📢 No classes on Mon., Sept. 1 & Tue., Sept. 2

Parr Center

Take a breather! Central Piedmont will pause classes for the Labor Day holiday and a professional development day for faculty and staff. 

Heads up: While there are no classes, some student services may still be available on Sept. 2 — check with your campus for details. Classes resume on Wed., Sept. 3 

Enjoy the long weekend! ✨ 

🏨 Central Piedmont launches new hospitality workforce training program

Man standing at desk speaking to customer

JumpSTART – a new 12-week hospitality training program – is coming to Central Piedmont this fall to help meet the rising demand for talent in Charlotte’s hotel and lodging industry. 

Why it matters: The hospitality sector in Charlotte is booming, and employers are looking for job-ready talent. JumpSTART was created in direct response to feedback from local hospitality leaders and provides students with industry-recognized certifications, hands-on experience, and career-building opportunities. 

📅 Program details 

  • Runs Mon., Oct. 20 – Thu., Jan. 29 
  • Includes classroom instruction, hands-on learning, a hotel externship, and a job fair 
  • Prepares you for real-world hospitality careers with certifications and skills employers want 

🤝 Building industry connections 

The hospitality team at Central Piedmont recently joined the Charlotte Hospitality and Tourism Alliance’s General Sales Meeting at the Charlotte Convention Center. 

  • Hosted an info table to promote JumpSTART and connect with local employers 
  • Shared how the program strengthens the hospitality workforce pipeline 
  • Boosted community and employer partnerships through training and collaboration 

📩 Want in? 

To learn more or apply, contact: 

🎨 Calling all artists: Exhibit your work at Central Piedmont

student painting

What’s happening: 
The Central Piedmont art galleries are now accepting submissions for upcoming exhibitions. 

Why it matters: 
This is a chance for emerging and established artists to showcase their work in a professional gallery setting on campus. 

Who can apply: 
Open to all artists — students, faculty, staff, and the wider community. 

Details: 

  • 📍 Location: Overcash Center, Central Campus 
  • 📅 Deadline to submit: Fri., Sept. 27 
  • 🖼️ Accepted work: All mediums welcome — painting, sculpture, digital, and more

The big picture: 
Selected artists will have the opportunity to be featured in a solo or group exhibition during the 2025–26 gallery season. Apply here!

Start Something New: Launch Your Own Student Group! 🎉

students sitting in grass

Got a passion, idea, or interest that’s not yet on campus? Now is your time to bring it to life. The New Student Group Application is officially open at Central Piedmont! 

💡 Whether you are: 

  • Building community 
  • Advocating for a cause 
  • Creating space for fun and connection 

…you’ll have full support to get started! 

What to know: 

  • Applications are open now through Mar. 2026
  • 🔗 Apply here 

What’s next:
Once you apply, a member of the Student Government Association (SGA) will reach out to: 

  • Schedule an official hearing 
  • Review your proposal 
  • Guide you through the next steps 

✨ Turn your idea into a student group where others can connect, collaborate, and thrive! 

🎨 Four New Art Exhibitions Open Across Central Piedmont Campuses

Painting Sonoma Sunset, 16x20 encaustic on panel - featured in Terri Yacovelli Exhibition on Levine Campus

Central Piedmont is showcasing a fresh wave of creativity this fall, with four unique exhibitions now open to the campus community. From thought-provoking history to Charlotte-inspired sketches, there’s something for everyone to explore. 

What’s new: 

Levine CampusTerri Yacovelli Exhibition 

  • A series of encaustic paintings that reimagine landscapes as fluid, internal spaces shaped by memory, perception, and emotion. 
  • Expect abstraction, layered textures, and bold color that invite contemplation. 

Central Campus, Dove Gallery: “The Unscene South” by Charles Eady 

  • A powerful exploration of Black life in the Antebellum South. 
  • Challenges traditional narratives and offers fresh perspectives on history. 

Central Campus, North Classroom: “A Love Letter from Charlotte” by Mike Daikubara 

  • Features 60 on-location sketches capturing Charlotte’s landmarks, hidden corners, and evolving cityscape. 
  • Daikubara, an artist and educator, has been sketching daily since 2000. 

Levine Campus – New 3D Art Exhibition Open 

  • A collaborative 3D art exhibition, featuring work from Jackie Radford and Patricia Raible, exploring the book form as artistic expression. 
  • Investigates how structure influences content and vice versa, blending words, visuals, and materials. 

Why it matters: ️ These exhibitions highlight both local talent and broader cultural narratives, giving students, faculty, and the community a chance to engage with art that sparks reflection, dialogue, and inspiration. 

Be sure to stop by the galleries this semester and experience the creativity happening right here on campus. 

🎯 Teen Central: Life Skills for Future Success

teen central students

Central Piedmont’s Teen Central program is designed for 8th–12th graders ready to learn real-world skills in a fun, engaging way. 


💡 Why it matters 

Our courses, led by expert instructors, focus on youth enrichment — building confidence, creativity, and practical know-how. 


📚 What to expect 

  • Custom-designed classes tailored for teens 
  • Hands-on learning in a supportive environment 
  • New skills for life, school, and beyond 
  • Fun, interactive sessions every step of the way 

Learn more about upcoming programs here. 

🚀 Boost Your Path to Graduation (and Save Big)

students at graduation

Graduation just got closer (and less expensive!) thanks to the NC Community Colleges’ Boost Program — an accelerated college-to-career track designed to help you finish school faster, spend less, and start earning sooner. 


Why it matters 

Boost removes barriers so you can graduate with less debt, less stress, and more support. 


💥 What you get 

  • Lower tuition 🎓 – cut down your college expenses 
  • Free or reduced-cost textbooks 📚 – we’ll cover some or all your book costs 
  • $200 stipend every two months 💵 – just for meeting program milestones 
  • Dedicated success coach 🙌 – stay on track and graduate with confidence 
  • Extra perks to keep you motivated 

Who’s eligible? 

  • NC residents who qualify for in-state tuition 
  • Students receiving a Pell Grant or Next NC Scholarship 
  • Completed 24 or fewer credits in current program 
  • Enrolled in an eligible program of study

Ready to level up? 

Save money, move faster, and launch your career with Boost.
👉 Learn more + fill out the Student Interest Form today! 

🍂 Fall Into Beauty

student giving hair cut in cosmetology school

Central Piedmont’s Cosmetology and Natural Hair Care programs are here to help you glow into sweater weather with seasonal services, tips, and treatments. 


Reset your routine 

Summer can dry out your skin, fade your hair, and wear down your self-care habits. Fall is the perfect time to refresh with: 

  • Hydrating facials  
  • Rich, fall hair colors + gloss treatments  
  • Exfoliating skin + hand scrubs  
  • Brow and lash shaping or tinting  
  • Fall-toned manicures  

Seasonal specials 

Book early—appointments fill fast! 

  • Fall Refresh Package – $99
    Hydrating facial, hot oil scalp massage, and brow shaping
    ($140 value – book by Tue, Oct. 15) 
  • Enzyme Facial – $75
    A limited-edition antioxidant treatment with serious fall vibes 
  • Deep Conditioning Blowout – $45
    Smooth, shiny hair to take you from class to cozy 

Add-on upgrades 

  • Warm Paraffin Hand Treatment – $10 
  • Hot Oil Scalp Massage – $15 
  • Pumpkin Spice Latte Foot Soak – $20  

Book now!

Call 704-330-5455 or email Kathy Pate or Christian Rogers to schedule your appointment. Additional information can be found here.


Get pampered, stay polished, and fall into beauty this season! 🍂💆‍♀️💅 

🌍 Fall 2025 WACC Luncheon Series — Free Seats Available!

two people at table with global flags

🌍 Fall 2025 WACC Luncheon Series — Free Seats Available! 

What’s happening: The Center for Global Engagement invites Central Piedmont students and employees to attend the World Affairs Council (WACC) Speaker Series Luncheons — for free! 🌎🍽️ 

📍 Most events will be held at Hilton Charlotte Uptown (note: parking not validated) 

🎟️ Only 8 seats per eventregistration through the Center for Global Engagement is required! 


Tue., Aug. 26 


Thu., Sep. 4 


Thu., Oct. 30 


Tue., Nov. 4 


Thu., Nov. 6 


✅ How to Register 

  • Register through the Center for Global Engagement 
  • Watch for a confirmation email from global.learning@cpcc.edu 
  • Confirm your seat ASAP to secure your spot! 

Why it matters: These events offer an incredible chance to network with global leaders, explore pressing global issues, and gain real-world insight — all over lunch. 🌐👥💬 

🗳️ Apply now for Student Government Association Senator

two female students at table

Are you ready to make a difference on campus? The Student Government Association (SGA) is now accepting applications for Senator positions at each campus.

  • Senators represent their home campus and advocate for meaningful change.
  • This is your chance to shape student life and work directly with campus leaders.

Why serve as an SGA Senator?
✅ Represent the student voice on important issues
✅ Collaborate with leaders and fellow students
✅ Build leadership and communication skills
✅ Make a lasting impact on campus

🗓 Deadline: Fri, Aug. 29, 5 p.m.
🔗 Apply here
📧 Questions? Email Katherine Breitenfeld – katherine.breitenfeld@cpcc.edu

We look forward to reviewing your application!

🎉 Applications Open for Campus Activities Board

students playing yard games

What’s new: The Campus Activities Board (CAB), Central Campus, is now accepting applications for the 2025–26 team.

  • CAB is a student-led organization that plans and hosts events to bring the campus community together.
  • Open to students interested in event planning, marketing, leadership development, or simply getting more involved.

Why join CAB?
✅ Build leadership and teamwork skills
✅ Create fun, engaging campus events
✅ Connect with other passionate students
✅ Make a lasting impact on campus life

🗓 Deadline: Fri, Aug. 29, 5 p.m.
🔗 Apply here
📧 Questions? Email Katherine Breitenfeld – katherine.breitenfeld@cpcc.edu

💡 Don’t wait: Be part of the team that makes campus life happen.

Feel It to Heal It: Feelings Wheel Workshop 

student sitting and speaking to counselor

📅  Tue, Sept. 10 | 12 p.m.–2 p.m.
📍Central Campus, Parr Center, Room 1050  

Why it matters: Understanding and naming your emotions can be a game-changer for your mental health, relationships, and confidence. This workshop from Counseling Services turns emotional awareness into a practical skill — and a superpower. 

What you’ll do: 

  • Learn how emotional awareness can improve focus, relationships, and self-confidence 
  • Take part in a creative activity to express your feelings and manage stress 
  • Explore self-regulation strategies you can use anytime — before a test, during tough moments, or when life feels overwhelming 

The big picture: This isn’t another sit-and-listen lecture — it’s interactive, creative, and centered on you. 

Snacks will be provided. 🥨 

🚗 Parking Reminder

aerial footage of parking lot

Students have until Fri., Sept. 26 to pick up their student parking decal and college ID — giving you four full weeks to get settled.

What to know:
While “No Permit” violations won’t be enforced until that date, all other parking rules remain in effect:

  • 4-hour visitor parking limits will be enforced
  • 🚫 No parking areas are still off-limits
  • 🅿️ Reserved parking spaces are not for general use
  • Handicap-accessible parking is for permitted vehicles only

👉 Avoid a ticket by following posted signs and picking up your decal before Sept. 26!

📅 Need Back-to-School Help? We’ve Got You!

students outside at fair

On-Campus Support Available Sat., Aug. 16 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Navigators, Advisors & ITS will be on all campuses to assist you

💰 Financial Aid Help Available at:

  • Central Campus
  • Cato Campus
  • Harper Campus
  • Levine Campus
  • Merancas Campus

💳 Cashiering Services Available at:

  • Central Campus
  • Cato Campus
  • Levine Campus

Pop-up information tables will be set up at all six campuses during the first few days of fall classes. Look for employees wearing name tag and “Ask Me” buttons if you need help finding your classes or answering general questions.

Information Tables will be available on Monday and Tuesday, August 18-19, from 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m., and on Wednesday, August 20, from 5-6 p.m.

Navigators are at Welcome Centers year-round, and are available to help.


💻 Tech Troubles? ITS Has You Covered

The ITS Service Desk is here to help with:

  • 🔐 Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
  • 📧 Email, MyCollege, and Brightspace access

🧰 Get Help:

  • Submit a request, chat live, or find how-to guides via the client portal
  • Call: 704.330.5000 (note: high call volume = slower help)

📍 In-person ITS Help:

Central Campus – 2nd Floor, Parr Center

Other campuses – Temporary support tables open Thu., Aug. 14 – Fri., Aug. 22, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (after 1 p.m. on Wed., Aug. 13)

  • Levine Campus – Levine I Lobby
  • Cato Campus – Cato I Lobby
  • Merancas Campus – Claytor Lobby
  • Harris Campus – Harris I Lobby
  • Harper Campus – Harper IV, 2nd Floor Lobby

🖊️ Need Help Registering for Classes?

You’re not alone! Registration help is available in person and online from Mon., Aug. 4 – Tue., Aug. 19.

💡 Pro tip: Join the queue ahead of time — click here to join ✔️

🍴 Taste the World with Central Piedmont’s Line Cooking Class

three people in a food truck

Central Piedmont’s culinary students are serving up international dishes during the Line Cooking Class (a.k.a. the Food Truck Class) — and you’re invited to sample the goods for free!

👨‍🍳 Led by: Instructor A. Cooper
📍 Location: In front of the North Classroom Building, Central Campus
🕠 Time: 5:30–6:30 p.m. (or until samples run out!)

📅 Sample Days:

  • Tue., Aug. 12 & Thu., Aug. 14
  • Tue., Aug. 19 & Thu., Aug. 21
  • Tue., Aug. 26 & Thu., Aug. 28
  • Wed., Sept. 3

🍳 What to Expect:

  • A rotating menu inspired by global cuisines
  • Dishes from breakfast to dinner
  • Student-made, chef-approved samples
  • Real-time cooking & service experience

💡 Why It Matters:
Your participation gives culinary students hands-on experience in prepping, cooking to order, and managing food service — from prep to plate.

🥄 Come hungry, leave inspired — and support your fellow Central Piedmont students one bite at a time!

📚 Campus Stores: More Than Just Books

girl checking out at campus store

Central Piedmont Campus Stores are here to support students with more than textbooks — think coffee, snacks, school supplies, and more! ☕📓🍫

What You Need to Know

  • Shop in-store or online — serving Central Piedmont and the greater Charlotte community

  • Campus Stores located at:
    • Central Campus
    • Cato Campus
    • Levine Campus
  • Smart lockers available for pickup at:
    • Harris Campus
    • Harper Campus
    • Merancas Campus
  • 💵 Use your financial aid in-store

  • 📦 Free shipping on orders over $50

🕒 Fall Store Hours

  • Aug. 4 – Aug. 15
    • Mon. – Fri.: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Sat., Aug. 16
    • Central & Levine Campus: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Week of Aug. 18
    • Central Campus:
      • Mon. – Thu.: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
      • Fri.: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    • Cato Campus:
      • Mon. – Fri.: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    • Levine Campus:
      • Mon. – Thu.: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
      • Fri.: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Sat., Aug. 23
    • Central Campus only: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Mon., Aug. 25 – End of Semester
    • Mon. – Fri.: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Grab a coffee, pick up your books, and get set for fall! Need more info? Visit the Campus Stores website or stop by your nearest location.

☕️ August Eats & Sips at Central Piedmont

catalyst coffee bar image

Starting Mon., Aug. 11
Delicious new specials are dropping across campus this month — here’s what’s on the menu! 🍤🍫

📍Central Campus, Parr Center, Hen & Steer

  • Shrimp Po’Boy – $8.99
  • Make it a combo – Add fries and a fountain drink for $3.99

📍 All Campus Locations, Catalyst Coffee Bar

  • Raspberry White Chocolate Mocha Frappe (12 oz.) – $4.75
  • Raspberry White Chocolate Crème Frappe (12 oz., coffee-free) – $4.75

🕒 Available during regular cafe hours — swing by and treat yourself!

📚 What’s New at the Library?

Girl looking at books in library

Central Piedmont’s library just dropped new arrivals — and they’re worth checking out. Whether you’re into page-turners, documentaries, or e-books, there’s something fresh waiting for you.

🔗 Browse the latest books, videos, and e-resources

The library’s “New Titles” list makes it easy to:

  • 🔍 Discover new study resources
  • 🎥 Stream documentaries and educational films
  • 📖 Explore fiction and non-fiction books
  • 💻 Access digital materials anytime, anywhere

Take a look and get inspired for your next paper, project, or break-time read!

43 students complete Honeywell STEM Prep Program 🎉

group photo of Honeywell STEM

This summer, 43 high school students wrapped up the Honeywell STEM Academy’s STEM Prep Program at Central Piedmont — a hands-on, college-readiness experience focused on science, technology, engineering, and math.

🧠 Why it matters:
This non-curriculum program gave 10th, 11th, and 12th graders a head start on college-level STEM courses — combining math with a second class based on their personal interests.

💡 Program highlights:

  • Every student took a math course + one STEM course of their choice
  • Many of the 12th graders plan to enroll full time at Central Piedmont, while 10th and 11th graders will join as dual enrollment students

🎓 A big thank-you to our faculty & mentors:

  • Instructors: Dr. Carl Arrington, Samantha Carter, Tony Stanford, Quillie Hunt, and Lauren Burgess
  • Student Peer Mentors: Nicholas Wind McJetters, Justin Perez, Robert Winecoff, Amariah Robinson, and Mariam Idris

🙌 Special shoutout to program leader Mrs. Amber Griffin and coordinator Shenequa Hayes, whose leadership made it all happen!

🔬 Research spotlight:

Two Honeywell STEM Academy Scholars were selected for the UNC Charlotte Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU), hosted by the College of Computing and Informatics:

  • Yao Djaka: Analyzing Student Perceptions of Feedback in Monitoring Academic Progress
  • Kebron Mamo: Hydroponic System for Real-Time Monitoring and Early Disease Detection

📅 Both students presented standout research posters on Fri., Jul. 25 — way to go! 👏

🎉 Another Successful Year in the Summer Bridge Program!

large student group - summer bridge program

What’s happening: Central Piedmont wrapped up another amazing Summer Bridge Program — a dynamic experience filled with growth, learning, and real connections. 🌟

Why it matters: Summer Bridge helps new students build confidence, make friends, and get a jumpstart on college life before the fall semester begins.

Highlights:

  • 🤝 Students took part in team-building exercises designed to boost collaboration, communication, and trust
  • 💬 Participants supported one another while building essential teamwork and leadership skills
  • 📸 Photos captured moments of energy, laughter, and determination!

Shoutout to:
👏 All the incredible staff and departments who brought this program to life — your work makes a difference!

Stay tuned for details on how to get involved in next year’s program! 🎓