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.

As a first-generation graduate of Central Piedmont Community College, Jeffreia Pitt feels like she broke “a generational curse” when she earned her Associate in Applied Science degree in criminal justice technology in December 2025.

“Neither one of my parents graduated from college, but they did land careers that helped support me and my brothers,” said Jeffreia, the mother of four boys. “None of my brothers went to college, but I did have a brother who attempted to go. So, this is a big deal because I broke a generational curse being 39 years old, not stopping and keeping my eye on the prize, and just staying focused.

“I hope to be able to do something that will encourage my sons to go off and do great things.”

The next generation is already on its way, as Jeffreia’s oldest son also recently graduated from Central Piedmont.

Jeffreia — who grew up with four brothers — is originally from Rocky Mount, N.C., but was raised in Charlotte. She has always enjoyed working with children and got her credentials in Early Childhood Education shortly after high school. She worked in daycares and even ran one out of her home for a while, providing meals and transportation. She also drove a school bus for six and a half years.

In 2023, she felt called to make a change and her path led her to Central Piedmont. 

“I've always been very passionate about children and just standing up and doing what's right,” she said. “When I came to Central Piedmont, I shared with one of the academic advisors some of my passions. The advisor was the one who felt like Criminal Justice Technology would be a good major for me to get into.”

Her history of working with children and studying criminal justice led an advisor to suggest she serve as a guardian ad litem, a person appointed by the court to investigate and represent the best interests of children. 

“I was able to write documents where I represented dependent, abused, and neglected children,” she said. “I actually wrote a document for a judge where she found no objections. It was the first document that was completed for this particular family involving three children, and I was the one who got the process rolling to make sure the kids were in a safe environment.”

Jeffreia speaks highly of the Criminal Justice Technology program at the college, believing the structure and lessons helped shape her.

“It helped condition and discipline me because before I came to Central Piedmont, I was not the woman that I am today,” she said.

In addition to her advisors and program instructors, Jeffreia also received support from the college in several ways to help ease her financial burden. She was awarded three separate scholarships and was part of TRIO Student Support Services for first-generation students. She believes her journey would have been a lot harder without TRIO support.

“The TRIO program really helped me a lot with tutoring, counseling and making sure that I graduated on time,” Jeffreia said. 

She also utilized services offered by Single Stop, a program providing financial assistance and emergency grants, legal and wellness support, resource referrals, tax assistance and more.

Jeffreia’s career path is still developing, as she is considering paralegal work or working as a probation officer. She was also recently accepted at UNC Charlotte. Regardless of where she ends up, Central Piedmont has provided her with a solid foundation for years to come.

“One day, maybe you'll see your next attorney,” she said.

For 38 years, Nancy Green has been a part of the fabric at Central Piedmont Community College.

Today she is the Director of Campus Printing & Signs, but nearly four decades ago, she was simply trying to find her way. 

“I was a high school dropout and mother who wanted to return to school and earn my diploma,” said Nancy, a Charlotte native. “I had a case worker, Ms. Hanes, who believed in me, encouraged me to go back to school and recommended Central Piedmont. That advice changed my life. Central Piedmont gave me a second chance, not just at education, but at believing in myself. 

“I came here looking for a diploma and I found a future.”

She ended up dedicating her life and career to college, helping students achieve their dreams and goals every day. 

At first, Nancy was employed as a student worker in the print shop while earning her high school diploma and taking graphic arts classes. She eventually learned of an available part-time press operator position, which led to a lifetime of campus printing work. She started full-time as a reprographic clerk handling the reproduction of documents in 1989 and held that role until 2006, when she transitioned into a supervisor position. Since 2015, she has been in a director role. She also returned to school to receive her graphic arts degree in 2008.

“Every project has a purpose, and every deadline matters,” she said. “It is hands-on work where I can see my results, and I feel valued for what I contribute to our staff and students.”

Nancy manages operations, supports her team and works with departments across campus. She and the staff meet deadlines, solve problems and turn out finished material ranging from brochures to signs. Over the years, Nancy has witnessed significant changes in the printing operation.

“The biggest change has been in technology, moving from manual, traditional printing to fast, digital production,” she said. “The pace is quicker and the expectations are higher.”

She has also seen Central Piedmont itself change, noting the expansion and growth of Central Campus since her earliest days at the college. In fact, she has worked in three different buildings and under three different college presidents. 

But she is also quick to explain that the college’s commitment to serving the community has remained the same. In her years, she’s watched Central Piedmont continually embrace new technology and become even more student-focused. In fact, she believes the college sees more young, traditional students than ever.

Nancy also began a generational legacy at Central Piedmont, with her three children and three of her grandchildren all having been students at the college at one time in their lives. 

“I advocate Central Piedmont to anybody who is starting out, especially when you don’t know where you want to go,” she said.

In August, Nancy is planning to retire from Central Piedmont after nearly four decades of service. She doesn’t know what she’ll do just yet, but as a deeply spiritual person, she is planning to simply look out her back door and say, “Lord, thank you.”

She’ll miss meeting new people and learning new technology, but she knows Campus Printing & Signs is in good hands. She’ll also be forever grateful for what the college has meant in her life and is excited to see what the future holds.

“As someone who came here for a second chance, it’s been powerful to watch Central Piedmont create those opportunities for generations of students to come,” she said.

For nearly 40 years, Nancy has been part of an untold number of special moments at the college and made a difference in countless students’ lives.

• 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

A collaboration that had been in the works for months recently came to fruition. At the Central Piedmont Community College Simulation Center, the college’s Nursing program collaborated for two days with the Interpreter Education program to run a stroke scenario.  

But not only was the patient having a stroke, they were also users of American Sign Language and utilized interpreting services to access communication.

The collaboration was the brainchild of Kate Durkee, Central Piedmont interpreter education instructor. 

“In our field of interpreting, it has been found that we often don't get enough practice in real-life situations,” Durkee said. “Because of the accessibility of video recordings and being able to practice in front of a screen, there's been a lot of skills practice and drilling in that 2D format. But it strips away the opportunity to work with real people who are going to move and react and respond in different ways. Research shows that even if student interpreters do not have the skills yet to interpret in a medical facility, the experience of trying is really helpful and can really grow their skills.”

Durkee reached out to Laura Cragg, director of the simulation center, who in turn put out a call to department chairs in health sciences. Christi Champion, department chair of the LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) to ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) Bridge program, thought it would be an ideal opportunity for her students. Those individuals work in healthcare and are already licensed nurses. Now, they are taking another step to obtain an associate degree in nursing.  

“I thought this was a great idea,” Champion said. “It is very realistic that anybody who walks into the hospital could have a Deaf patient or a hard-of-hearing patient. I felt that my students specifically have some more critical thinking skills than the other nursing students who are not licensed yet and do not have as much practice in the healthcare facility.”

Nursing students began the scenario with an assessment determining the patient is Deaf and having a stroke, while also recognizing the need to call an interpreter.  

After a short time — to increase realism and real-life anxiety — interpreter students came into the room and interpreted for all parties, communicating with the nurses as they continued patient care.  

Nursing students also learned about alternative communication techniques, such as communication boards, pointing, gesturing, writing, and showing before doing that they could use while awaiting interpreting services.

The participants who played the role of the patients are faculty for the ASL program and are themselves Deaf.  

Katie Linker served as one of the patients.  

“Everyone was learning so much from one another,” she said. “You could see the nursing students and the interpreting students really collaborating and talking through Deaf culture, communication access, nursing, and healthcare. Everyone left with something that they can utilize for next time.”

Cragg says that in the science of simulation, debriefing is the most important part.

“It’s where the education really happens,” she said. “I always say people do the right thing for the wrong reason, or they do the wrong things for the right reason. Maybe their thought process was great, but then they just made the wrong decision on how to act on it. We get that conversation going and also encourage them to discuss their emotions in this psychologically safe environment.”

The overwhelming takeaway was that students all wanted to advocate for the patient, but in this scenario, understanding how to do that and who to communicate with was the greater challenge.  

In healthcare, the scenario simulated is known as a “low-volume, high-risk" situation. Because stroke care is extremely time-sensitive, any delay in communication can directly delay treatment. For Deaf patients, communication barriers can slow assessment, diagnosis, and decision-making, increasing the time to intervention. In stroke care, “time is brain,” meaning that every minute without treatment can result in additional loss of brain tissue.

Some interpreter students will go into the interpreting field of healthcare when they graduate. This experience gave them an opportunity to learn what it will be like in a real situation and see how different it is to interpret normal conversation from a medical conversation. The signs and terminology are different, and many patients have cognitive and/or physical deficits, which makes interpreting more difficult. This patient had right-sided weakness due to the stroke, making it hard to sign, and therefore harder for the interpreter students to understand what was being signed to them.

Medical interpreting is typically pursued as a specialization post-graduation for interpreting students, due to the intricacies and urgency required.

“Medical interpreting compared to conversational interpreting is a higher level,” Linker said. “There's more terminology because some of those medical words are quite complex.

"There are some terms that may not be fully understood by the patient, but the interpreter has to know and understand the meaning behind it or be able to request clarification. They must be able to accurately explain what the word means.”  

Though their roles differ, interpreters and nurses are both patient advocates.

Champion saw both students and faculty learning together as they developed a deeper understanding of one another’s roles and strengths, and how they could support each other. To her, it was like light bulbs coming on.

“People were putting things together; things were making sense,” she said. “They had this critical thinking going on. That, to me, is an invaluable part of sim and any learning experience.”

By learning the perspective of a Deaf patient, the nursing students were able to better understand the importance of continuous communication. Keeping patients informed of their situation and care is critical as not all patients communicate the same way. The sim center also saw firsthand the value of communication, as the staff needed to utilize an alternative visual method to communicate with Linker and tell her when to progress her symptoms as she played a patient.  

The goal is to continue the simulation with other programs, providing students with real-life training they can take into their careers in Mecklenburg County and beyond. 

• 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.

When Victoria Burroughs was growing up in Bristol, Connecticut, her church congregation included several Deaf and hard-of-hearing members. Ever since then, she has wanted to be an American Sign Language (ASL)-English interpreter. 

She’s currently pursuing that dream as part of the Interpreter Education program at Central Piedmont Community College.  

“I chose to study interpreting specifically because the Deaf community experiences a lack of communication access,” Victoria said. “Becoming an interpreter gives me the opportunity to be part of bridging that gap.”

A mother of three, Victoria lives in Monroe, N.C., having moved south from New England a decade ago. Her children played a significant role in her decision to return to college to pursue her associate degree in Interpreter Education.

“This is a passion and a dream of mine, so I really wanted to chase that and build a foundation for my future while making sure they have a good future, too,” she said.

Central Piedmont’s Interpreter Education program has a sterling reputation, which Victoria learned of before she started. She sees the passion for teaching in each faculty member and notes their eagerness to answer questions and offer advice or support. The program includes five full-time instructors — four Deaf and one hearing. In addition, there are two Deaf part-time faculty members.

“The Deaf community are obviously the experts in their own language and their own culture, so learning from them has been valuable for me,” Victoria said.

Victoria notes a common misconception about ASL is that it is a visual form of English, but it is actually a language of its own with its own grammar and sentence structure. Interpreters thus need to understand meaning and reformulate it into the other language. Plus, they need to be keenly aware of body language, tone, and expressions.

During the two-year associate degree program, students build a strong foundation in ASL and interpreting, continually learning and practicing, and ultimately complete an internship to work in the environment of an interpreter. 

“You learn a new language, you learn a new culture, you're learning a new skill, and that's all happening in the classroom,” Victoria said of the program. “It is hands-on practice because ASL is a visual language. But you can’t just stick with what you’re learning in the classroom if you want to continue to grow your skills. Getting out and attending events, workshops, and networking with the Deaf community is all very important.” 

Upon earning her Associate in Applied Science degree in May, and completing all necessary exams, Victoria will be licensed to work as an interpreter in North Carolina. Her goal is to become a community interpreter. These interpreters can work in a wide variety of locations but are often found in medical or educational settings.

With a national shortage of interpreters, Victoria encourages anyone interested to try it out.

Reflecting on her own journey, Victoria acknowledges she has devoted significant time and energy to her Interpreter Education studies. However, she is proud of what she has gained.

“Like the saying, nothing that is worth doing comes without sacrifice,” she said. “I can confidently say it’s worth it and I’m honored that I’m on my way to becoming part of that community.” 

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.