Student Excellence Convocation Spotlights Success
Taking college courses can be tough, but add raising children, working, and overcoming language or physical handicap barriers to the equation and the challenges are magnified. On Sunday, April 27, Central Piedmont Community College will honor 56 outstanding students who have set high expectations and excelled in their program area as part of the college’s 14th annual Student Excellence Convocation. The event will begin at 4:30 p.m. in the Halton Theater (Central Campus – Academic and Performing Arts Center – corner of Kings Drive and Elizabeth Avenue). Norman A. Mitchell, Sr., Mecklenburg County Commissioner, will serve as the keynote speaker for the event.
One student from each curriculum program area was nominated by a faculty member for this award. Criteria for nomination included at least a 3.0 grade point average, as well as outstanding accomplishments within the program of study and in the community. On Sunday, the students will be honored with a plaque in front of family members, peers and college staff.
Below is a list of the 2008 outstanding students and some of their accomplishments.
”At CPCC, we take pride in the support we offer students and the resources we provide to help them become successful,” states Dr. Tony Zeiss, president of CPCC. “Our Student Excellence Convocation is a way to spotlight the top quality students we educate each and every day.”
56 OUTSTANDING STUDENTS For 2008 Student Excellence Convocation Sherry Anton - Paralegal Technology Sherry aspires to practice as a paralegal in litigation. She is listed on the President's list and is active in the Metrolina Paralegal Association. Sherry's instructor describes her as insightful and an outstanding student. Lily Berhe - Cardiovascular Technology Lily is active in her church and community. Her instructor says that Lily has embraced all aspects of her program and excels in the clinical setting. Her career goal is to become registered in echocardiography. Rebecca Black - Advertising and Graphic Design Rebecca demonstrates leadership in her classes and among her peers. She has helped to form a new student service club in the Advertising and Design program. Her career goal is to hold a leadership role in a creative company. Shirley Brewer - Electronics Engineering Technology Shirley participates in Phi Theta Kappa activities and the CROP walk. She is a recipient of the Women in Electronics scholarship. Her career objective is to design, construct and install electrical and electronic systems. David Brown - Heavy Equipment and Transport Technology Diploma David is described by his instructor as a strong asset for any employer. His career objective is to progress at his place of employment which he describes as his "dream job". When David is not working or studying, he volunteers at Goodwill. Cynthia Buther - Medical Laboratory Technology Cynthia served as a mentor at Phillip O. Berry High School. She is a recipient of the NC Society for Clinical Laboratory Science Student scholarship. Cynthia Carroll- Developmental Disabilities Cindy pursued her degree while working full-time and raising a family. She volunteers with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg school system and aspires to earn her bachelor's degree. Lee Causey - Mechanical Engineering Lee would like to use his military background and education to work in the aerospace industry. He aspires to become an inventor. His instructor describes him as a professional and a class leader. Jared Chavis - Heavy Equipment and Transport Technology Diploma Jared demonstrates exceptional skills in the classroom. His career goal is to progress in his company to a lead foreman position. Jared spends his free time working with his church and the Boy Scouts. Jennifer Collins - Air Condition, Heating, and Refrigeration Jennifer is the HVAC Club president and served last year as the club's treasurer. She is a business owner and a member of Charlotte Juniors. Jennifer's goal is to obtain degrees and state licenses in HVAC and Electrical/Electronics to complement her real estate and contract licenses. Jeff Crawfis - Construction Management Jeff is a member of Phi Theta Kappa. His instructor says that Jeff has a positive attitude and drive to succeed in his career. He aspires to become a construction manager and apply what he has learned. Shirley Dalrmyple - Health Information Technology While caring for her family, Shirley successfully manages to be on the Dean's list. She is a member of the NC Trauma Registrar's Organization and a student member of the American Health Information Management Association. Her career goal is to become a trauma registrar at Carolinas Medical Center. Kristin Davis - Medical Office Administration Kristin aspires to become a medical office administrator. She wants to participate in research and work as a national advocate. Kristin is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, a scholarship recipient, and a member of the Advisory Board for Medical Office Administration. Andrew Deese - Manufacturing Technology According to Andrew's instructor, he always leads his class and has been one of the top apprenticeship 2000 students. His career goal is to master welding and fabricating. Steven Dirscherl - Turfgrass Management Technology Steven aspires to obtain a sports field management position. He serves as a deacon in his church. Steven's instructor describes him as having a positive attitude and always willing to learn. Jesse Ellis - Welding Technology Jesse wants to pursue welding in the military while continuing his education. He was recently promoted to Specialist 4 in the Army. Jesse recently volunteered community service to weld and repair a local high school's band podiums. Gil Ezring - Associate in Fine Arts Gil is an active member of Phi Theta Kappa. He teaches Hebrew and serves meals to the homeless. He aspires to perform and teach music. Jonathan Flores - Associate in Arts (General Education) Jonathan has overcome physical and social challenges to soon become the first in his family to graduate from college. His educational goal is to attend the University of Miami as a Business Finance Major. He is listed on the National Deans list and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa. Rebecca Freiert - Paralegal Technology Diploma Rebecca's instructor describes her as one of the hardest working students in the program. She aspires to become a paralegal in the area of civil litigation. Rebecca is on the Presidents list. Jimmy Gerald - Machining Technology Diploma Jimmy wants to pursue a career in fabrication and mold making for manufacturing and industrial uses. He is highly regarded by his instructor and peers. Rachael Gordon-Wright - Associate in Science (Mathematics) Rachael is president of CPCC's Mu Alpha Theta, a mathematics honor society, a member of Phi Theta Kappa, and is on the Presidents list. She aspires to become a college professor. Patricia Haney - Human Services Technology Patricia is described by her instructor as being strong, intelligent and a proactive advocate for children of the Guardian Ad Litem program. Her career goal is to become the director of a Human Service organization. Frances Hayden - Accounting Frances returned to college after being downsized from her job of 20 years. She obtained a full-time job in accounting. Frances is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, plans to earn a bachelors degree in Accounting, and become a Certified Public Accountant. Lauren Holland - Dental Assisting Diploma Lauren's instructor describes her as a role model for her classmates because of the time and energy that she dedicates to others. Her career objective is to pursue a bachelor's degree and to become a dental office manager. Lauren has been on the Dean's list for three consecutive semesters. Harriett Hollingsworth - Geospatial Technology Harriett plans to pursue a future in Geospatial technology. She volunteers in the Interpreter Education program as a mentor and tutor. She is described by her instructors as demonstrating great leadership qualities. Kerri Jordan - Architectural Technology Kerri is on the President's list and a member of Phi Theta Kappa. She is a member of the College's American Institute of Architecture Students and volunteers with the Waxhaw Athletic Association. According to her instructor, she often willingly assists her fellow students. Eugene Kaplan - Human Services Substance Abuse Concentration Despite several obstacles, Eugene has demonstrated academic successes. He has served as Vice President and President of the College's Student Human Services Club. Eugene's instructor describes him as a joy to teach and an inspiration to know. Thomas Kirby - Surveying Technology Thomas attended classes while working full-time and caring for his family. His career goal is to become a registered professional land surveyor. Casandra LaRock - Dental Hygiene Casandra's instructor said she is a great asset to the field of dental hygiene. She is a volunteer for Big Shot Saturdays and Cornerstone Baptist Dental Bus Ministry. Casandra's career goal is to work in general practice before moving into a periodontal practice. Jimmy Lefevere - Associate in Arts (General Education) Jimmy's goal is to become a successful business owner in the information system field. He volunteers in the community assisting in animal control efforts with the local police. Jimmy's instructor describes him as bright and talented. Lori LeRoy - Interpreter Education Lori is an officer of the Interpreter Training Club. She helped organize parties for over 250 attendees for the deaf community. Lori's career goal is to become an interpreter. Bryan Light - Automotive Systems Technology Bryan has achieved numerous Chrysler Factory certifications. His career objective is to become a Master Certified Chrysler technician. His instructor says that Bryan goes above and beyond the call of duty at school and work. Gerald Marion - Electrical/Electronics Technology Gerald's focus is on establishing his own business dealing with contracting electrical installation and maintenance. He is considered a leader among his peers and instructors. He gives 100% effort in the classroom. Gary Masker - Computer and Electrical Engineering Technology Gary is pursuing a degree in Computer Engineering and Electrical Technology. He is on the President's list and has aspirations to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering. His instructor describes him as persistent and very thorough in his work. Serge Masoso - Computer Information Technology Serge manages work and school while caring for his family. His goal is to establish a career in the Information Technology field. Serge's instructor describes him as very talented, extremely focused, and possessing a high work ethic. Elizabeth McCorkill - Simulation and Game Development Liz's career aspirations include being a successful leader and executive in the simulation game development industry. She is the president of the Association for Computing Machinery and mentor to her classmates. Michele McNish - Respiratory Therapy Michele works full-time as an EMT-Paramedic and is a BLS instructor for the American Heart Association. She aspires to earn her NC Respiratory Care Practitioner License. Kelly Medlin - Cytotechnology Kelly's goals are to earn a bachelor's degree and begin a career in Cytotechnology. According to her instructor, she approaches learning with a positive attitude and willingness to meet challenges. Kelly is well respected among her peers. Sandra Melo Diaz - Early Childhood Education Sandra is interested in teaching children and working with families. She has participated in the Early Childhood Club and recently completed her co-op experience working with children who do not speak English. Her willingness to translate for the children, the staff, and the families of this pre-K program made her a valuable asset. Aurora Mendoza - Autobody Repair Diploma Aurora is the first female to enter the Auto Body program at CPCC. She works and attends school full-time and was recently chosen as one of two CPCC students to participate in the Student Automotive Engineering (SAE) Race Car project. Alex Midgett - Computer Science Alex tutors other students in physics courses. His educational goal is to earn a 4-year degree in computer science. Alex is interested in using computers to advance research in the fields of engineering, medicine, and social issues. Christy Napier - Nursing, Associate Degree Christy has completed a service-learning project in pediatrics and is involved in the Association of Nursing Students. She aspires to a career in obstetrics and is an advocate for women's health. Gary Newman - Electrical Engineering Technology Gary volunteers his time to community service with the Friends of the Friendless organization. He has been on the President's list. Gary plans to become an electromechanical technician. Bradley Nichols - Criminal Justice Technology After earning a motorsport degree and working in NASCAR, Bradley decided to pursue a lifelong dream of working in law enforcement. He is a dedicated student and focused on becoming a State Trooper with the NC State Highway Patrol. Andrew Pfisterer - Machining Technology Andrew volunteers his time helping to build a race car. He is a highly motivated student who is always willing to go the extra mile, according to his instructor. Andrew's career plan is to work with CAD and CAM systems in the manufacturing industry. Anh Phan - Associate in Science Anh recently participated in a student Math League Competition. He volunteers as a chemistry tutor and as laboratory assistant. Anh's career goal is to become a medical doctor. Nancy Pinkerton - Culinary Technology Nancy has dedicated her time as chair of the Angel Tree project, team captain for RELAY for life, and board member of a kidney association. Her career plan includes growing her specialty cakes and catering business. She manages her business, school, and caring for her family. Scott Pope -Non-Destructive Examination Technology Scott is working to earn his second associate degree. He aspires to earn a bachelors degree. Scott is active with the Student Government Association. He is described as willing to assist other students reach their learning objectives. Martha Russell - Hotel and Restaurant Management Marti is a full-time student, single mother, and restaurant manager. She aspires to own a restaurant. Marti is active in her church and also volunteers as a mentor in a battered women's shelter. Heather Sokoloski - College Transfer - Elementary Education Heather helps her classmates with math. She aspires to become a middle school math teacher. Heather volunteers her time as a cheerleading coach and cleans riverbanks. Anita Spitzhoff - Baking and Pastry Arts and Culinary Arts Anita is seeking to earn a degree in two programs of study. She is President of CPCC's Culinary Club. Anita aspires to become a teacher in the culinary arts. She contributes time to organizations including the MS Society and Second Harvest Food Bank. Tiffany Taylor - Surgical Technology Tiffany is an active student member of the CPCC Surgical Technology organization and the National Association of Surgical Technologists. Her career goal is to work as a surgical technologist in operating rooms at local hospitals. Stephen Toney - Graphic Arts and Imaging Technology Stephen is focused on returning to management in the printing industry. He enjoys reading and keeping up with the major graphic software. Stephen possesses a great attitude and high work ethic that makes him stand out from his classmates according to his instructor. Anna Troppmann - Interior Design Anna is well liked and respected by her instructors. She is active in her church and has consistently met the criteria for President's list. Anna plans to pursue a career in a field related to commercial interior design. Brittany Warner - Physical Therapist Assistant Brittany is focused on becoming a pediatric physical therapist assistant. She participated in a service-learning project working with an elementary school student who has a disability. Vincent Wolfe - Fire Protection Technology Vincent works full-time with the Charlotte Fire Department. His career goal is to follow in his father's footsteps and rise through the ranks in the fire service. Vincent is a member of several organizations within the fire service.
