Central Piedmont’s scholars also made history by being the first community college participants to win the National Ethics Bowl hosted by the Society for American Archaeology (SAA), competing against undergraduate and graduate students, as well as doctoral candidates.
The annual Truist Honors Program Expo in Spring 2025 highlighted student presentations, with faculty and scholars sharing the value of honors pedagogy for all learners. Several scholars have also taken their talents nationwide, with selections to the prestigious Chautauqua Summer Scholars program and the Summer Global Leadership Institute in New York. Honors scholars presented research at numerous academic conferences and earned accolades including Best Oral Presentation at the North Carolina Honors Association Conference.
Monisha “Mo” Pirela’s receipt of the highly competitive Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship—a $55,000-per-year award—solidified the program’s national relevance.
Elevating Scholarship, Research, and Innovation
In alignment with the program’s pillars—research, scholarship, innovation, and experiential learning—scholars have contributed to the newly established Piedmont Interdisciplinary Studies Journal (PISJ), set to release its first issue in Summer 2025. The journal fosters undergraduate and graduate research across disciplines.
Other highlights include the Canopy Innovation Award, where honors scholars earned second place and the Realtor’s Choice Award for a housing reuse concept, and numerous published works, including those featured by the National Association of African American Studies & Affiliates (NAAAS) and the Journal of Sociology and Christianity.
A program that builds community and confidence
From leadership development and global engagement to reflective thinking and civic service, the Truist Honors Program experience is both personal and professional. Scholars participate in etiquette luncheons, lead scholar councils, mentor peers, and curate ePortfolios that document their growth.
Scholar Alissa MacEdo emphasized the community within the program. “Being in the program has challenged me, but in the best ways. It’s pushed me to think bigger, work harder, and believe more in myself.”
Faith Blom described the Truist Honors Program as instrumental in making education possible for students balancing life and learning. “Your investment has helped us achieve so much greatness already,” she said.
Itala Flores credited the program—and the many mentors at Central Piedmont—for transforming her confidence and future. “This college has become a part of who I am. I’m leaving a piece of my heart here, along with something even more meaningful: my two kids, who are now taking classes at Central Piedmont.”
Looking Ahead
As the Truist Honors Program continues into its third year, it stands as a beacon of opportunity. With over 2,400 students already impacted by honors courses across 15 disciplines, the program not only elevates academic standards but also broadens what is possible for community college students.
The Truist Honors Program at Central Piedmont is more than an academic offering—it is a launchpad for lives of purpose, impact, and continued learning.