News and Features

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Central Piedmont Community College today announced updates to its Board of Trustees, including the reappointments of Alison Summerville and Lucia Zapata Griffith, and the appointment of Andrew Sprenger as the college's newest trustee.

Summerville has been reappointed by the Mecklenburg County Board of County Commissioners for a four-year term. Zapata Griffith has been reappointed by the North Carolina House of Representatives for a four-year term and will continue serving as vice chair of the Board of Trustees. Sprenger was recently appointed by the North Carolina Senate and succeeds former trustee Chris Paterson, whose service to the college concluded after four years on the Board.

"I am grateful that Ali and Lucia will continue serving Central Piedmont through their reappointments and am pleased to welcome Andrew to the Board of Trustees," said Caldwell Rose, chair of the Central Piedmont Board of Trustees. "Each brings valuable experience, insight, and a deep commitment to strengthening educational opportunity and workforce development in our region. I also want to thank Chris Paterson for his dedicated service and contributions to the college over the past four years. Together, our trustees play a vital role in helping shape the future of Central Piedmont and advancing our mission to transform lives through learning."

Reappointments

Alison Summerville

A highly engaged trustee since her appointment, Summerville currently serves as partner for financial services with Nexus Search Partners, a Charlotte-based executive search and advisory firm. She brings more than two decades of executive leadership experience in financial services and a strong commitment to workforce and talent development. Throughout her service as a trustee, she has been a consistent advocate for aligning Central Piedmont's educational programs with regional workforce needs and strengthening connections between the college, employers, and the broader community. Summerville serves on the executive committee of the Board of Trustees.

Lucia Zapata Griffith

Zapata Griffith serves as vice chair of the Board of Trustees and is a principal with METRO Landmarks. An architect and builder, she contributes expertise in real estate development, design, construction and long-term stewardship of public assets. Her community leadership includes serving as Healthy Communities Co-Council lead with the Charlotte Executive Leadership Council, where she collaborates with regional leaders on priorities related to housing, economic mobility, workforce development and community growth. She also chairs the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance's Small Business Committee and serves on the Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority (MPTA).

New appointment

Andrew Sprenger

Sprenger joins the Board of Trustees following his appointment by the North Carolina Senate. He currently serves as regional operations manager for SanStone Health & Rehabilitation and has experience in healthcare operations, finance, and business analytics. Prior to his current role, he held positions with MidCap Financial and Wells Fargo and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in finance from The Ohio State University. His professional background includes operational leadership, strategic planning, and workforce management across the healthcare and financial services sectors.

Recognition of service

Central Piedmont also recognizes the service of former trustee Chris Paterson, whose four-year term on the Board recently concluded. During his tenure, Paterson helped support the college's mission and strategic priorities while contributing to governance and oversight efforts to advance student success and workforce development.

The Board of Trustees provides oversight and strategic guidance for Central Piedmont Community College, helping ensure the college remains responsive to the educational and workforce needs of Mecklenburg County and the greater Charlotte region.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – As demand for medical imaging professionals continues to rise across the Mecklenburg County region, Central Piedmont Community College has launched a new Associate of Applied Science in radiography program that prepares students for rewarding healthcare careers while helping strengthen Charlotte's healthcare workforce pipeline. 

The program arrives at a time when demand for healthcare professionals continues to grow. The North Carolina Department of Commerce projects nearly 102,000 new jobs in the healthcare and social assistance sector by 2032, with significant growth expected across ambulatory healthcare services. By expanding radiography education locally, Central Piedmont is helping strengthen the pipeline of skilled professionals needed to support patient care throughout the region. 

"Every image captured by a radiologic technologist helps physicians make critical decisions about patient care," said Dr. Heather Hill, provost at Central Piedmont. "Radiography offers a meaningful career path where graduates can make a difference in patients' lives every day. Through hands-on training and clinical experiences, our students are developing the skills and confidence needed to enter the workforce and contribute immediately." 

Radiologic technologists are essential members of a patient’s healthcare team, providing the images physicians rely on to diagnose injuries, monitor disease and guide treatment decisions.

The program prepares students to become registered radiologic technologists through a combination of classroom instruction, laboratory experiences and clinical training with community healthcare partners. Graduates will be equipped to perform diagnostic imaging procedures that are essential to patient care and medical decision-making.

Beyond strong demand, radiography offers graduates a pathway to economic opportunity. Radiologic technologists in the Charlotte region earn starting salaries ranging from approximately $52,700 to $70,600 annually, with opportunities to pursue advanced imaging specialties such as MRI, where salaries can exceed $90,000 per year.

A key component of the program is its emphasis on real-world experience. Students complete clinical training in healthcare settings, working alongside experienced professionals and interacting directly with patients. These experiences help ensure graduates enter the workforce prepared to meet employer expectations and provide high-quality patient care.

For Carmen Hebenstreit, joining Central Piedmont's inaugural radiography cohort represents a significant career transformation. After spending more than 20 years in financial services and earning a bachelor's degree in business management and leadership, Hebenstreit sought a different career path that would allow her to make a direct impact on others. Just weeks into the program, Hebenstreit is already gaining foundational knowledge in patient care, radiologic technology and anatomy while preparing for upcoming clinical rotations.

"I was looking for a career change to something that felt more meaningful and more impactful," Carmen said. "It's demanding, but in a really good way. I feel like the program is doing a great job preparing us to work directly with patients, and I'm excited about the opportunities it opens up for my future in healthcare."

In addition to the degree program, Central Piedmont supports the professional growth of current imaging professionals through continuing education courses in computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and mammography. Offered regularly throughout the year, these courses provide opportunities for radiologic technologists to expand their expertise and pursue advanced certifications.

Through the new radiography program and advanced imaging continuing education offerings, Central Piedmont is creating opportunities for future and current healthcare professionals while helping ensure Charlotte-area providers have access to the talent needed to deliver high-quality care.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A new career could be just weeks away. This fall, Central Piedmont Community College is launching several continuing education programs that prepare students for opportunities in biotechnology, veterinary assisting, barbering, esthetics and nail technology.

As industries evolve and workforce demands shift, short-term training programs offer a valuable pathway for individuals seeking to enter a new field, gain specialized skills or advance in their current careers. From biotechnology and animal health to personal care and wellness services, these programs help connect students with employment opportunities while supplying local employers with the skilled talent they need to grow and serve the community.

"Students today are looking for affordable, flexible ways to launch their careers, and these new programs help meet that need," said Dr. Heather Hill, provost and chief academic officer at Central Piedmont. "By combining hands-on learning with workforce-relevant skills, these programs can help students prepare for careers in high-growth industries and enter the workforce with confidence."

Preparing students for careers in biotech

The new BioWork Certificate Program prepares students for entry-level careers in biotechnology, biomanufacturing and pharmaceutical manufacturing, industries that continue to experience significant growth across North Carolina.

The eight-week hybrid program combines flexible online instruction with hands-on laboratory training. Students learn foundational skills in bioprocessing, manufacturing operations, quality practices and laboratory procedures while gaining practical experience in laboratory, manufacturing and cleanroom environments.

The program is open to individuals age 18 and older who hold a high school diploma or GED. Classes begin Aug. 30.

According to the North Carolina Biotechnology Center, the state has more than 100,000 jobs in life sciences, and the industry has seen a 23% growth in employment since 2019.

Veterinary Assisting Technician Program combines classroom learning, clinical experience

Students interested in animal care can now enroll in Central Piedmont's Veterinary Assisting Technician Program, a 15-week hybrid program that blends online learning, in-person training and real-world clinical experience.

The program includes 12 online modules, weekly hands-on practical lessons and an externship at an affiliated companion animal veterinary clinic. Students develop skills in animal care, laboratory procedures, diagnostics, surgical and anesthesia support, radiography, pharmacy procedures and client communication.

Graduates will be prepared for entry-level opportunities in veterinary practices and animal care settings. The program begins Aug. 17.

New beauty and wellness programs coming to Harris Campus

Central Piedmont is also expanding workforce training at its Harris Campus with the addition of three new continuing education programs: Barbering Licensing, Esthetics and Manicuring & Pedicuring.

The programs support the college's broader investment in the Harris Campus, which is undergoing a significant expansion to increase educational opportunities and serve more students in southeast Mecklenburg County.

The Barbering Licensing Program prepares students for careers as licensed barbers through instruction in haircutting, shaving, grooming, customer service, safety, sanitation and advanced barbering techniques.

The Esthetics Certificate Program provides comprehensive training in skincare, facials, hair removal, makeup application, client consultation and professional salon practices, preparing students for licensure and careers in the skincare and beauty industry.

The Manicuring & Pedicuring Certificate Program equips students with skills in nail care, artificial nail enhancements, client consultation, sanitation standards and customer service, preparing graduates for North Carolina nail technician licensure and employment in salons and spas.

All three programs begin in September.

Individuals interested in learning more about the new continuing education offerings or enrolling in a program can visit the Central Piedmont Continuing Education website for additional information and registration details.

• New Bulldog Promise Program guarantees admission for eligible students transferring to UNC Asheville
• Milestone agreement marks Central Piedmont's 20th guaranteed admissions partnership, expanding opportunities for students to continue their education

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Earning a bachelor's degree just became more accessible for Central Piedmont Community College students. Central Piedmont and UNC Asheville have announced a new guaranteed admission partnership that streamlines the transfer process and creates a clear, confident pathway from an associate degree to a bachelor's degree.

The new Bulldog Promise Program guarantees admission for eligible Central Piedmont students who complete an associate degree and fulfill program requirements.

Through the partnership, students can begin building connections with UNC Asheville long before they transfer, gaining access to:

• Transfer information and planning resources
• Admissions communications
• Orientation opportunities
• Academic advising
• Financial aid guidance and support before transferring 

The partnership is designed to reduce uncertainty, make the transfer process more predictable and achievable, and simplify the transition for a wide range of students, including first-generation college students, adult learners and others pursuing a bachelor's degree.

"At Central Piedmont, we are committed to helping students achieve their educational and career goals while minimizing barriers along the way," said Dr. Heather Hill, provost and chief academic officer at Central Piedmont. "Students are more likely to achieve their educational goals when they can clearly see the path ahead. The Bulldog Promise Program removes uncertainty from the transfer process and provides the guidance, support and assurance students need to move confidently from Central Piedmont to UNC Asheville on their journey to a bachelor's degree."

"UNC Asheville is proud to partner with Central Piedmont Community College to make the path to a bachelor's degree as clear and attainable as possible," said Kimberly van Noort, chancellor of UNC Asheville. "The Bulldog Promise Program reflects our shared commitment to student success — giving transfer students the personalized support they need well before they ever set foot on our campus. By building on the strong foundation students gain at Central Piedmont, this partnership helps them save both time and money on their way to a bachelor's degree, positioning them to land the job of their dreams upon graduation. We want every Central Piedmont student to know we are fully committed to their success from day one."

The agreement marks Central Piedmont's 20th guaranteed admission partnership and expands the college's growing network of transfer opportunities with four-year institutions. Central Piedmont currently maintains partnerships with more than 40 colleges and universities through statewide transfer agreements, guaranteed admission programs, honors agreements and other transfer opportunities.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – With deep appreciation for its history and significance to the community, Central Piedmont Community College has announced plans to remove the historic “Granddaddy Oak” on Central Campus during the week of Aug. 3 following extensive evaluations confirming the tree's deteriorating condition and increasing safety risks.

For more than a century, this willow oak tree has stood as a landmark in Charlotte, witnessing the city's growth and the development of Central Piedmont into one of North Carolina's largest community colleges. 

• Estimated to be approximately 100 years old, the willow oak has long been recognized as one of the oldest and largest trees in uptown Charlotte. 
• According to TreesCharlotte's Treasure Trees program, it is one of the largest known willow oaks in Mecklenburg County.
• When the tree was named to the Treasure Trees program in 2022, it measured about 237 inches in circumference and over 90 feet tall. 
• Updated measurements in 2025 recorded a circumference of 256.8 inches and a crown spread approaching 95 feet.

The decision follows several recent incidents in which large limbs fell after storms and periods of high wind. After years of monitoring the tree's health and consulting with certified arborists, the college determined that the tree's structural condition has deteriorated to a point where it presents a significant safety concern.

"This decision does not come lightly," said Rick Fogarty, interim chief operations officer. "The ‘Granddaddy Oak’ has been a cherished part of our campus and Charlotte's landscape for generations. We are deeply saddened that this remarkable tree has reached the end of its lifespan."

Over the years, Central Piedmont's facilities team invested significant effort to preserve the tree, including annual health assessments, structural pruning, specialized treatments and lightning-protection systems. Despite these proactive measures, experts concluded that continued decline has made removal necessary.

The timing of the project is intended to ensure the campus remains safe as students, faculty and staff return for the fall semester.

While the tree’s physical presence will soon be gone, its legacy will continue. Central Piedmont plans to plant a substantial replacement tree in the same location and is exploring opportunities to commemorate the historic oak through partnerships with local artists.

• Jessica Boyce’s leadership during a period of growth, strategic investment and strong financial stewardship earned her a nomination

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Central Piedmont Community College’s Jessica Boyce, executive vice president of finance and operations, was selected as a finalist for the Charlotte Business Journal’s 2026 CFO of the Year in the Education category. 

As Mecklenburg County continues to grow, Boyce has positioned Central Piedmont to expand training capacity and meet the region’s workforce needs while overseeing a financial strategy supporting more than $200 million in active capital projects across the college's six campuses.

In the most recent fiscal year, Boyce successfully helped the college manage state and federal funding uncertainty while supporting continued enrollment growth, securing resources that maintained operations and supported ongoing investments in students, employees and programs.

At Central Piedmont, Boyce manages finance, operations, facilities, risk management, construction, safety and security, information technology and Foundation financial oversight. She also serves as a direct report to the president and works with the Board of Trustees and senior leadership to create and implement long-term financial and operational strategies that strengthen the institution.

That work has enhanced the college’s financial stability while enabling continued investment in programs, people and infrastructure that support workforce development and economic opportunity across the Charlotte region.

Boyce joined Central Piedmont in 2015 and holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She is also a Certified Public Accountant. Her professional background includes 17 years of experience, beginning in public accounting before moving into higher education.

For 14 recent high school graduates, this summer wasn’t about taking a break — it was about jumpstarting a career.

Through a new Careers Electric Summer Academy at Central Piedmont Community College, students traded summer vacation for hands-on training, college coursework and a direct pathway into one of North Carolina’s most in-demand professions. The initiative was funded by the Siemens Foundation and administered by the North Carolina Business Committee for Education (NCBCE) to expand access to skilled trades education and strengthen the state’s workforce pipeline.

The students, selected through a partnership with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, began the program on June 16 after completing an application process. Throughout the summer, they enrolled in two college-level courses — Basic Construction Skills (WOL 110) and Residential Wiring (ELC 113) — gaining hands-on experience while earning college credit.

Central Piedmont was one of just 12 community colleges statewide across North Carolina selected to host a Summer Electrical Academy as part of the Careers Electric initiative. The academies connected students with college coursework, industry exposure and registered pre-apprenticeship opportunities designed to prepare them for careers in the electrical field. 

To help remove barriers to participation, the program covered tuition for both courses and provided financial support for transportation, books, fees and required equipment such as personal protective gear and work boots. Students also received a $2,000 stipend for successfully completing the program.

For student Teague Wilson, the experience did more than teach technical skills — it changed the trajectory of his future. Initially planning to attend a four-year university and pursue a career in medicine, Wilson discovered a new passion through the academy and is now working toward becoming a licensed electrician.

“The way the program teaches you to think as a tradesman, as an electrician, it really opened my eyes to the possibilities of other career fields,” Wilson said. “I was always a person who worked with cars and worked with my hands, but I never thought of that as a career. This program has really given me the opportunity to pursue that.”

Wilson’s story reflects the broader impact of Careers Electric. As demand for electricians continues to rise and experienced professionals approach retirement, North Carolina faces an urgent need for skilled workers. Programs like this help bridge that gap by introducing students to career and apprenticeship opportunities that offer strong wages, long-term stability and room for growth.

By joining forces with the Siemens Foundation and NCBCE, Central Piedmont expanded opportunities for students while helping employers develop the next generation of skilled workers. 

For these 14 students, the program provided more than summer learning. It delivered college credit, hands-on experience, professional connections and a vision for what comes next. It also proved the power of education and industry partnerships – which can create clear pathways for students. 

And for North Carolina, it helped energize the next generation of skilled trades professionals.

To learn more about building talent pipelines through registered apprenticeships, or for students seeking work experience prior to graduation, please contact Workplace Learning.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Central Piedmont Community College is a $1 billion economic engine for Mecklenburg County, according to a newly released study, with the college generating significant returns for students, taxpayers and the regional economy.

The report, based on fiscal year 2023-24 data, highlights Central Piedmont’s role as a major economic engine driving workforce development, supporting local businesses and creating pathways to upward opportunities for thousands of students.

“Central Piedmont is transforming lives while strengthening our region’s economy,” said Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, president of Central Piedmont. “This study quantifies what we see every day — our students, graduates and partnerships fuel Mecklenburg County’s growth and long-term prosperity.”

Key findings from the study

The $1 billion total annual economic impact is driven by three key sources: 

• $770.6 million in added income from alumni, reflecting higher earnings and increased productivity of graduates in the local workforce
• $164 million from college operations spending, including payroll and local purchasing
• $101.2 million from student spending, as students contribute to housing, transportation and everyday expenses

Together, these impacts show how Central Piedmont converts education into economic growth through its students, its workforce and its graduates.

A powerful return on investment

The study also demonstrates that Central Piedmont delivers strong returns for individuals and taxpayers:

• Students gain $5.20 in higher lifetime earnings for every $1 invested, meaning for every dollar invested in their education, students see a 500% return
• Associate degree graduates earn an average of $11,200 more annually than individuals with only a high school diploma, resulting in up to $448,000 in additional lifetime earnings 
• The additional earnings generated by a Central Piedmont education produce a 17.7% annual return on students' investment of time and money, which is higher than the stock market’s 30-year return of 10.9%
• Taxpayers receive $1.20 for every $1 invested, creating more tax revenue than the local and state government contribute to operate the college

In short, an investment in Central Piedmont pays off for both individuals and the broader community.

“The greatest impact of Central Piedmont can be found in the thousands of graduates who are building careers and helping local businesses grow,” Deitemeyer said. “By developing skilled talent for in-demand industries, we are creating opportunities for individuals while helping Mecklenburg County remain competitive for years to come.”

Strengthening the workforce and local economy

Central Piedmont’s greatest long-term impact comes from its alumni, who fill critical roles across the region’s workforce and help businesses grow through increased productivity and earnings.

From healthcare to skilled trades to professional services, these graduates are helping meet employer demand and keep the region competitive.

Central Piedmont’s workforce impact is strengthened through partnerships with leading employers that help align education with industry needs.

“Meeting the growing healthcare needs of our communities starts with building a strong, skilled workforce,” said Michelle Vidal, vice president of talent attraction, programs and pipelines for Charlotte-based Atrium Health. “Atrium Health’s relationship with Central Piedmont helps us attract and develop teammates with the technical skills, professionalism and adaptability needed to succeed in today’s healthcare environment. By creating pathways to rewarding healthcare careers, we're strengthening our workforce, supporting local economic growth and helping ensure our communities have access to the care they need for years to come.”

Similar impacts can be seen in industries that power the region's infrastructure, supply chains and manufacturing operations.

“Strong partnerships between education and industry help build the workforce our region needs to thrive,” said Todd Miller, vice president, human resources and organizational capability at Coca-Cola Consolidated. “Programs like those at Central Piedmont provide students with valuable hands-on experience while strengthening the talent pipeline for skilled and technical careers, including roles in equipment services, manufacturing and diesel mechanics at companies like ours. Together, we’re investing in future talent and helping students embrace the servant leadership culture that strengthens our company and communities.”

About the study

The economic impact study was developed using a nationally recognized methodology, incorporating Central Piedmont’s academic and financial data alongside labor market data and modeling from Lightcast.

The full report is now available and provides a comprehensive look at how Central Piedmont drives economic growth, supports students and delivers lasting value to the region.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Central Piedmont Community College students who earn health-related Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degrees now have a clearer path to advancing their education and careers through a new statewide transfer agreement with Appalachian State University. 

The agreement creates a seamless pathway into App State’s Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences program, helping students build on their existing healthcare training while working toward a bachelor’s degree.

The program, in partnership with the North Carolina Community College System, was created with flexibility in mind. Students can complete the degree online or in person, attend part-time or full-time, and finish in as little as two years. Participants can choose concentrations in healthcare management or public health while developing leadership, communication and critical-thinking skills valued by employers across the healthcare industry.

Just as important as the academic pathway is the support available to students throughout the transfer process. The program offers rolling admission in the spring, summer and fall, requires a qualifying health-related AAS degree, and has no waiting list or enrollment cap. These features make it easier for students to continue their education on a timeline that fits their personal and professional responsibilities. 

Central Piedmont offers one of the region's most comprehensive healthcare education portfolios, with 22 curriculum healthcare programs and 33 Continuing Education healthcare offerings that create multiple entry points and opportunities for lifelong career advancement.

Demand for healthcare workers continues to increase, creating both a critical need and strong career opportunities across North Carolina. In the Charlotte region alone, there are approximately five open healthcare positions for every one job seeker.

"At Central Piedmont, we believe education should create opportunities that extend well beyond graduation," said Lisa Moran, dean of health sciences at Central Piedmont. "For many of our students, earning an associate degree is the first step in a lifelong healthcare career. This partnership with Appalachian State creates a seamless pathway for our graduates to build on the strong clinical and technical foundation they receive at Central Piedmont while expanding their career opportunities in healthcare leadership, management and public health. By working together, we're helping students continue their education, advance professionally and strengthen the healthcare workforce our communities depend on."

In addition to the new health sciences pathway, Central Piedmont students can take advantage of the Aspire Appalachian transfer program, which provides guaranteed admission to App State for eligible students who complete their associate degree and meet transfer requirements. 

Aspire Appalachian offers a range of support services designed to help students successfully transfer, including dedicated advising from both institutions, admissions guidance, financial aid assistance, special transfer events and webinars, and priority consideration for scholarships. Students also receive ongoing communications and resources to help them stay on track from enrollment at Central Piedmont through transfer to App State.

Together, these pathways demonstrate Central Piedmont's commitment to helping students continue their education, achieve their career goals and meet North Carolina's growing workforce needs.

• More than $317,000 already raised for scholarship support since 2019
• Announcement guarantees impact for students pursuing aviation-related careers

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) announced today the creation of an endowed scholarship called the “Charlotte Douglas International Airport Scholarship Fund” at Central Piedmont Community College to support students pursuing aviation-related careers. This endowment will guarantee that CLT’s charitable impact at Central Piedmont continues indefinitely.

“We are thrilled to be able to support the next generation of aviation professionals through this permanent scholarship fund,” said CLT Airport CEO Haley Gentry. “By creating an endowed scholarship at Central Piedmont, we’re not only investing in students today, but ensuring that CLT’s commitment to education, workforce development and our community continues for generations to come.”

Since 2019, the Aviation Department has raised over $317,000 for Central Piedmont Opportunity Scholarships through its popular CLT Runway 5K — more than doubling the original goal. The Oct. 18, 2025, race was another record-breaking event. It sold out in less than three hours, attracted over 1,600 participants and raised $90,930.

Endowed scholarships are established to provide ongoing support in perpetuity, with funds invested to generate annual scholarship awards for students today and in the future.

So far, 30 students from Mecklenburg County have been provided CLT Airport Opportunity Scholarships.

“We are incredibly thankful for Charlotte Douglas International Airport’s sustained investment in Central Piedmont students and their futures,” said Lisa Schlachter, chief philanthropy officer at Central Piedmont. “By covering tuition, program-required fees, and books, this scholarship expands access to aviation career pathways for students with financial need—opening doors to stable, meaningful employment while creating long-term opportunity for our region.”

As it funds the endowed scholarship, CLT will continue to donate $20,000 annually to support Opportunity Scholarships. Already, $70,930.33 from last year’s proceeds has been earmarked to start the endowed scholarship fund.

This year’s CLT Runway 5K is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026. Registration opens Aug. 1.