News and Features

Charlotte, N.C. - The connection between music, community, and well-being takes center stage at Music and Mind: Harnessing the Power of Community for Health, which will be held at the Parr Center Theater at 10:30 a.m. on March 29. 

This engaging panel discussion, inspired by the work of world-renowned soprano Renée Fleming, will bring together leading experts to explore the transformative impact of the arts on brain health. 

This event is guided by the NeuroArts Blueprint, a pioneering initiative merging science and the arts to improve cognitive and emotional well-being. Attendees will gain insight into how music and creativity can support mental health, boost cognitive function, and foster community connection—all backed by cutting-edge research. 

Featured panelists include: 

• Renée Fleming – Soprano, WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Arts and Health 

• Dr. Jonathan Burdette – Section Chief of Neuroradiology, Vice Chair of Research, Professor of Radiology, and Cofounder of the Laboratory for Complex Brain Networks, Wake Forest University School of Medicine/Advocate Health

• Ruth Katz – Vice President; Executive Director, Health, Medicine & Society Program; and Director, Aspen Ideas Health, The Aspen Institute; Co-director, NeuroArts Blueprint Initiative

• Susan Magsamen – Executive Director, International Arts + Mind Lab Center for Applied Neuroaesthetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Co-Director, NeuroArts Blueprint

• Dr. Jen Sullivan – Enterprise Leader National Service Lines, Advocate Health; Charlotte Symphony Board of Directors

Why attend?

Whether you're a healthcare professional, artist, educator, or someone curious about the power of music, this discussion will provide practical insights into how the arts can enhance well-being. Learn how music therapy treats stress, cognitive decline, and neurological disorders—and how communities can integrate these findings into everyday life. 

Join us to discover how the arts can be a powerful tool for health and connection. 

For more information or to register, visit Central Piedmont Tix. 

Central Piedmont students and employees can attend for free with their college ID. 

Central Piedmont Community College is pleased to announce that Catherine Butler has joined the college as Vice President of Communications, Marketing and Public Relations. Butler is replacing Jeff Lowrance, who retired from Central Piedmont in 2024.

Butler will lead the development of integrated communications and marketing strategies that advance the college’s strategic plan as it continues to elevate student success, maximize student academic excellence and innovation, and cultivate community engagement and partnerships. She will oversee media relations, social media, employee and student communications, brand marketing and advertising, issues management, digital strategy and creative services.

“We take great pride in providing our students with clear pathways to achieve their educational, career, and life goals—while also creating meaningful opportunities to connect with and serve our community across all six of our campuses. As we continue to share our story and offerings with the region, Catherine’s expertise in crafting compelling narratives and fostering meaningful connections will help elevate Central Piedmont’s position as a leader in education and workforce development,” said Central Piedmont President Kandi Deitemeyer. “Her ability to engage diverse audiences and navigate complex communications challenges makes her an invaluable addition to our leadership team.” 

Bringing a distinguished career spanning corporate, government and consulting sectors, Butler most recently served as senior director of communications and engagement at Highline Warren, where she established and led the corporate communications function for the $2 billion organization in the automotive aftermarket industry. Her leadership in employee communications, media relations and community engagement will play a key role in amplifying Central Piedmont’s mission and expanding its reach.

Before her tenure at Highline Warren, Butler served as Principal Consultant at Slalom, advising Fortune 500 clients on communications strategies, business transformation and change management. She also held key leadership positions at the Tennessee Valley Authority and Duke Energy, where she managed crisis communications, financial communications, corporate strategy and stakeholder engagement initiatives.

Butler graduated from Villanova University with a bachelor’s degree in communications. She also completed Harvard Business School’s management development program. She currently serves on Villanova’s Department of Communications alumni advisory board and volunteers with the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation, demonstrating her strong commitment to education and community service.

“As a Charlotte native, I’ve seen firsthand how Central Piedmont lives out its mission of transforming lives through education and serves as a workforce development engine for the region,” Butler said. “I’m honored to join the team and look forward to amplifying the college’s impact as we engage with students, faculty and stakeholders – and meet the evolving needs of our community.” 

On Dec. 12, 2024, Central Piedmont Community College proudly celebrated the achievements of over 1,487 graduates in a ceremony that highlighted their academic success and their inspiring personal journeys. This December graduating class, with an average GPA of 3.33, demonstrated remarkable dedication and perseverance across a diverse array of programs, setting a strong foundation for future contributions to the community. 

"Graduation day is the most joyful day of the year," said Central Piedmont President Kandi Deitemeyer. "It is a day of celebration—of hard work, determination, and the incredible promise that each of our graduates represents." 

Among the many stories of resilience and triumph, four graduates stood out: 

Tiffany Glover: At 45 years old, Tiffany earned her Diploma in Adult High School. After being laid off from a trucking job, Tiffany sought a better future and found her place at Central Piedmont. With support from staff like Deandra Williams, she excelled in her studies, discovering joy in learning for the first time. Tiffany plans to return to pursue a degree in information technology and cybersecurity. 

"Central Piedmont paved the way for me," Tiffany shared. "They supported my curiosity and will continue to support my future career development in an ever-changing world." 

Stacy Goode: Even with the birth of her fifth child in September, Stacy earned her Associate Degree in Nursing while balancing the demands of clinicals, soccer practices, and parenting. Her hard work paid off, as she'll soon begin her career at Novant Health. "Life is about facing challenges and sometimes getting thrown off the path you thought you needed to be on," Stacy said. "But you pick yourself up and keep going." 

Laken Granger: Overcoming personal loss and grief, Laken earned her associate in arts degree and will begin her baccalaureate studies at UNC Charlotte in January. After her father's passing and her mother's battle with cancer, Laken found purpose in education during one of the darkest periods of her life. "My education kept me afloat and gave me purpose," she reflected. 

The ceremony also featured a heartfelt speech by Tryphene Mabiku, a Biological Studies graduate who shared her journey from growing up in the Democratic Republic of Congo to Central Piedmont. Overcoming self-doubt, language barriers, and imposter syndrome challenges, Tryphene discovered the power of community and resilience. Quoting Cicero, she reminded her fellow graduates, "If you have no confidence in yourself, you are twice defeated in the race of life. With confidence, you have won even before you have started." 

Central Piedmont's graduates represent a wide range of accomplishments: 

• Degrees Earned: 379 Associate of Applied Science, 79 Associate of Science, and 704 Associate in Arts degrees. 

• Workforce Contributions: 361 graduates entering industries such as healthcare, engineering, business, IT, and education. 

• Community Impact: 194 Career and College Readiness students with high school credentials. 

As these graduates embark on their next chapters, whether in the workforce or at four-year institutions such as UNC Charlotte, Appalachian State University, and UNC-Chapel Hill, they carry the knowledge, skills, and resilience gained at Central Piedmont. 

"You are the future leaders, innovators, and professionals who will make a significant difference in the world," President Deitemeyer told the graduates. "Share your journey. Show others that hard work, determination, and the unwavering support of family, friends, and mentors lead to success." 

Central Piedmont Community College is thrilled to announce an unprecedented enrollment milestone with over 20,600 degree-seeking students this fall. This surpasses the college's previous record, underscoring its pivotal role in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg region. The 9% year-over-year increase reflects Central Piedmont's dedication to providing relevant, accessible education aligned with workforce demands.  

Over 30,000 students enrolled across all programs this fall. This achievement highlights the college's commitment to fostering economic growth and individual success across the community.  

Central Piedmont's Expanding Programs and Partnerships  

President Dr. Kandi W. Deitemeyer expressed the significance of this milestone: "This record enrollment demonstrates our community's trust in Central Piedmont as a pathway to meaningful careers. We are more dedicated than ever to being a transformative force that empowers students to meet our region's needs."  

Central Piedmont has strategically expanded programs to prepare students for high-demand careers, including nursing, electrical line work, automotive systems, skilled trades, and a new associate degree in Artificial Intelligence. In addition, partnerships with institutions such as UNC Charlotte facilitate guaranteed admissions, offering seamless paths to bachelor's degrees.  

A Culture of Care and Inclusivity  

Central Piedmont has enhanced its student services to support this growth, including streamlined enrollment, personalized advising, and dedicated staff and faculty development. These initiatives create a supportive and accessible environment where students can thrive from day one. Focusing on inclusivity and efficient services is essential to Central Piedmont's sustained enrollment growth over the past seven consecutive semesters.  

A Catalyst for Regional Transformation  

Serving over 30,000 students this fall, Central Piedmont remains a vital partner in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg community. By providing over 300 degree, diploma, and certification programs alongside robust continuing education, the college is committed to advancing the region's economic and social well-being. As Central Piedmont grows, its mission remains firmly rooted in empowering students and driving workforce readiness for a dynamic future.

Central Piedmont Community College received a $1 million Gable Grant from the Lowe’s Foundation to grow its skilled trades certifications, expand the college’s reach in Mecklenburg County, and undertake renovations on the Harper Campus.

Central Piedmont is one of just 11 community colleges in the nation to receive a grant this year, which will increase the number of educational opportunities for students seeking construction-related certifications.

Infrastructure support also includes renovating lab space and bringing mobile learning cottages to other campuses and into the community. The mobile learning cottages will remove transportation barriers and bring new training opportunities in construction, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing training throughout Charlotte.

The Lowe’s Foundation has made a $50 million commitment over the next five years to prepare 50,000 people for skilled trades careers through grants to community and technical colleges and community-based nonprofits. The new strategic focus addresses one of the most critical worker shortages currently facing the U.S. economy.

“Construction and the skilled trades have been part of Central Piedmont’s program offerings since the college opened its doors almost 61 years ago. Our students learn quickly that these are versatile, high-demand careers with endless opportunities for growth and advancement,” said Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, Central Piedmont president. “We are so appreciative of this generous grant from the Lowe’s Foundation. Central Piedmont places a high priority on producing skilled trades professionals who can hit the ground running.  We thank the Lowe’s Foundation for partnering with us to help meet a critical need in the Charlotte region.”

Central Piedmont offers students the opportunity to learn and train for a number of construction and skilled trade careers, including:

• Air conditioning, heating and refrigeration 
• Construction and construction management
• Electrical systems
• Non-destructive examination
• Sustainability technologies
• Utilities and clean energy, and 
• Welding

Students in construction and the skilled trades at Central Piedmont can pursue a degree, diploma or certificate – and some of the shorter-term, accelerated-career-training programs are offered at no cost to the student.

Visit our website for more information about Central Piedmont’s skilled trades programs.

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) has reaffirmed the accreditation of Central Piedmont Community College. This 10-year reaffirmation comes after off-site and on-site reviews of the college and its academic programs.

Central Piedmont’s reaffirmation means the college overall and its academic programs remain fully accredited. Central Piedmont received official notice of its reaffirmed accreditation on July 1. Central Piedmont’s next reaffirmation process will come in 2033-34.

SACSCOC is an institutional accreditor for quality assurance in higher education. SACSCOC accredits institutions that award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, or doctoral degrees, including those offered via distance and correspondence education, and direct assessment within these institutions. It serves as the common denominator of shared values and practices among its members in the United States and international institutions of higher education approved by the SACSCOC Executive Council, Board of Trustees, and the Appeals Committee of the College Delegate Assembly.

Accreditation by SACSCOC signifies the institution 1) has a mission appropriate to higher education, 2) has resources, programs, and services sufficient to accomplish and sustain that mission, and 3) maintains clearly specified educational objectives that are consistent with its mission and appropriate to the degrees its offers, and that indicate whether it is successful in achieving its stated objectives.

To gain or maintain accreditation with SACSCOC, an institution must comply with the standards contained in the Principles of Accreditation: Foundations for Quality Enhancement and with the policies and procedures of the commission. SACSCOC applies the requirements of its principles to all applicant, candidate, and member institutions, regardless of type of institution (public, private for-profit, or private not-for-profit).

Hendrick Automotive Group and local business leader Rick Hendrick has given Central Piedmont Community College approximately 23 acres of land adjacent to the college’s Levine Campus in Matthews. Central Piedmont will use the donated property to build a new first responder training facility. 

The gift is the latest milestone in a long-time relationship between Central Piedmont, the Hendrick family, and Charlotte-based Hendrick Automotive Group. The college opened the Joe Hendrick Center for Automotive Technology in 2006 at the Levine Campus. Each year, the center, named for Joseph R. Hendrick Jr., father of Rick Hendrick, serves more than 3,000 students who aspire to be automotive technicians as well as employed technicians who seek updated skills. A gift from the Hendrick family allowed the college to construct the center. 

“Institutions of higher education can flourish and make an enhanced impact only when they have corporate and community partners who are willing to collaborate and dream with them. Central Piedmont has such a partner in Rick Hendrick and Hendrick Automotive Group,” said Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, Central Piedmont president. “This generous gift will allow the college to realize its vision of building a first responder training facility in southeast Mecklenburg County, where none currently exists. The college appreciates its long-running partnership with the Hendrick family and Hendrick Automotive Group.” 

Plans for the first responder training center include law enforcement, fire and rescue, EMS, forensics, detention, and telecommunicator facilities. Outdoor training spaces will include a scenario training village and emergency driving range. Indoor facilities will provide a firing range and a fire and rescue area with specialized equipment for comprehensive training. The center will be constructed in phases, with the first phase opening in 2027, and phase two opening in 2028. 

“Central Piedmont is a cornerstone of the Charlotte community and our broader region,” said Hendrick, the chairman and CEO of Hendrick Automotive Group. “Over many years, we’ve been humbled by our relationship with the school, and we’re delighted to support the continued growth of its exceptional Levine Campus. When we broke ground on the Joe Hendrick Center back in 2005, I could not have predicted how substantial its impact would be. With the knowledge that Central Piedmont will use this land to develop a world-class training facility for our first responders, today’s announcement is especially meaningful. My family and our teammates at Hendrick Automotive Group are truly honored to be involved.” 

In addition to its law enforcement, fire and rescue, EMS and forensics programs, Central Piedmont offers an associate degree program in Public Safety Administration. The two-year program provides students multiple tracks to tailor their experience toward their desired career or current field of expertise.   

The college has designed the Public Safety Administration curriculum to provide students, as well as practitioners, with knowledge and skills in the technical, managerial and administrative areas necessary for entrance or advancement within various public safety and government organizations. Students completing the program can pursue careers within fire and police departments, emergency management organizations, governmental agencies, industrial firms, correctional facilities, private industries, insurance organizations, educational organizations, security and protective organizations, and through self-employment opportunities. 

See the Central Piedmont website for more information about the college’s first responder and public safety administration programs.

CHARLOTTE, NC – Central Piedmont Community College has received a $1 million gift from Coca-Cola Consolidated to support U.S. military veterans and first responder scholarships, provide program support, and assist with other critical needs at the college.

Central Piedmont provides its military veteran students a range of services in a purposeful and caring way aimed at helping them transition from military service to civilian success in the classroom and the community while accessing all available veterans benefits. The college’s first responder or public safety programs include Basic Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice, Emergency Medicine, Fire Protection, and Public Safety Administration.

Headquartered in Charlotte, Coca-Cola Consolidated is the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States, serving consumers, customers and communities for more than 122 years. The company makes, sells and distributes beverages of The Coca-Cola Company and other partner companies in more than 300 brands and flavors across 14 states and the District of Columbia to approximately 60 million consumers. Coca-Cola Consolidated was named the “World’s Most Admired Company” by Fortune and “America’s Most Successful Midsize Company” by Forbes in 2024.

“We are honored to partner with Central Piedmont to support U.S. military veterans and first responders in this way,” said Morgan Everett, Vice Chair, Coca-Cola Consolidated. “Our purpose to serve others includes extending a pathway to opportunity, and we hope this gift will provide critical job-readiness skills to our community members as they enter the workforce.”

Recognizing the growing need for public safety professionals in Mecklenburg County, Central Piedmont launched a new associate degree program in Public Safety Administration in August 2023. The two-year program offers students multiple tracks to tailor their experience toward their desired career or current field of expertise. The program tracks include security and loss prevention, emergency and fire management, law enforcement, and corrections.

“Central Piedmont thanks Coca-Cola Consolidated for its generous gift in support of our military veteran and first responder students,” said Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, Central Piedmont president. “This gift will ease the financial burdens of deserving students who have chosen to serve their country and protect our community. Coca-Cola Consolidated’s support will have a significant and positive impact for generations to come.”

The Coca-Cola Consolidated gift is the latest initiative in a multi-year partnership between the company and the college. Coca-Cola Consolidated and Central Piedmont also have collaborated to develop a unique workplace learning program. The Coca-Cola Consolidated Apprenticeship Program is a hands-on learning opportunity that provides paid apprenticeships to stimulate interest in high-demand positions in the manufacturing, equipment repair, and logistics sectors at Coke Consolidated's facilities in the Charlotte area. Through the program, apprentices work approximately 20 hours weekly while completing three to four college courses each semester. Apprentices transition to full-time positions upon successful completion of the program.

About Central Piedmont

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

About Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc.

Coca-Cola Consolidated is the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States. Our Purpose is to honor God in all we do, to serve others, to pursue excellence and to grow profitably. For over 122 years, we have been deeply committed to the consumers, customers and communities we serve and are passionate about the broad portfolio of beverages and services we offer. We make, sell and distribute beverages of The Coca-Cola Company and other partner companies in more than 300 brands and flavors across 14 states and the District of Columbia, to approximately 60 million consumers.

Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., Coca-Cola Consolidated is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “COKE.” More information about the Company is available online. Follow Coca-Cola Consolidated on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn. 

Central Piedmont Community College held its 2024 spring commencement ceremonies on Thursday, May 9, at the Bojangles Coliseum in Charlotte. More than 1,025 students “marched” and received their college credentials during the morning and afternoon ceremonies. 

Central Piedmont’s tradition is to have graduating students serve as commencement keynote speakers. During the morning festivities, Ndianor Gbandala, a 2024 graduate, addressed her peers by delivering the commencement address. Brianna Duncan, also a 2024 graduate, spoke at the afternoon ceremony. Gbandala graduated with an associate degree in Medical Laboratory Technology. Duncan has earned an associate degree in Nursing. 

Both Gbandala and Duncan shared how they overcame struggles and challenges to complete their program of studies and received warm rounds of applause from their fellow graduates and audience members.

Students graduating from Central Piedmont with a degree, diploma, or certificate could participate in either the morning or afternoon ceremony. Central Piedmont combined its for-credit and non-degree program conferrals into both ceremonies, allowing graduates to “walk” at the time that best fits their families’ schedules.

Featuring an array of vegetables, flowers, trees, and ferns, Central Piedmont’s Horticulture Technology students held their semi-annual plant sale on Cato Campus April 19-20. 

The plant sales draw not just employees and students from the Central Piedmont community, but plenty from the public as well. 

Jacquelyn Sumrell, a first-year student who is making a career change and eventually would like to be a horticulture instructor, said the plant sale provided an opportunity to put her skills learned in the program to practical use. 

“We do everything in this process, from cleaning up the plants, preparing them for sale, tagging them correctly, and helping spread the word by marketing the sale,” explained Jacquelyn Sumrell, a first-year student. “It’s helped me gain a better understanding of the process of growing a plant from start to finish. I also have a better appreciation of what the customers are looking for and how to help them.” 

The knowledge of the students was evident in their work with the customers. One prospective buyer asked a student for the best way to deter deer, rabbits, and squirrels from his garden, and was directed to the peppers to keep the wildlife at bay. 

Kelly Black, who is in her ninth year as an instructor in the program, praised the way the students have worked this year to ensure the success of the spring sale. 

“They take a lot of pride in the program,” Black said. “To take something they grow, then sell it to a customer, is special for them. They love the hands-on work that is involved in it.” 

Given the length of time it takes for some of the plants to propagate, students in this cohort are also finishing what previous classes started last year. That cycle will continue and is a point of pride for students in the program, some of whom return to the plant sale to see their work. 

As part of their coursework, the students are required to take a business class to help prepare them for that part of the work, and Black said they research the costs and set their own prices for selling the various plants.  

“We want them to have the experience of running their own business,” she said.