News and Features

From a young age, Kristen Alvarado Sorto has been passionate about hair, makeup, and nails. She sought out “Get Ready with Me” YouTube videos growing up and practiced the craft on herself and her sisters. At Central Piedmont Community College, she found a place where she could turn passion into a career with the cosmetology program.  

Kristen, who hails from Charlotte but whose family is from El Salvador, ultimately became a shining example of what is possible when you follow a dream. Her time at Central Piedmont culminated with her serving as the college’s fall 2025 commencement speaker.    

“Being the commencement speaker was truly an honor,” she says. “I come from an immigrant family. They came to the United States to give me a better education, a better life, something that they couldn't have. I had the opportunity to share my story and really inspire others that it is possible. That you can do it if you set your mind to it.” 
 
In her speech, Kristen encouraged her fellow graduates to keep pushing.  
 
“This moment is only the beginning of what each of us can achieve,” she said to her fellow students and the gathered crowd at Charlotte’s Bojangles Coliseum. “As we move forward, remember this one powerful truth: We are the generation rewriting our stories — one degree, one dream, and one victory at a time.”  

Kristen toured many colleges before selecting Central Piedmont. None of them made her feel so welcome, and she knew she had found where she belonged.   
 
Still, Kristen faced challenges early on as a full-time student while also working a full-time job.  
 
“I remember the first week I started, I was really starting to question, ‘Is this really for me?’” she says. “I was just doubting myself. I was comparing myself to other people, and I was like, ‘Wow, their work is exceptional.’”  

She found herself getting further behind as she tried to balance work with school and eventually had a failing GPA. But she is fond of saying the comeback is greater than the setback.  
 

With her mind set on improvement, Kristen leaned on her instructors and advisors, who encouraged her, supported her, and boosted her confidence. She also relied on her deep faith in many challenging times. She emphasizes that fear — and fear of failure — are not important. Rather, it is important to come back and try again.   
 
She utilized many resources at the college and encourages students to get involved in activities and clubs, to truly become part of the community.  
 
Kristen’s next step will take place at UNC Charlotte, where she will study business administration to complement the services and techniques she learned at Central Piedmont. She plans to open her own salon one day, and she knows she needs to understand the business side of the operation to be successful.  

Throughout her life, her cultural identity has played a significant role in shaping her, and she takes an immense amount of pride in her heritage.  

“It's a very beautiful culture, and I always cherish that,” Kristen says. “While I was born in the United States, El Salvador means a lot to me, and I get to share my culture. I get to share my experience.”  
 
She also credits her family for supporting and guiding her to her singular position in her class.  
 
“As a first-generation college Latina graduate, it means everything to me,” she says. “Because while this diploma may have my name on it, it also carries their legacy, their sacrifice, their hard work. I know they're very proud of me, but also, I always have them in my heart.” 

• Partnership provides affordable pathway for students to earn a bachelor’s degree online
• More than 350 Central Piedmont graduates have continued their education at WGU
• Top fields of study for transferring students include IT, business, and healthcare

CHARLOTTE, NC – Central Piedmont Community College and Western Governors University have extended their partnership agreement, guaranteeing a path for Central Piedmont students to pursue bachelor’s degrees at one of the nation’s leading online universities.

The transfer pathway is open to students who have graduated with an associate degree from Central Piedmont, and students and employees are eligible to apply for the WGU Community College Partner Scholarship, which is valued at up to $3,500. 

Since the partnership began in 2020, over 350 Central Piedmont students have continued their education at WGU, increasing from 21 students during the first year of the partnership to more than 100 each of the past two academic years. 

Top fields of study pursued by students include:  

• Information technology and software engineering
• Business, accounting, and finance
• Public health and nursing 

“This extension builds on Central Piedmont’s long-standing focus of helping students move forward with confidence toward their academic and career goals,” said Dr. Heather Hill, provost of Central Piedmont. “Together with Western Governors University, we’re driving innovation in higher education – creating programs that match real workforce needs, making it easier for students to keep the credits they’ve earned, and helping them finish their degrees faster.”

“The Greater Charlotte region has seen tremendous growth in employment in the past few years, and Central Piedmont plays a critical role in preparing the local workforce for success,” said Ben Coulter, Ed.D., chancellor for WGU in North Carolina. “This renewed transfer agreement will help graduates continue their educational pursuits online while juggling work and family obligations.”

Central Piedmont remains committed to transfer success, offering 18 guaranteed admission programs with colleges and universities across the Carolinas, along with agreements with four online or out-of-state institutions to give students flexible, affordable pathways to a bachelor’s degree. 

WGU offers more than 120 fully accredited online bachelor’s, master’s and professional certificate programs spanning business, technology, healthcare, and K-12 education. Its flexible, competency-based model allows students to work at their own pace with support from program mentors, and tuition for bachelor’s degrees is priced at approximately $4,000 per six-month term. Students may complete as many courses as they choose within a term, creating a path to faster degree completion and workforce entry. WGU has more than 10,000 graduates across North Carolina.  

Editor’s Note: To support our branding initiatives, please refer to the college as:

• First reference: Central Piedmont Community College
• Second reference: Central Piedmont
• The college no longer uses the “CPCC” acronym. 

About Central Piedmont 

Central Piedmont Community College is highly accessible and convenient to people of all ages who seek a real-world, affordable, hands-on education that will transform their lives and strengthen the economic, social, and cultural environment of Mecklenburg County. Central Piedmont is also a smart investment. At a fraction of the cost, students learn by doing, receiving a combination of technical and soft skills training from quality faculty who prepare them to enter the workforce and make a difference in their family, business, community, and world. Founded in 1963, Central Piedmont Community College has eight locations throughout Mecklenburg County, offering nearly 300-degree, diploma, and certification programs; customized corporate training; market-focused continuing education; and special interest classes. For more information, visit cpcc.edu, or connect with the college on social media at cpcc.edu/social

About WGU 

Western Governors University, the nation’s leading nonprofit, online university, is transforming higher education to be more student-centric, affordable, accessible to all, and relevant to the workforce. Established in 1997 by 19 visionary U.S. governors, WGU creates life-changing pathways to opportunity for those underserved by traditional institutions — working adults, historically underrepresented communities and a diverse, growing number of learners looking for a flexible, online model that better suits their life circumstances. WGU’s competency-based education model allows students to demonstrate mastery as they progress through programs at their own pace. Learn more at wgu.edu. Follow WGU on LinkedIn. 

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.

TERRI YACOVELLI EXHIBITION  | LEVINE CAMPUS  

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. 

“THE UNSCENE SOUTH” BY CHARLES EADY  | CENTRAL CAMPUS, DOVE GALLERY

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

“A LOVE LETTER FROM CHARLOTTE” BY MIKE DAIKUBARA  | CENTRAL CAMPUS, NORTH CLASSROOM 

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.  

NEW 3D ART EXHIBITION OPEN  | LEVINE CAMPUS 

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.  

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. 

CHARLOTTE, NC – Central Piedmont Community College ranked 91st in the America’s Top Online Colleges 2026 list, according to Newsweek and Statista, Inc. Central Piedmont’s ranking is fourth-best among 13 North Carolina institutions that made the list. 

Central Piedmont offers a wide range of programs that can be completed partially or fully online, providing flexibility for students balancing education with work and life commitments. Options include associate degrees in arts, science, and applied science, covering pathways such as business, computer science, criminal justice, biology, and teacher preparation. 

Students can also pursue programs in information technology, public safety administration, and simulation and game development, along with numerous certificates and diplomas in fields like business administration, construction management, and cybersecurity. 

During the 2024-25 academic year, nearly 15,000 curriculum students took at least one online class each semester. 

The America’s Top Online Colleges 2026 rankings were developed by Newsweek and Statista, Inc., based on a comprehensive survey of more than 10,000 online learners, along with additional research. Participants evaluated their colleges and universities across six key categories: organization, student support, affordability, reputation, success outcomes, and practical relevance. They also rated their overall satisfaction and likelihood of recommending their institution. These insights, combined with publicly available performance metrics, informed each school’s final score and national ranking. 

Central Piedmont launched several new continuing education programs this fall to help students build in-demand skills across a range of fast-growing industries.  

These short-term, skill-focused courses are designed to give students a head start in high-demand fields like hospitality, IT, aviation, and healthcare.  

What’s new:  

JumpSTART: Careers in Hotel & Lodging Operations  

•  Explore career pathways in hospitality and lodging management.  

Information Technology (IT)  

•  AI Foundations: From Curiosity to Career  

•  Learn the basics of artificial intelligence and how to turn interest into opportunity.  

Workplace Tech Skills  

•  Become proficient in the essential digital tools that power the modern workplace.  

Private Pilot Ground School (Aviation)  

•  Take off with foundational training for aspiring pilots.  

Radiology   

•  CT Scan  

•  Mammography  

•  Specialized training is available for those pursuing careers in radiologic technology. 

CHARLOTTE, NC – Central Piedmont Community College has reached a historic milestone this fall, enrolling more than 34,000 students across its curriculum, continuing education, and basic skills programs. This marks a 19% increase over fall 2024 and the highest single-semester enrollment in the college’s history, underscoring Central Piedmont’s growing impact as a driver of workforce development and economic mobility in the Charlotte region. 

The college has increased enrollment for the last four and a half academic years, dating back to the summer of 2021. 

Enrollment in the college’s curriculum programs rose by 13%, totaling 23,441 students, reflecting strong interest in high-demand fields such as healthcare, information technology, and advanced manufacturing. Continuing education programs experienced a remarkable 55% increase in enrollment, while basic skills programs grew by 31%, serving 4,652 students, empowering students to complete high school, learn English as a second language, and build confidence for independent living. 

“This record enrollment is a testament to the college’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our community,” said Dr. Amy Bruining, vice president of student affairs at Central Piedmont. “Whether students are pursuing a degree, upgrading their skills, or preparing for a new career, Central Piedmont is here to support their journey and fuel Charlotte’s economic growth.” 

Central Piedmont’s enrollment increase is fueled by several strategic initiatives: 

• Introduction of multi-term registration, which allows students to plan their academic journey up to a year in advance. 

Central Piedmont has experienced remarkable growth across its academic programs. Highlights include:  

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

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 students 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.

They hosted an info table to promote JumpSTART and connect with local employers, shared how the program strengthens the hospitality workforce pipeline, and boosted community and employer partnerships through training and collaboration.

Central Piedmont Community College is proud to announce a new partnership with North Carolina State University and its Wolfpack Connect program which provides a guaranteed admissions pathway to NC State. 

Students in the program who earn an associate’s degree from a participating community college, maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher, and meet NC State’s transfer admission deadlines can enroll in more than 100 eligible NC State majors and concentrations. 

Central Piedmont is one of three inaugural partners, along with Wake Technical Community College and Forsyth Technical Community College. All 58 North Carolina community colleges have the opportunity to join the program through Oct. 17, 2025, after which they can join annually. 

“Central Piedmont is committed to opening doors that allow students to reach their full potential,” said Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, president of Central Piedmont. “Wolfpack Connect with NC State ensures a seamless transition for our graduates, reduces credit loss, and provides a clear path to a four-year degree. These collaborations are critical to student achievement and the long-term strength of our community.” 

“Wolfpack Connect represents a bold step forward in our commitment to expanding access to NC State for students across North Carolina,” said Don Hunt, NC State senior vice provost for enrollment management and services. “By providing guaranteed admission for those who meet the criteria, we are not only simplifying the transfer process – we’re making it possible for more students to see themselves thriving at NC State.” 

To qualify for Wolfpack Connect, students must have less than 30 transferable credits completed or in progress, be enrolled at or planning to enroll at Central Piedmont or one of the participating North Carolina community colleges, and plan to pursue one of NC State’s eligible majors. 

The program will begin accepting eligibility forms in late January 2026 for a fall 2026 start. Forms are due by June 1. 

In 2024-25, over 3,000 Central Piedmont students transferred to four-year institutions. This fall, NC State welcomed nearly 1,700 transfer students, with 54% coming from the state’s community college system. NC State officials see Wolfpack Connect as an opportunity to build on transfer student successes and increase access for students across the state.  

“This program has the potential to transform lives and uplift communities across our state,” said NC State Chancellor Kevin Howell. “It reflects the very heart of our land-grant mission to serve the people of North Carolina through education and opportunity. I’m thrilled to launch another pathway for students to pursue their goals and dreams.” 

Central Piedmont Community College has released its 2024–25 Annual Report, highlighting a year of record-setting enrollment, expanded student opportunities, and a deeper regional workforce impact. With over 33,000 students enrolled during the spring term, the largest in its history, the college continues to serve as the educational and economic engine.

“This wasn’t just a record-breaking year – it was a transformational one,” said Central Piedmont President Dr. Kandi W. Deitemeyer. “We are meeting urgent workforce needs while giving thousands of students a pathway to a better future. This impact is only possible because of the trust, investment, and partnership of our community, and we look forward to how we will continue to create more opportunities for students in the year ahead.”

With research indicating more than 150 people are moving to the region per day, Central Piedmont continues to expand access and accelerate training in sectors vital to the region’s future. The college provided more than $4.2 million in scholarships to nearly 2,500 students, the most in a single year, removing barriers to higher education for thousands of individuals and families.

Why it matters

The region’s unprecedented population growth demands more from its educational and workforce institutions. Central Piedmont is meeting this challenge head-on, scaling programs, facilities, and student support to ensure upward mobility and talent readiness keep pace with the region’s economic expansion.

Students like Rachael, a former aerial artist now preparing for a career in fire protection; Tiffany, a mother working toward a degree in social work; and Eugene, an alum who returned to the college as an academic advisor to help new students find purpose and opportunity, reflect the diverse aspirations and real-world outcomes behind the numbers.

Expanding capacity to serve

To meet the region’s evolving workforce needs, the college launched a new associate's degree in artificial intelligence (AI) and expanded healthcare training through a $500,000 grant that enabled the development of new radiography and X-ray programs. The college also announced the Community Lifeline, a public safety training complex that will strengthen emergency response across the region.

“Central Piedmont belongs to this community -- it reflects its hopes, its determination, and its future,” Deitemeyer said. “Our students will go on to serve as the region’s nurses, coders, electricians, and entrepreneurs. Through education, we are changing lives and strengthening the economic vitality of the region.”

Additional highlights include:

• the opening of a student Campus Wellness Center
• record participation in the employee giving campaign up 23%
• $315,000 raised for U.S. military veterans and first responders through the college’s annual Sporting Clays Classic.

Access the full report.

Central Piedmont Community College is pleased to announce a new alliance with Arizona State University to provide students a seamless transfer experience with the MyPath2ASU® program. MyPath2ASU allows students to take the steps needed at the start of their college experience to successfully plan their transfer to ASU. This new agreement will help ensure a smooth transition process and student success.

MyPath2ASU is a set of customized tools available to transfer students from accredited, U.S. regional institutions. These tools ensure a seamless transfer experience to ASU after earning credits or an associate degree from a U.S. community college or university, and shortening the time to degree completion.

“At Central Piedmont, we are committed to building pathways that empower our students to pursue their educational goals with confidence and clarity,” said Dr. Heather Hill, provost of Central Piedmont Community College. “This partnership with Arizona State University reinforces our focus on removing barriers, minimizing credit loss, and providing our students with a clearer, faster route to a bachelor’s degree. Collaborations like this are essential to advancing student success and supporting our region’s economic and social mobility.”

Through this new partnership, students using MyPath2ASU will find their transfer experience simplified. Key benefits of the program include:

• Personalized guidance through over 400 course-by-course guided pathways to ASU online and in-person degree programs, ensuring that Central Piedmont Community College coursework aligns with their desired ASU major and minimizes credit loss.
• Guaranteed general admission to ASU and admission into MyPath2ASU major choice if all requirements are satisfied.
• Self-service, degree progress tracking to help students stay informed about their academic progress.
• A connected experience with ASU through personalized communications that support academic growth and community engagement.

ASU and Central Piedmont Community College will continuously collaborate to refine the over 400 course-by-course pathways offered in the MyPath2ASU tool. This ongoing partnership ensures that these pathways provide students with clear guidance on course selection and align with the latest academic standards and requirements.

Some of the in-demand pathways offered through the new partnership include:

• Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP) for Nursing
• Interdisciplinary Studies, BA
• Liberal Studies, BA
• Organizational Leadership, BA

ASU and Central Piedmont Community College will work to promote educational degree pathways containing on-campus and online course offerings. The courses listed on these pathways are applicable toward a student’s intended bachelor’s degree at ASU and therefore help minimize potential credit loss.

As part of the new partnership, nursing students pursuing an associate degree can advance toward a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) through Arizona State University’s Concurrent Enrollment Program. This program enables eligible students to earn their associate degree in nursing (ADN) at Central Piedmont Community College while simultaneously completing their BSN online through ASU.

To see how the MyPath2ASU program works and to get started, visit ASU's website.