News and Features

A striking 15-foot stainless steel sculpture now greets students, employees, and visitors outside Central Piedmont’s Parr Arts Building, facing E. 4th Street — an eye-catching addition made possible through the generosity of an anonymous donor and the vision of local artist Tom Risser.

Created by Risser, a Charlotte-area engineer and sculptor, the abstract, untitled work began decades ago as a small, two-dimensional sketch. Over time, it evolved into a large-scale, three-dimensional form fabricated from stainless steel, featuring sweeping curves and layered elements that catch and reflect light throughout the day — and especially at night as headlights and campus lighting bring the surface to life.

Risser, who has been welding sculptures for more than two decades, originally installed the piece in the front yard of his home. As he prepared to sell the property, he hoped to find a public home where the sculpture could be safely preserved and widely enjoyed. That opportunity came when Central Piedmont expressed interest, ultimately relocating the piece to its new setting on the college’s Central Campus.

Seeing the sculpture installed outside the Parr Arts Building has been especially meaningful for Risser. “Sometimes these sculptures are part of your soul,” he said, noting the joy he felt watching students pause to photograph or admire the work as they passed by after its installation.

Designed without a prescribed meaning or title, the sculpture invites individual interpretation —whether as a figurative form, a floral shape, or even a musical instrument. Now firmly rooted on campus, the piece fulfills Risser’s ultimate goal: sharing art in a public space where it can inspire curiosity, conversation, and connection every day.

• Community College Month highlights affordable education, clear pathways to careers and four‑year degrees
• Central Piedmont powers Charlotte’s workforce through apprenticeships, employer partnerships and hands‑on learning

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Central Piedmont Community College will celebrate Community College Month throughout April, spotlighting the college’s role as a gateway to opportunity, a driver of the regional workforce and a pillar of support for students and the broader community.

Since opening its doors in 1963, Central Piedmont has been rooted in access, opportunity and strong community partnerships. Today, the college serves more than 52,000 students annually across six campuses in Mecklenburg County, offering education and training that directly connects learners to in‑demand careers and four‑year transfer pathways.

“Community colleges transform lives every day, and this month gives us the opportunity to share that impact with our community,” said Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, president of Central Piedmont. “We meet students where they are — whether they’re starting college for the first time, changing careers, or gaining new skills to advance in the workforce.” 

Powering the region’s workforce

As one of the largest community colleges in North Carolina, Central Piedmont serves as a critical workforce engine for the Charlotte region. The college collaborates with businesses and industry partners to offer:

• 20 apprenticeship programs
• 250 work-based learning opportunities 
• More than 60 customized training solutions

In addition, continuing education and accelerated training programs allow individuals to reskill or upskill quickly in high‑growth fields — from artificial intelligence and transportation to healthcare and skilled trades.

“Being given the option to work and get paid to learn was very appealing,” said Kent Harrington, a 2025 graduate in Mechatronics Engineering Technology who had an apprenticeship with Blum. Throughout the apprenticeship, Kent gained extensive technical and workplace skills, from operating CNC machinery and working across diverse teams to learning financial management and effective communication.

Affordable education with real value

Central Piedmont is committed to keeping higher education within reach, offering education options to meet the needs of students and their budget.

• $46,000+ in potential savings by starting at Central Piedmont and transferring to a four‑year institution
• More than 50% of students receive financial aid
• $4+ million provided in scholarships annually

Students can further reduce costs through dual enrollment, which allows eligible high school students to earn tuition-free college credit, and apprenticeships allow students to gain paid, hands-on experience while covering tuition costs. 

“I went through a lot of financial hardships, so deciding to go to school was a big life-changer for me,” said Daisy Corea, an Ophthalmic Medical Personnel student. “It was something that I wanted to do, but I wasn't sure where to start. I was too afraid of the commitment of having to pay off student loans and student debt. But Central Piedmont really did make it easy for me, and with the security of being able to jump right into the career of my dreams, it's so comforting.”

More than a college

Beyond the classroom, Central Piedmont serves as a vital community resource, offering affordable services, cultural events and more for residents of Mecklenburg County and beyond.

• The college’s Small Business Center helps more than 350 entrepreneurs and small business owners launch and grow 
• The community dental clinic serves nearly 1,000 patients annually
• English as a Second Language (ESL) and adult literacy programs empower residents to build skills, expand opportunities and participate fully in community life
• More than 90,000 community members attend performances or lectures and visit our art galleries across our campuses each year

• College to add barbering, nail technology and esthetics programs in August 2026
• Expanded programs provide affordable community services while building skilled workforce

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Central Piedmont Community College is transforming and expanding facilities at its Harris Campus into Mecklenburg County’s hub for hands-on learning in cosmetic arts, barbering, and massage therapy. The renovation and program expansion reflects the college’s continued commitment to preparing a skilled, workforce-ready talent pipeline while providing affordable beauty and wellness services to the community.

The renovated facility - formerly the Harris I building that will now be called the Cosmetic Arts building - will welcome students beginning with the fall semester in August 2026. Features will include modern, professional salon and massage therapy spaces designed to mirror real-world industry environments. Students will train by serving real clients, gaining practical experience while providing accessible, low-cost beauty and wellness services to the community.

“We’re turning passion into a profession,” said Dr. Heather Hill, Central Piedmont’s provost. “These best-in-class facilities at Harris Campus create direct and meaningful pathways into in-demand careers and prepare students to be confident, skilled, and workforce-ready from day one.”

• Partnership expands access, strengthens advising, reduces costs, and increases bachelor's completion
• Central Piedmont offers nearly 20 guaranteed admission transfer partnerships

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Central Piedmont Community College and The University of North Carolina at Pembroke have announced a new guaranteed admission transfer partnership designed to make the path from an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree clearer, more coordinated, and more affordable for students.

The new agreement, known as BraveNation Advantage, creates a defined, student-centered transfer pathway that aligns academic advising, course planning, and support services between the two institutions. Through this partnership, eligible Central Piedmont students who complete designated coursework will be guaranteed admission to UNC Pembroke, reducing uncertainty and helping them stay on track to earning a four-year degree.

“BraveNation Advantage connects two institutions around a single student journey,” said Dr. Heather Hill, provost at Central Piedmont. “By clearly mapping how credits transfer and strengthening support at every step, we’re helping students move forward with confidence toward a bachelor’s degree and the career opportunities that follow.”

“This partnership with Central Piedmont Community College expands access and creates a clear, supportive pathway for students to continue their education at UNC Pembroke,” said Dr. Kelly Brennan, vice chancellor for Enrollment at UNCP. “Through BraveNation Advantage, students gain early access to advising, resources and a university community that is committed to their success from day one.”

Key benefits of the BraveNation Advantage partnership include:

• A more seamless and predictable transfer process, aligning academic pathways between Central Piedmont and UNC Pembroke.
• Clear progression toward a bachelor’s degree, helping students understand how earned credits apply to UNC Pembroke programs.
• Stronger advising and coordinated support, guiding students through critical academic and planning milestones.

The agreement builds on Central Piedmont’s long-standing commitment to transfer excellence. The college maintains partnerships with more than 30 four-year colleges and universities, including:

• Statewide transfer agreements to UNC System universities
• Nearly 20 guaranteed admission agreements
• Twenty “2+2” programs for Associate in Applied Science graduates
• Five honors transfer agreements
• Two additional specialized transfer opportunities

• Establishes scholarship fund and program fund to expand opportunities for students
• Boosts workforce readiness for one of the region’s fastest-growing sectors

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Central Piedmont Community College and PSA Airlines today announced a new partnership to prepare more students for high‑demand, high‑wage careers in the aviation sector in the Charlotte region and beyond.

Nationally and regionally, the aviation industry faces rising demand for pilots, aviation maintenance technicians, drone operators, air traffic control specialists, and other skilled roles. As an American Airlines hub serving 13 other carriers and home to one of the world’s busiest airports, Mecklenburg County is uniquely positioned to develop the skilled talent needed to fuel the region’s growing aviation sector.  

With support from PSA Airlines, Central Piedmont is expanding its investment in modern equipment and curriculum that will strengthen the pipeline of trained aviation professionals to sustain regional employers. Through the collaboration, Central Piedmont students will gain access to internships and PSA facilities to support hands‑on learning. PSA will also provide technical expertise and professional development opportunities for college faculty. 

“This partnership reflects our commitment to strengthening the aviation workforce in one of the fastest growing regions in the country,” said Christine Hollanshead, Vice President of People of PSA Airlines. “We’re excited to help develop the next generation of aviation professionals by expanding access to hands-on training, modern equipment and scholarship support.” 

Through this new partnership, PSA Airlines will establish the PSA Airlines Scholarship Fund to support students pursuing aviation‑related fields, as well as the PSA Airlines Program Fund, which will provide resources to strengthen academic programs at the college. These funds will complement the airline’s broader efforts to enhance and expand Central Piedmont’s aviation programs. 

“PSA’s investment in student success is clear, and we’re proud to partner with them to develop talent for one of our region’s most essential and fastest‑growing industries,” said Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, president of Central Piedmont. “Together, we are creating new opportunities for our students while strengthening the aviation workforce that keeps our community moving.”

Central Piedmont currently offers a range of industry-recognized aviation training opportunities, including a Private Pilot Ground School and drone instruction, with additional coursework in development. Collaboration with PSA Airlines is an important part of the college’s strategy to further invest in the future of aviation education. The college is also pursuing resources to establish a comprehensive aviation maintenance program aligned with regional workforce and economic development needs.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Central Piedmont Community College today announced the appointment of Janet LaBar to its Board of Trustees. The Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners appointed LaBar to complete the term vacated by Jim Dunn. LaBar will serve two years, through June 2028.

LaBar is a longtime supporter of Central Piedmont and previously served on the Board of Trustees from 2021-24. During her tenure, she provided strategic guidance as the college navigated the post pandemic environment and strengthened its role as the region’s primary workforce development engine. She has consistently advocated for deeper connections between the college and the business community to ensure Charlotte-Mecklenburg employers have access to the skilled talent they need.

In addition to her board service, LaBar volunteered as a mentor in Central Piedmont’s Ruth G. Shaw Women’s Leadership Program from 2020-21, offering coaching and career guidance to students selected for the program.

LaBar serves as the executive director of the Women’s Impact Fund, a Charlotte-based nonprofit with more than 500 members. Under its collaborative giving model, the Fund has awarded more than $8.5 million in grants to more than 110 local nonprofit organizations.

“Janet LaBar brings decades of leadership experience, a deep understanding of our region’s workforce needs, and a clear passion for Central Piedmont’s mission,” said Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, Central Piedmont president. “Her institutional knowledge and commitment to student success will strengthen our board as we continue advancing our strategic priorities.”

LaBar’s blend of regional business experience, philanthropic leadership, and community perspective will support Central Piedmont as it expands student resources, enhances workforce pathways, and deepens public-private partnerships across the Charlotte region.

• New studio at Cato Campus allows program to serve 200 students
• Expansion delivers high-tech, flexible learning to more students across the region

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Central Piedmont Community College expanded its growing architectural technology program to a second location at its Cato Campus, doubling capacity and increasing access for students across the Charlotte region. The expansion, made possible from the support of an anonymous donor, reflects growing student demand, the region’s construction and development boom, and the college’s deepening investment in hands-on, design-focused education.

“This expansion is about meeting students where they are and giving them the space and tools to imagine, collaborate, and build,” said Dr. Heather Hill, Central Piedmont’s provost. “We’re proud to provide a studio that mirrors real-world practice and makes architectural education more accessible in our community.”

With this second studio, the program can serve up to 200 students. The expansion complements ongoing partnerships in the area, including a 2+2 transfer agreement with UNC Charlotte’s David R. Ravin School of Architecture. This agreement launched in 2022 and gives qualified students a direct pathway to complete a four-year pre-professional architecture degree – students spend two years with Central Piedmont and then two years at the four-year institution.

The new Cato studio, converted from a former law library, features: 

• an open layout with mobile furniture 
• abundant natural light
• high-tech fabrication tools, including 3D printers, plotters, and laser cutters 

These tools complement the program’s emphasis on industry-standard production workflows, including Building Information Modeling (BIM) and computer‑aided drafting (CAD). 

Students in the program also learn industry‑relevant software such as SketchUp, Rhino, AutoCAD, and Revit, ensuring they graduate with real-world technical proficiency.

Beyond the classroom, both locations offer students opportunities to engage with professionals and other students from both UNC Charlotte and Central Piedmont's architecture programs in work sessions and critiques. These experiences help develop soft skills like communication, collaboration, preparation, and critical thinking. Students can network and establish a strong relationship with the existing architectural community in Charlotte.

Students also benefit from opportunities to join the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS), where they can build leadership skills, engage in service projects, and strengthen their design portfolios. The program is also affiliated with the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA) and the Coalition of Community College Architecture Programs (CCCAP), giving students access to conferences, design competitions, and professional networking across the field.

“With the new studio opening at the Cato Campus, it’s made attending and commuting to classes much easier,” said Sofia Villaneuva, a first-year student who lives in Iredell County. “My education is much more accessible and convenient than it was before.”

Central Piedmont will resume normal operations on Wednesday, Feb. 4. All campuses will reopen for in-person classes and events. 

Those on campus for in-person classes and events on Wednesday are encouraged to take care as some walkways may still be hazardous. Students, employees, and visitors should pay attention to signage and avoid closed-off areas.

Students and employees can check their Central Piedmont email for more information. Community members can also follow our social media channels for any future college updates: 

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn

Central Piedmont will continue reduced operations on Tuesday, Feb. 3. All classes will be shifted to remote learning. In-person events will be canceled, and campuses and buildings will be closed.

During reduced operations, current and prospective students can join virtual lines for many services through the QLess kiosk, including assistance with applications, financial aid, advising, and more.

The college will continue to monitor the weather and provide guidance for Wednesday, Feb. 4 by 4 p.m. on Tuesday.

Students and employees are encouraged to check their Central Piedmont email for more information. Updates will also be shared on Central Piedmont’s social media channels: 

• Facebook

• Instagram

• LinkedIn

Central Piedmont will move to reduced operations on Monday, Feb. 2. All classes will be shifted to remote learning. In-person events will be canceled, and campuses and buildings will be closed. 

The college will continue to monitor the weather and provide guidance for Tuesday, Feb. 3 by 4 p.m. on Monday. 

Students and employees are encouraged to check their Central Piedmont email for more information. Updates will also be shared on Central Piedmont’s social media channels:  

• Facebook