KWALL had the pleasure of attending our very first Community College Public Relations Organization (CCPRO) Conference in 2025 — and we can confidently say it won’t be our last. Why CCPRO 2025 was a game-changer for us comes down to a few key factors: it was held in sunny San Diego, brought together a tight-knit community of around 165 marketing professionals representing California’s community colleges, and offered an intimate, relationship-driven atmosphere with sessions tailored specifically to higher ed marketers. CCPRO 2025 delivered in all the right ways.
KWALL Stands Out
As one of the only digital agencies present — and the only one fully focused on higher ed web strategy — we had a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations about the digital challenges and opportunities facing community colleges. While one other vendor offered some website services, KWALL stood apart in the room as a strategic partner dedicated to digital transformation in education.
A Community of Shared Goals
From meeting new faces to reconnecting with current partners, we left CCPRO feeling more connected than ever to the mission of California’s community colleges. These institutions are doing big things on tight budgets — and the drive to improve student experiences online was clear in every conversation we had.
Key Takeaways
The Enrollment Cliff Is Coming
With steep enrollment declines projected to begin in 2026, California colleges are already shifting their strategies. A common theme? A stronger focus on recruiting adult learners to offset the anticipated drop in traditional student populations.
Limited Budgets, Unlimited Digital Needs
Many institutions are facing budget uncertainty or reductions — some even had planned redesign funds pulled back. Still, there’s broad recognition that aging websites (some built as far back as 2017) are overdue for an upgrade. Leaders are seeking ways to make meaningful digital progress without the cost of a major redesign.
Accessibility Is a Priority
With the 2026 accessibility mandate on the horizon, schools are thinking proactively about compliance. Even though most haven’t started the work yet, there’s widespread awareness — and a readiness to take action. Accessibility isn’t just seen as a legal box to check; it is viewed as a responsibility to serve all students equitably.
KWALL’s Solution: Continuous Design & Long-Term Partnership
We came away from CCPRO with a clear message: colleges want a modern, student-centered website experience, but need a smarter path forward. That’s why we created KWALL’s Continuous Design Program — a flexible model that supports colleges with ongoing improvements, rather than large redesigns every 5–7 years.
Whether it’s personalization, accessibility, or just additional support for understaffed teams, KWALL offers scalable digital solutions that meet the real-world challenges institutions are facing today.
What’s Next?
Next year’s CCPRO conference is happening in San Luis Obispo, and we’re already planning to return — hopefully with a speaking session in partnership with a group like Montecito. We’re also exploring the national version of this event, which brings together community colleges from across the country, and could be another great opportunity to expand our reach and impact.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
We’d love to learn more about your digital goals and explore how KWALL can support your team. Whether you’re navigating accessibility, enrollment shifts, or a limited budget — we’re here to help.
