herself as a man named Cesario to navigate the unfamiliar land. Employed by Duke Orsino, Viola (now Cesario) is charged with communicating Orsino’s attempts to woo the Countess Olivia.

However, a twist ensues when Olivia, captivated by Cesario’s charm, falls in love with the disguised Viola. The plot thickens as Viola herself is smitten with Orsino, creating a triangle of unrequited love.

College and high school students are admitted free with a student ID at the door.

Adults can buy one ticket and get one free for the performance on Thursday, May 2.

DATES
Friday, April 26, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, April 27, 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, April 28, 2:30 p.m.
Thursday, May 2, 7:30 p.m.
Friday, May 3, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 4, 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 5, 2:30 p.m.

TICKETS

New Apparel Items Available in the Bookstore!

bookstoreLooking to update your wardrobe with some campus flair? The Central Piedmont Bookstore has broadened its horizons, offering an expanded line of “online only” items. From casual T-shirts to professional attire, there’s something for everyone:

  • Wide Selection: Explore a variety of new apparel choices designed to suit any style or occasion.
  • Online Convenience: Access our extended collection with ease online. Ready to browse? Scan the QR code below or visit Central Piedmont Bookstore Apparel to discover your next favorite piece.

🏷️ End of Year Clearance Sale!

As we transition between seasons, the Central Piedmont Bookstore is rolling out incredible savings:

  • Apparel Clearance: Swing by any of our Bookstore locations (Central, Cato, and Levine campuses) or shop online to snag select clothing items at discounted prices.
  • Technology Sale: Enjoy up to 75% off original prices on select technology items for a limited time. Don’t miss out on these unbeatable deals.

For more information on the clearance sale and to grab your must-have items, visit Central Piedmont Bookstore Clearance.

🎭 Dance Theatre Unveils “Springing Forward: Levels and Locomotion” 🌟

theater mirrorCentral Piedmont Community College’s esteemed Dance Theatre presents its latest production, “Springing Forward: Levels and Locomotion.” This compelling showcase features the innovative choreography of faculty members Clay Daniel and Tracie Chan alongside the remarkable talents of alum and frequent guest artist Javier Gonzalez.

Event Highlights:

  • Choreography Excellence: Enjoy the creative compositions by Clay Daniel, Tracie Chan, and Javier Gonzalez, offering a vibrant exploration of dance.
  • Premiere Piece: Clay Daniel debuts his new work, “Impericum,” accompanied by an original score from Nathan Hudson, a member of Central Piedmont’s music faculty.
  • Student Engagement: Central Piedmont students are warmly invited to attend free of charge, presenting a valid student ID.

Performance Details:

  • Dates:
    • Wed., Apr. 24, 2024, at noon
    • Thur., Apr. 25, 2024, at noon
    • Fri., Apr. 26, 2024, at noon
  • Location: Central Campus, Overcash Building, Halton Theater
  • Admission: Free for Central Piedmont students with a valid student ID

Why You Should Attend:

  • Support Local Talent: Witness Central Piedmont’s students and faculty’s exceptional abilities and contributions from distinguished alumni.
  • Cultural Enrichment: “Springing Forward: Levels and Locomotion” promises an enriching cultural experience, showcasing the depth and diversity of contemporary dance.
  • Community Connection: Engage with the vibrant Central Piedmont arts community, fostering connections and celebrating collective creativity.

🎟️ Get Your Tickets Now! Don’t miss this captivating dance performance at the Halton Theater.

🎨 The 2024 Annual Juried Student Art Show 🖌️

The Visual Arts Department proudly unveiled the much-anticipated 2024 Annual Juried Student Art Show. This event celebrates our students’ creativity and hard work, highlighting achievements in a broad spectrum of artistic disciplines. Here’s everything you need to know:

art exhibit

  • Exhibition Dates: April 1 – May 10
  • Awards Ceremony and Reception: Fri., Apr. 12, 5 – 7 p.m.
  • Location: Central Campus, Parr Center Theater, Ground Floor 0110, 1201 Elizabeth Ave, Charlotte, NC 28204

🌟 Highlights of the Event:

  • Diverse Artistic Disciplines: Featuring student works in ceramics, 2D and 3D design, drawing, jewelry, painting, photography, printmaking, and sculpture.
  • Awards and Recognition: Students will receive various awards, including the prestigious Presidential Purchase Award, Foundation Purchase Award, and first, second, and third-place awards, among others.
  • Special Juror: This year’s show is juried by Marge Loudon Moody, Professor Emerita of Winthrop University, a celebrated artist with works in private and public collections globally.

Why You Should Attend:

  • Celebrate Student Achievement: Witness the incredible talent of Central Piedmont’s Visual Arts students and celebrate their dedication and hard work.
  • Be Inspired: The show is a testament to the creativity and innovation thriving within the college’s Visual Arts Department.
  • Connect with the Arts Community: Engage with artists, students, and art lovers from Central Piedmont and beyond.

The Annual Juried Student Art Show is not just an exhibition; it’s a celebration of artistic pursuit, creativity, and the vibrant community at Central Piedmont.

Your Invited to the Student Leadership Series 📈🎤

Greg Efthimiou

Join Business and Accounting for an engaging session of our Student Leadership Series, dedicated to students eager to explore the realms of business, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Here are the details you don’t want to miss:

  • Date: Wed., Apr. 17
  • Time: 2 p.m.
  • Location: Central Campus, Zeiss Building, Room 1106
  • Special Guest Speaker: Greg Efthimiou, Vice President of Public Relations at GoDaddy
  • Event Topic: Entrepreneurship – Turning Strengths and Passions into a Fulfilling Career

🌟 Why Attend? This is a golden opportunity to hear from a seasoned professional about transforming your innate strengths and passions into a successful and fulfilling career. Greg Efthimiou brings a wealth of knowledge and insights from the dynamic world of public relations and entrepreneurship.

📌 Register Today! Don’t miss out on this transformative experience.

Sarah Blair – Embracing a Passion for Art

Sarah BlairSarah Blair, a student from Valencia, California, found their calling in Simulation and Game Development at Central Piedmont.🕹️ After high school, faced with mental health challenges, Sarah chose Central Piedmont for its local, supportive environment. Their journey wasn’t smooth, but Sarah was determined to return to college in 2020 to seek a community to help her find her way.

Transitioning from a potential veterinary career to embracing a passion for art and technology, Sarah is now the President of Diversity in Games. She is engaged in clubs like IGDA Academic and Delta Alpha Pi, showcasing leadership and advocacy for inclusivity in gaming.🤩 “I knew I loved video games and animation,” Sarah says, “and when I heard about the SGD department, I was hooked!”

Facing adversity, including time in a community shelter, Sarah found resilience and hope in their studies. “Being a student at Central Piedmont was my hope for a better future,” they share, highlighting the role education played in their recovery and self-discovery.⭐

With aspirations to work in game writing and 3D modeling, Sarah aims to challenge industry norms and advocate for mental health awareness and disability rights. “I want to push social standards for people like me,” they assert! 🧠 🎮

Sarah’s advice to future students is poignant: “Central Piedmont has so much to offer, but you have to seek it out. Don’t be afraid to try new things.” Besides academics, Sarah pursues hobbies like language learning and embroidery, enriching their skill set and preparing for a multifaceted career.💫

🎹 Experience the Musical Genius of Matthew Whitaker 🌟

Get ready! The Parr Arts & Humanities Series is thrilled to present an evening with Matthew Whitaker, a prodigious talent in the world of jazz, on April 11, 2024, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. This event is designed to enrich and inspire and is to be noticed.

About Matthew Whitaker

  • Prodigy Turned Professional: Born in 2001 in Hackensack, NJ, Matthew Whitaker has dazzled the world with his musical prowess from a young age. At just 15, he became the youngest musician, named a Yamaha Artist, and joined an elite group of jazz pianists.
  • Educated in Excellence: Whitaker’s foundation in music is solid, having studied classical piano and drums at The Filomen M. D’Agostino Greenberg Music School in NYC. His education continued at The Harlem School of the Arts and through participation in the Jazz House Big Band and the Organ Messengers at Jazz House Kids in Montclair, NJ.
  • A Juilliard Graduate: His commitment to his craft led him to graduate from the BA Jazz Studies program at Juilliard in New York City in May 2023, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his career.

Event Details

  • Date & Time: April 11, 2024, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Location: The theater in the Parr Center at Central Piedmont Community College.
  • Ticket Prices: Absolutely FREE for students! Take advantage of this incredible opportunity to witness a jazz virtuoso live in action.

Don’t Miss Out!

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening with Matthew Whitaker, where you’ll experience the power of music to move and inspire. This is a golden opportunity for Central Piedmont students to immerse themselves in the richness of the arts and humanities, courtesy of the Parr Arts & Humanities Series.

🎶 Reserve your spot now and prepare to be amazed by the musical mastery of Matthew Whitaker! 🎶