Annual Conference

Held each March in Lancaster, the CUPRAP Annual Conference brings together members and colleagues from across the region for a dynamic, in-person experience.


Attendees can expect a thoughtful mix of keynote presentations, concurrent sessions, and peer-driven conversations—along with meaningful opportunities to connect, collaborate, and build lasting professional relationships.

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Join Us at CUPRAP 2027

Whether you’re new to CUPRAP or a longtime member, the spring professional development conference offers a balanced blend of professional development, peer learning, and community connection—all set against the backdrop of historic Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

Save the date and make plans to join us March 22 - 24, 2027, in Lancaster. Registration will open in Fall 2026.


To learn more about submitting a session proposal by Friday, October 23, keep scrolling!

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Bring Your Big Ideas to CUPRAP 2027


CUPRAP invites you to submit a proposal to present or a topic suggestions for our 2027 Conference to be held March 22 to 24 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Each year, more than 200 higher education marketing and communications professionals come together to share ideas, sharpen skills, and explore innovative solutions to today’s challenges in marketing, communications, and public relations.


We are seeking engaging, relevant, and practical sessions that provide attendees with tools and strategies they can bring back to their campuses. Sessions may take the form of workshops, presentations, or panels, and should include opportunities for interaction and discussion whenever possible.


CUPRAP sessions are designed to be dynamic, practical, and interactive. We invite proposals that:

  • Highlight innovative approaches to marketing, branding, and communications in higher education.
  • Share success stories and case studies that others can adapt for their own institutions.
  • Provide hands-on workshops where participants gain skills, tools, or resources they can immediately put to use.
  • Explore emerging trends and challenges, such as AI, social media, enrollment strategies, or crisis communications.
  • Showcase strategies that emphasize creativity, collaboration, and measurable results.

We welcome sessions that appeal to a variety of audiences—whether you’re focused on admissions, advancement, alumni engagement, media relations, design, or digital strategy.


Proposal Guidelines:

  • All proposals must be submitted by Friday, October 23.
  • Submissions should include a clear session title, abstract, and learning objectives.
  • Preference will be given to sessions that are interactive, inclusive, and actionable.
  • Any proposals deemed to include sales pitches for products or services by the committee will be declined.
  • Selection decisions will be shared on Friday, November 13.


On August 31, CUPRAP offered a quick virtual session offering tips for submitting strong proposals. You can catch the recording here, or flip through the slide deck here.

  • Registration Details

    Coming soon for 2027!  Registration is expected to open in early November 2026.


    When registration opens, CUPRAP members will enjoy exclusive discounted registration rates as part of their membership benefits.


    All attendees are encouraged to take advantage of Early Bird pricing by registering before the January 29 deadline to receive the lowest available rate. 


    After the Early Bird period ends, standard registration rates will apply. The earlier you register, the more you save.

  • Lodging

    The Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square will serve as the official hotel for the 2027 CUPRAP Conference.


    A special group rate of $179.00 USD per night will be made available exclusively to conference attendees. A booking link will be made available in November 2026.

  • Getting There

    The conference is hosted at the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square, located in the heart of historic Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Click to expand to learn how to get to CUPRAP 2027 with ease!


    By Air

    If you’re flying, the most convenient airports are:

    • Harrisburg International Airport (HRG) is approximately 40 minutes by car
    • Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is approximately 90 minutes by car

    By Train

    For those coming by rail:


    By Car

    Convenient and affordable parking is available for $15.00/day in the Penn Square Parking Garage


    Lancaster is pedestrian-friendly: you may choose to walk between the hotel, nearby restaurants, shops, and the conference venue.


    We look forward to welcoming you to Lancaster. Safe travels and see you soon!

  • Sponsorship

    Align your brand with hundreds of higher-ed communications and marketing professionals at the 2027 CUPRAP Conference! 


    Our Sponsorship Prospectus outlines a variety of tailored opportunities, from signature event sponsorships to year-round partnership packages, that ensure your organization gains meaningful visibility and connections with decision-makers from across the region.


    Whether your priority is brand awareness, lead generation, or relationship building, we’ll help you make a memorable impact. 2027 Sponsorship Prospectus coming soon!

  • Cancellation Policy

    Cancellations received on or before March 5, 2027, will be refunded, minus a $75 administrative fee. No refunds will be issued after this date.


    Registrations may be transferred to another individual from the same organization at no additional cost by notifying CUPRAP in writing prior to March 12, 2027.

2026 Sponsorship Opportunties

Sponsorship is a meaningful way to showcase your organization, connect with higher education professionals from across the region, and support the professional growth of our community.


For more information or to secure a sponsorship, please reach out to Mark Cunningham, a member of the CUPRAP Board of Directors.


We extend our sincere thanks to the companies who have already committed to sponsoring the 2026 conference. Your partnership and generosity help make this event possible!

2026 Sponsorship Prospectus

The 2026 Sponsorship Prospectus for our Spring Professional Development Conference, taking place March 11–13, 2026, in Lancaster, PA, is now available!


The prospectus is available below. Browse for full details on sponsorship levels, benefits, and ways to showcase your organization.


To learn more or discuss custom partnership options, please contact Mark Cunningham.


We look forward to collaborating with you for another outstanding conference!