Monica Keller’s Times Observer photos are one of the classes I’m learning about Hi-Ed’s Canva.
Businesses, students and artists recently gathered to improve their marketing and design skills at a workshop hosted by WCCBI, featuring sessions on digital design, marketing strategies and effective advertising.
The workshop began with Angie Bigelow, assistant director of Hiade and work coordinator from school, leading the crash courses of online design platform Canva. Participants learned how to create eye-catching graphics for social media, marketing materials and presentations.
“This was a great opportunity for beginners and experienced designers to hone their skills.” Bigelow said.
WCCBI native Savannah Casey and Caroline Johnson shared their marketing strategies across a variety of networks, including radio, newspapers, print and television. Casey emphasized the importance of balancing traditional media with digital platforms, but Johnson highlighted the potential for short-form videos that guide participants through Tiktok marketing and attract the latest audience.

Hi-Ed’s Angie Bigelow is shown teaching Canva classes.
Earlier in the day, Casey and Johnson worked with 12 students from the Warren County Career Center (WCCC) who were present along with teacher Kathy Cummings.
“I’m trying to cover these topics in the classroom, but I was hoping to get a wider view.” Cummings said.
Students also participated in sessions led by Donnie Rosie, owner of Rosie Marketing, to further explore the fundamentals of marketing.
Rosie’s session focuses on marketing four Ps: product, price, location and promotion. He said that marketing success requires a strong foundation, not just promotion.
“The general misconception is that promotions are necessary.” Rosie said. “But without a solid product, pricing strategy, and distribution plans, promotions are not effective.”
The workshop was a joint effort between WCCBI and the Warren Forest Council on Higher Education (HI-ED).
“It’s great that everyone works together to provide these learning opportunities.” said program manager Donna Smith.
Hi-Ed executive director Joan Stitzinger highlighted the importance of such events in the community.
“This workshop fits perfectly with everything about Hi-Ed.” Stitzinger said. “The turnout was great and we managed to meet the real needs of our community.”
For more information about upcoming workshops and business development programs, please visit www.hi-ed.org.
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