News and Features

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.

• Nearly 2,500 students received scholarships in 2024-2025 fiscal year 

• Scholarship portal now open for students to apply for aid in spring and summer 2026 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Central Piedmont Community College shared today the college provided $4.2 million in scholarships to 2,451 students in fiscal year 2025, marking the first time in the college’s history that annual scholarship disbursements have crossed the $4 million milestone. 

The increase of over $1.2 million from the previous fiscal year underscores the college’s unwavering commitment to expanding access to education and empowering students across the region. On average, scholarship recipients received nearly $1,750 each, compared to just over $1,000 last year. 

“Behind every scholarship is a student striving for a better future and a donor who made it possible,” said Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, president of Central Piedmont. “Crossing the $4 million mark in scholarships reflects the generosity and vision of our donors, and it means more students are gaining the education they need to transform their lives and contribute meaningfully to our community.” 

Generous donors to the Central Piedmont Community College Foundation have provided critical funding to support students through a broad array of scholarship programs. Last year, donor gifts allowed the college to establish new scholarships in areas directly aligned to workforce development needs, such as business, construction, early childhood education, and skilled trades. Donors also added funds to focused scholarships – Duke Energy expanded its scholarship for the line worker program and several donors enhanced scholarship support for U.S. military veteran students. 

Together, these programs, and many others funded by corporate, foundation, and individual donors, have enabled Central Piedmont students to pursue certificates, diplomas, or degrees with far less financial burden. 

A milestone for student opportunity 

Among the students who have benefited include Jae Taylor, who received the Merancas Technical Career Scholarship, which supports students in hands-on fields that lead directly to the workforce. Jae is an emergency medical sciences student who has the opportunity to train alongside Mecklenburg County first responders while pursuing a degree. 

Itala Flores, who graduated in the spring with an associate degree in fine arts, received the Levine Scholarship, the Kappy McClenaghan Scholarship, and the Board of Trustees Endowed Scholarship, while also being a member of the Truist Honors Program. 

“The budget has been a challenge, but Central Piedmont never let me go down,” Flores said. “Even at the last minute, Central Piedmont always helped me with a scholarship, and that was a blessing." 

Honoring Duke Energy’s expanded commitment  

Duke Energy has been a longstanding supporter of the college. In 2022, the Duke Energy Foundation provided a startup grant of $500,000 to the college’s utility line worker program and made an additional $48,000 grant in 2023 to continue its support of the program. Earlier in 2025, the company’s foundation provided a grant of $21,000 as part of the Duke Energy Vibrant Student Engineers program to support the purchase of five process control simulators at the college. 

That support carries forward as the Duke Energy Foundation increased its scholarship contributions for students in the line worker program by $25,000 in honor of former executive Julie Janson’s retirement in mid-2025. 

Janson selected to direct the funds to Central Piedmont as the charitable organization of her choice upon her retirement and noted the importance of investing in the future generation of line workers and energy professionals in the local community. 

Scholarship access and application process 

Central Piedmont’s scholarship portal opened Sept. 1 for students to apply for aid in the spring and summer 2026 terms. Scholarships are provided on a rolling basis and the college encourages students to apply as early as possible.  

Additional information about financial aid and scholarships is available on the Central Piedmont website. 

Before Yassmine Moujahid even graduated high school, she had already earned a college degree, thanks to the Harper Middle College program at Central Piedmont in partnership with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools—a place she says helped her find her community, her passion, and her purpose.  

Yassmine chose to attend Central Piedmont's Middle College program for the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school. She enrolled in the biological sciences pathway to complete general education requirements and build a strong foundation for the future career of her dreams: dentistry.  

Now, with a degree and essential knowledge in hand, Yassmine is one step closer to making that dream a reality.

“Central Piedmont has empowered me to take control of my future by helping me plan my academic and career path more effectively,” Yassmine shared. “It has also taught me valuable responsibility, which I appreciate as it prepares me for the next steps in my education and career.”

At Central Piedmont, Yassmine found more than just academic support. She formed lasting friendships, built community, and forged strong connections with teachers—all while balancing high school and college courses, two jobs, and ongoing community service. Thanks to the flexibility of her class scheduling, she was able to design her school days around designated study and work times.   

That flexibility and community also made space for her to give back. A member of the Salvation Army's Boys and Girls Club since kindergarten, Yassmine has long been involved in community service. During her senior year, she launched a Valentine’s Day card project within her community to uplift local youth. She set up stands at school and, with help from her classmates, delivered cards to children in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg community.  

“I loved it because it showed how the community can come together out of the goodness of their hearts,” Yassmine reflected. “It’s just an amazing feeling.” 

Future Plans

Her desire to uplift others fuels her passion for dentistry, too. With a biological sciences degree from Central Piedmont already complete, Yassmine now plans to study business at Queens before heading to UNC Chapel Hill for dental school. Her ultimate goal? To open her own practice and make dental care more accessible. 

“Growing up, my family, we weren’t the most fortunate,” Yassmine shared. “Whenever they had some type of pain, especially dental, they wouldn’t go. That was very heartbreaking to see.” 

Her goal is to make a difference for others who may face similar barriers to receiving care. 

“Giving that opportunity to help someone smile or just boost up their confidence through their smile—I think that’s an amazing gift. I would love to have that,” she said.  

From supporting her community to working hard toward her own goals, Yassmine is forging a path to a bright future. And thanks to the foundation she built at Central Piedmont, she’s stepping into her next chapter with clarity, confidence, and determination. 

As a high school student dual-enrolled at Central Piedmont, Nhi Hau was already taking big steps toward a future in medicine. This spring, she graduated with two diplomas and two degrees, ready to head to UNC Chapel Hill in the fall on a full academic scholarship.

But Nhi’s journey to a career in medicine began long before college. 

Born in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and raised in Charlotte, she grew up as the only English speaker in her family. She helped her parents during doctor’s visits, translated in emergency rooms, and became a voice for her parents in medical settings. She learned medical terms by listening and became curious about the signs and symptoms of different illnesses.

“It was because of my mom's miscarriage back when I was six, when I had to turn to her and tell her that she had lost the child that we had been waiting for a couple months,” Nhi reflected. “Then I realized that I really enjoyed being with someone during their most vulnerable times."

These early experiences, in addition to her family’s challenges, made her want to continue to help others through difficult moments. Her desire to help others grew stronger over time, and she took on more responsibilities to accomplish her goals. In addition to her busy schedule taking both high school and college classes, Nhi also took online courses at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics. Balancing three schools was no small task, but Nhi stayed focused.

Future Plans

Central Piedmont played a big role in her success, with faculty and staff encouraging her every step of the way. Even more so, the challenge of her coursework taught her many things about herself and helped her grow the confidence to blossom.  

“Central Piedmont has really allowed me to step into the world of higher education, both physically and mentally,” she said. “The coursework pushed me to think more critically and taught me life skills that I’m certain will help me succeed at Chapel Hill.” 

Additionally, Nhi was driven by her parents, and made the most of being a first-generation college student.  

“Being a first-generation college student to me means being able to do the things that my parents couldn't," Nhi said. “I know it's partially my dream, but it’s also my parents' dream, and it's very nice being able to let them live vicariously through me and live this dream out for myself as well.” 

In the face of many challenges, Nhi somehow managed to balance it all. In addition to attending three schools, she stayed active in clubs, spent time with her friends and family, and never lost sight of her goals. 

“The opportunities here are endless, and the faculty and professors are incredibly supportive in helping you find a path that’s right for you,” she said. “But it all has to start with your desire to make the most of your time at Central Piedmont.” 

Now, her hard work is paying off. From a young age Nhi discovered her passion, and Central Piedmont helped pave the way for her to follow those dreams.  

Learn More about Nhi's Experience

• Caldwell Rose and Khalif Rhodes reappointed, Pat Rodgers and Brad Muller newly appointed  
• Trustees elect new leaders to oversee Board

Central Piedmont Community College shared multiple updates regarding its Board of Trustees during today’s Trustee meeting.

Reappointment and new appointments

The North Carolina Senate appointed Patricia (Pat) Rodgers and Bradford (Brad) Muller to the Board. Rodgers' term will run for three years through June 2028; Muller’s term will run for four years through June 2029.

Rodgers is a trailblazer in the construction industry and the previous chief executive officer of Rodgers Builders, a nationally known contractor based in Charlotte. As a proud attendee of Central Piedmont, Rodgers has poured herself into the college community, serving as a previous chair of the Central Piedmont Foundation Board and vocal advocate for the college’s mission to serve as a steward in the community, maximize student success, and create workforce development pathways in the county. Throughout her career, she has dedicated herself to expanding public-private partnerships, serving on non-profit and community boards, investing in workforce development and economic mobility initiatives, and setting the standard for the construction industry’s civic leadership.

Muller is a marketing and communications strategist with more than 35 years of experience in public and corporate affairs, international and government relations, manufacturing and business marketing, crisis management, and media training. He spent nearly a decade in Washington, D.C., including stints with the U.S. State Department and Edelman Worldwide, the largest public relations and public affairs agency in the world. Currently, Muller leads corporate communications and government affairs for Charlotte Pipe and Foundry Company, a fifth-generation, family-owned manufacturer based in Charlotte. Founded in 1901, Charlotte Pipe and Foundry is the leading U.S. producer of cast iron and plastic pipe and fittings for plumbing systems. Muller earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Kenyon College in Ohio.

Additionally, Caldwell Rose has been reappointed to the Board of Trustees by the North Carolina House of Representatives. His reappointment extends his service for four years, through June 2029. Khalif Rhodes has been reappointed to the Board of Trustees by the Mecklenburg County Board of County Commissioners. His reappointment extends his service for four years, through June 2029.

“I am delighted Brad and Pat have been appointed to the Central Piedmont Board of Trustees and Caldwell and Khalif will continue their service with their reappointments,” said Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, Central Piedmont president. “As Trustees, these leaders will leverage their extensive experience across a wide range of industries to shape the future of the college and champion our ambitious strategic plan as we continue expanding the exceptional opportunities we offer to students across the region.”

New Board of Trustee leadership 

The Board of Trustees of Central Piedmont Community College has elected a new chair and vice chair during the July 9 Board meeting.

Caldwell Rose, president of NAI Southern Real Estate, will now serve as the chair, succeeding Jim Dunn. Lucia Zapata Griffith, chief executive officer and founding principal of METRO Landmarks Construction and METRO Landmarks Architecture, will serve as vice chair.

Rose has served as Central Piedmont trustee since 2015. He most recently served as vice chair and, prior to that, he was the chair of the Board’s finance, facilities, and audit committee for several years. Rose joined NAI Southern Real Estate in 1988 and has spent more than 29 years in the commercial real estate industry, specializing in all areas, including land assemblages, office and medical office sales and leasing, as well as investment sales and representation. Recognized by the Charlotte Commercial Board of Realtors as a top producer, Rose is also actively involved with the Charlotte community and with multiple charitable organizations. He is a graduate of St. Andrews College with a degree in business administration. He holds real estate brokerage licenses in both North and South Carolina.

“A lifelong learner myself, I believe deeply in the power of education in our communities,” said Rose. “Central Piedmont is creating opportunities for thousands of people living right here in Mecklenburg County – serving as a workforce engine, supporting economic mobility, and bolstering our community with highly trained graduates ready to enter the workforce or expand their skills. I feel privileged to serve as chair and look forward to supporting and promoting the institution’s strategic initiatives and mission.”

Zapata Griffith has served on the Board since 2022 and most recently served as the chair of the Board’s finance, facilities, and audit committee. She founded and has led Metro Landmarks Construction and Metro Landmarks Architecture since 1996. Prior to then, she was a partner and principal architect with AR&D. Zapata Griffith is an active community leader, with significant involvement in the arts, Latina-based mentoring organizations, as well as economic mobility and workforce development efforts. She is a registered architect in North Carolina and Peru, as well as a licensed real estate broker and licensed general contractor in North Carolina.

The chair and vice chair have one-year terms, with the potential for re-election for a second year.  

• College receives $474,038 from the National Science Foundation to expand its Artificial Intelligence associate degree program and grow local tech talent. 
• College’s AI degree prepares students for in-demand roles in data analytics and machine learning, offering annual starting salaries ranging from $60,000 to $75,000. 
• 88% of local employers are actively hiring for AI-skilled positions. 

Central Piedmont Community College has been awarded a $474,038 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to expand its artificial intelligence (AI) degree program and accelerate the development of local technology talent. The three-year initiative, known as Generating Artificial Intelligence Talent (GAIT), will enhance curriculum, train faculty, deepen industry partnerships, and provide tailored student support to prepare graduates for Charlotte's fastest-growing job market.

Launched in fall 2024, Central Piedmont's associate in applied science degree in AI is one of the first of its kind in North Carolina with more than 100 students currently enrolled. It is designed to equip students with the practical, high-demand skills needed to launch careers in AI-related fields without requiring a four-year degree. The new grant, awarded through the NSF's Advanced Technological Education program, builds on the early momentum and strong employer interest already surrounding the program.

“This grant allows us to take our highly sought after AI program to the next level,” said Dr. Heather Hill, Provost and Chief Academic Officer at Central Piedmont. “We are focused on aligning instruction with industry needs here in the county, supporting our faculty with the tools they need to lead and accelerate in this space, and ensuring our students are prepared to step into these emerging careers with confidence and competence.”

Responding to industry demand

Charlotte experienced a 21.3% increase in high-tech jobs between 2021 and 2022, more than double the national average. A spring 2024 survey of regional employers found that 88% are currently hiring AI-skilled workers, and 100 percent anticipate expanding those roles in the near future.

“Technology is transforming every industry,” said Hill. “Our goal is to ensure those jobs are filled by people who are trained here, live here, and are ready to lead here.”

Turning training into opportunity

The GAIT project will expand the program's capacity in four key areas: curriculum development, faculty readiness, employer engagement, and student advising. The college will also introduce industry-driven credentials that enable students to acquire skills and enter the workforce more quickly.

Graduates are prepared for roles such as artificial intelligence programmers, data analysts, machine learning technicians, and prompt engineers. These roles require a growing knowledge and use of artificial intelligence. Many of these positions offer annual starting salaries between $60,000 and $75,000, with the potential to grow above $130,000 within just a few years.

A community-wide return on investment

Serving more than 44,000 students annually and offering nearly 300 -degree, diploma, and certificate programs, Central Piedmont plays a critical role in Mecklenburg County’s economic landscape. The AI program strengthens that role by helping students secure high-wage, future-ready jobs and giving employers access to a skilled, homegrown workforce.

“This is not just a degree,” Hill said. “It is a workforce solution and an investment in our region's long-term competitiveness.” 

Jae Taylor is an emergency medical sciences student with a passion for helping others and uplifting communities through paramedicine. Originally from Boston, Jae moved to Charlotte to be with family and pursue an education at Central Piedmont.  

When choosing a school to begin their journey in emergency medicine, Jae took time to carefully research their options. With family already in Charlotte, Jae looked into local colleges and found that Central Piedmont stood out.  

The strong connection between Central Piedmont and Mecklenburg County Emergency Medical Services caught Jae’s attention. Jae admired the agency’s reputation and the doors it opens for students. After seeing the program’s great outcomes for public safety graduates, Jae knew Central Piedmont was the right place to take the next step. 

“I noticed [Mecklenburg County] Medic has opened its doors to help support and teach students at Central Piedmont, which results in a good relationship between those who are still learning and those who are working in the profession,” Jae said. “Everybody comes together to help serve the community.” 

While earning their degree, Jae received the Merancas Technical Career Scholarship, which supports students in hands-on fields that lead directly to the work force. Beyond the classroom, Jae applies their training through clinicals and ride-alongs with Mecklenburg County first responders. These real-world experiences teach Jae how to support people during some of their hardest moments. 

One instructor, John Cooper, made a lasting impact on Jae’s journey. His experience in emergency medical science helped Jae build valuable skills and grow confident in their career path. His open and welcoming teaching style continues to inspire Jae.  

“I’m in a program where there are very experienced professors and instructors that I feel confident will help me grow the most in my career path,” Jae said.  

Future Plans

Jae is on track to graduate in December 2026 and plans to start serving the community right away. With a goal to work in community paramedicine, Jae hopes to help people who struggle to access quality healthcare. Jae believes diversity in the first responder field is essential. Representation can help address the unique healthcare needs of different communities. 

“I would love to have a lifelong career of helping people on their worst days,” Jae said. “It’s very important for the community to feel supported and have first responders to address their needs, and I hope to have a career where I can impact the community in that way.”  

In the future, Jae hopes to return home to Boston and give back to the community that raised them. Whether in Charlotte or Boston, Jae’s mission stays the same: make medicine more accessible to everyone, no matter the challenges they face. With determination and heart, Jae is on a path to make a real difference—and Central Piedmont is just the beginning.  

Learn More about Jae's Experience

Chloe Mbongo never expected her biggest college lesson would be learning to give herself grace. A straight-A student in high school, she entered Central Piedmont in 2021 confident and ready to excel. But things didn’t go as planned— her courseload felt overwhelming, and she struggled to meet the high expectations she set for herself.  

By spring of 2023, Chloe faced a tough realization: she didn't earn enough credits to graduate from Central Piedmont. She then had a choice to make—keep struggling alone or finally ask for help.  

When Chloe finally talked to her friends and family, everything began to change. She saw that what worked for her in high school wasn’t enough in college. She needed to work harder and study differently. With help from her support system, she changed her habits, attitude, and goals.  

“I became no longer interested in just passing but truly learning what was presented in front of me,” Chloe shared. “I came to realize that learning is not a chore, but a privilege.” 

Chloe turned her failed classes into four semesters in a row on the President’s List. When she shared her story, she saw that it could help other students too. She didn’t run from fear—she faced it and emerged stronger than ever. Instead of letting it define her, she used it as motivation to build the future she wanted. 

Future Plans

Chloe graduated with an associate in arts and is now transferring to UNC Charlotte to get her bachelor’s degree in communications. She also wants to earn a master's degree in Christian counseling at Southeastern Seminary. At graduation, she stood on stage and told her story to thousands of people—many who had faced similar struggles like she did—and showed them it’s possible to succeed.

Learn More About Chloe's Story

Tickets are now available for The SpongeBob Musical, presented by the Parr Arts and Humanities Series.

Get ready to dive into the underwater world of Bikini Bottom, where SpongeBob SquarePants and his quirky crew face a looming disaster: the eruption of nearby volcano Mount Humungous. With only 48 hours to save the town, SpongeBob sets out to prove he's more than just a “simple sponge".

Performances will take place at the Dale F. Halton Theater on Central Campus:

• Thursday, July 24 at 11 a.m.
• Friday, July 25 at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.
• Saturday, July 26 at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.
• Sunday, July 27 at 3 p.m.

Central Piedmont students and employees may attend for free by presenting a valid college ID at the door.

Please note: The Halton Theater box office is now cashless. All ticket purchases must be made with a credit or debit card.

• Empowering Charlotte’s youth: Summer Theatre Academy offers teens hands-on training and personal growth through performance and backstage arts. 
• Building community through creativity: Program fosters confidence, collaboration, and connection among diverse students ages 15 and older. 
• Affordable access to the arts: For just $400, high school students gain four weeks of professional instruction, culminating in a full-stage musical production. 

Central Piedmont Community College is calling aspiring actors, dancers, singers, and behind-the-scenes creatives to the stage for its 2025 Summer Theatre Academy, a four-week immersive program designed to unlock talent and build confidence in students ages 15 and older.

Running June 30 through July 27, the academy culminates in a full-scale production of “SpongeBob the Musical” at the Halton Theater. Participation costs just $400 and is a high-quality performing arts opportunity for students across the region.

“This program offers more than just theater training,” said James Duke, drama instructor at Central Piedmont. “It builds confidence, fosters collaboration, and creates community. It’s about young people finding their voice and discovering what they’re capable of, whether on stage or off.”

Open to all levels of experience, the academy includes hands-on instruction in acting, choreography, puppetry, vocal technique, stage combat, lighting and sound design, and more. It serves as both a creative outlet and a bridge to personal development, particularly for students seeking community, mentorship, and new ways to express themselves.

Why it matters:

The Summer Theatre Academy reflects Central Piedmont’s broader mission to provide accessible, life-changing education. At a time when young people need connection, purpose, and safe spaces to grow, this program offers exactly that through the unifying power of the arts. 

Program benefits include: 

• Expert training in a supportive, inclusive environment 
• Development of transferable life skills: communication, collaboration, and creativity 
• Real-world production experience on a professional stage 
• Affordable access to enriching summer programming 

Enrollment is limited, and spots are filling fast. Register or learn more.

This summer, Charlotte’s next generation of storytellers will take center stage. Join us for a season of growth, creativity, and celebration. 

• Free, public event exploring the impact of AI across industries, hosted June 20 at Central Piedmont Community College 
• Keynote speakers from Amazon Web Services, Compass Group, Gartner and SEI 
• Hands-on workshops, expert panels and insights into AI careers and innovation in the Carolinas 

Central Piedmont Community College, in partnership with Mint Hill Marketing and the Carolinas Asian American Chamber of Commerce, will host the first Charlotte AI Summit on Friday, June 20, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Parr Center on Central Campus. This free public event will explore how artificial intelligence is shaping the future across various industries, including cybersecurity, healthcare, finance, and workforce development.

The summit invites students, professionals, entrepreneurs, educators, and community members to attend a full-day event featuring expert panels, interactive workshops, and networking sessions. Attendees will gain insights from top voices in technology and business on the opportunities and challenges AI presents.

"AI isn't here to replace us. It's here to evolve with us. It's a mirror of human imagination, a bridge across barriers, and a catalyst for possibility," said Ann Gonzales, president and CEO of the Carolinas Asian-American Chamber of Commerce. "This summit invites us to reimagine what's possible when we grow alongside technology, not against it."

"AI isn't just about the future. It's about what's possible today," said Joseph Little, associate dean of technology at Central Piedmont. "We're proud to host this event as part of our commitment to providing real-world education and workforce innovation."

AI Learning at Central Piedmont Community College 

Central Piedmont offers an associate degree in applied science in artificial intelligence technology and certificates in AI and machine learning. These programs blend hands-on learning with technical training to prepare students for careers in data science, automation, and intelligent systems. 

Event Highlights 

• Tiffany Benitez, head of data governance at Compass Group USA, will share insights on AI-driven risk management and analytics. 
• Celestine Pressley, executive partner at Gartner, will speak on the future of enterprise technology and innovation. 
• Antonio Mañueco, managing principal consultant at SEI, will break down the real-world implementation of AI tools. 
• Sreenath Gotur, senior generative AI specialist at Amazon Web Services, will provide a look at cutting-edge developments in generative AI. 
• Linda Yang, executive director of information strategy at Family Health Initiatives, will explore the intersection of AI and public health. 

Other sessions include industry roundtables, exhibitor showcases, and a closing social hour for networking. An AI-powered event app will help attendees connect and navigate throughout the day. 

Registration is free and open to the public. An optional networking lunch is available for $21. Seating is limited, and advance registration is encouraged.