November 23, 2021
Fidel Dennis' journe
y is one of perseverance and grit. He first learned about Central Piedmont from a family member who attended the college after moving to the area from another state. In an effort to improve his grades, he too, started his collegiate education at Central Piedmont. However, that was his sole goal with his eyes set on attending a four-year institution as soon as possible.
He met a lot of people, and being in college was an exciting time. After one year, he transferred to another institution to pursue civil engineering. Quickly he found the experience to be different, mainly due to no longer being able to receive in-state tuition. Finances were becoming a great strain. This experience led him back to Central Piedmont but with a renewed sense of dedication and focus.
Upon his return to Central Piedmont, Fidel utilized the available resources, made deeper connections, and even met his now wife. In 2017 he received an Associate of Applied Science degree in architectural technology with honors and a job offer in hand.
As a young adult and Liberian immigrant, he is thankful for the growth that his educational journey and transition to the United States yielded. Many of the lessons he has gained and his ability to embrace change is detailed in the book "Alien Adulthood." 
Today, he works with Bluescope as an engineering detailer, ensuring prefab steel structures are designed in accordance with regulations. Every day he is inspired by the people who have helped him along the way--family, teachers, professors. He strives to continually gain knowledge that he can in turn share with others.
He encourages current and future students alike to "see the opportunities that are within sight--the meaningful experiences, knowledge, and skills for your future goals--and go for it!"
Share your own Central Piedmont journey and successes to be considered for a future spotlight.
Posted in Alumni, Foundation News. Tagged as alumni spotlight, alumni success.
November 10, 2021
Central Piedmont Community College recognized James "Jim" W. Allison, a long-time Central Piedmont benefactor and respected Charlotte lawyer, by naming Room 1221 of the Zeiss Building on the college's Central Campus, the "James W. Allison Classroom" in honor of his 17-year relationship with the college.
The college will use Room 1221 for paralegal technology instruction beginning in 2022, when its paralegal program relocates from Cato Campus to Central Campus. The classroom naming aligns perfectly with Mr. Allison's professional interests he dedicated his career to working as a business lawyer, working primarily for Johnston, Allison & Hord PA. There, he helped counsel a number of clients representing the higher education, real estate, and healthcare fields including Central Piedmont Community College.
Over the years, Mr. Allison has served as the college's legal counsel, helping its leadership acquire facilities/property across the county to help expand its footprint to meet the needs of students and the community.
However, his contributions to the college's growth extend beyond his legal work. He and his wife Judy a Central Piedmont Board of Trustees member since 2010 have generously donated their time and resources to Central Piedmont, establishing the Judith N. & James W. Allison Endowed Scholarship to support students in the paralegal program (with a veteran preference), and the Johnston, Allison & Hord Scholarship to support students in the college's paralegal program.
"Jim and Judy have been generous supporters of the college, establishing endowed scholarship funds to extend opportunities to financially-needy students in our paralegal program," said Kandi Deitemeyer, president of Central Piedmont. "This generosity has made it possible for numerous students to prepare for meaningful careers as paralegals. The gift to name this classroom will increase available scholarship resources and provide additional life-transforming financial assistance to students."
Watch a recording of the dedication event.
View photos from event.
Posted in Announcements, Campus, Foundation News.
November 3, 2021
The Central Piedmont Annual Report is ready to view online at cpccfoundation.org/annualreport.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic during 2020-2021, the college continued to serve as the community's college, providing the support services, courses, and career training its students needed to stay on track, within an environment that fostered a culture of care.
We are grateful for the continued support of our donors, industry partners, and friends who believe in our vision of providing learning experiences that transform lives and strengthen the local community.
Please enjoy this interactive reading experience, while learning more about our 2020-2021 accomplishments and celebrating our many successes with us through videos, photos, and more.
Posted in Alumni, Announcements, Foundation News.
