When SJC set out to redesign its website, the mission was simple: create a powerful first impression while making information easy to find for students, employees, and the community.
The result is a user-focused, mobile-first website that’s not only meeting its goals—it’s earning national recognition for excellence in web design, digital communication, and accessibility.
Since launching on November 27, 2023, the new SJC website has become a model for community college websites nationwide, receiving top honors from leading industry organizations.
SJC’s Website Redesign: A User-First Approach
The redesigned sanjuancollege.edu was developed with the end user in mind. Whether you're a prospective student exploring degree options, a job seeker, or a community member looking for events and resources, the new website delivers a seamless, intuitive experience.
Key highlights include:
- Interactive Program Finder: Search academic programs by interest, delivery format, or career goals.
- Community-Focused Content: Access local resources, bilingual content, and a full calendar of campus and community events.
- Mobile-First Design: Optimized for smartphones and tablets, ensuring a consistent, accessible experience on any device.
- Streamlined Navigation: Tailored content for key audiences—students, faculty, staff, and business partners—to make finding information fast and frustration-free.
National Recognition for Web Design and Innovation
San Juan College’s website has received multiple prestigious awards that celebrate outstanding achievement in website strategy, design, accessibility, and user engagement:
NCMPR Paragon Award – Gold (Website Category)
Awarded by the National Council for Marketing & Public Relations, this national honor recognizes the best community college website in the country based on design quality, strategy, and effectiveness.
Collegiate Advertising Award – Gold (Website Design – Business/Community College)
Recognizing exceptional creativity and functionality, this award highlights the visual appeal and navigational strength of SJC’s website.
AVA Digital Award – Gold (Web-Based Production – Educational Institution)
Presented by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals (AMCP), this award honors innovation in digital media, recognizing SJC’s technical performance and usability.
NCMPR Medallion Award – Silver (District 4)
This regional award honors outstanding digital work from community colleges in New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, and nearby states.
The Communicator Award – Award of Excellence (General School/University Website)
Presented by the Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts, this is the highest distinction in the competition, acknowledging websites that are both engaging and informative.
Educational Advertising Award – Merit (Website Category)
As part of one of the largest higher education marketing competitions, this award highlights functional design and impact on student outreach.
A First Impression That Lasts
“Our website is often the first interaction people have with San Juan College,” said Dr. Toni Hopper Pendergrass, President of SJC. “These awards reflect our commitment to creating a digital experience that makes education more accessible and puts the user first—whether that’s a student looking for classes or a community member attending an event.”
The SJC Marketing and Public Relations team led the project from concept to launch, ensuring the new site reflects the college’s mission to inspire success and enrich the community.
Explore the New San Juan College Website
Whether you're a student, faculty member, business partner, or lifelong learner, the new San Juan College website is designed to serve your needs with clarity and ease.
