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Central Piedmont Community College

Charlotte, NC

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Quick Facts

1963
Founded
Public community college
Type
13,640
Total Students
$63M
Endowment
(2024)
$3K
Tuition (In-State)
$9K
Tuition (Out-State)
$4K
Avg Net Price
Associate's Colleges
Classification
President: Kandi Deitemeyer

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Central Piedmont Community College

Central Piedmont: Charlotte's foundation for accessible education and workforce development since 1963.

Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC) stands as a vital cornerstone of higher education and community development in Charlotte, North Carolina. Founded in 1963, it emerged from the significant N.C. Community College Act, combining the strengths of the Central Industrial Education Center and the historic Mecklenburg College. Today, CPCC continues its legacy of providing accessible, high-quality education and training to empower individuals and strengthen the local economy.

Prospective students and their families will discover a college deeply rooted in its community's history, literally built upon the foundation of the former Central High School campus. This connection to the past is celebrated through the beautifully renovated Central High School building, which now houses administrative offices and admissions, symbolizing CPCC's enduring commitment to its heritage while looking forward to the future.

Academically, Central Piedmont is designed to equip students with practical skills and knowledge for a diverse range of careers. A standout example of its innovative approach is its partnership with WTVI, Charlotte's PBS affiliate, which the college now operates as a hands-on laboratory. This unique collaboration provides an unparalleled learning environment for students pursuing an Associate Degree in Broadcasting and Production Technology, offering direct experience in a dynamic media industry.

With an endowment of $0.1 billion, CPCC is positioned to continue investing in its programs and student success. Under the leadership of President Kandi Deitemeyer, the college offers a supportive and engaging student experience, fostering growth and preparing graduates to thrive in their chosen fields and contribute meaningfully to the greater Charlotte area.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1963 through the landmark N.C. Community College Act.
  • Formed by the merger of the Central Industrial Education Center and Mecklenburg College.
  • Operates WTVI, Charlotte's PBS affiliate, as a direct learning laboratory for students.
  • Offers a unique Associate Degree Program in Broadcasting and Production Technology, launched in 2015.
  • Manages an endowment of $0.1 billion, supporting institutional growth and student opportunities.
  • Preserves the historic Central High School building (dating back to 1923) on its central campus for administrative and admissions functions.

Timeline

1923
Original Central High School building, now part of CPCC, is constructed on Elizabeth Avenue.
1959
Central High students move out; Charlotte College and Central Industrial Education Center begin using the vacant building.
1963
N.C. Community College Act is passed, leading to the formation of CPCC.
1963
Central Industrial Education Center and Mecklenburg College merge to officially establish Central Piedmont Community College.
2002
CPCC trustees approve renaming Garinger Hall to the Central High School building.
2007
The renovated Central High School building is rededicated after restoration efforts.
2015
WTVI becomes a laboratory for CPCC's new associate degree program in broadcasting and production technology.
🏛️
63 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Kandi Deitemeyer
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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