Official UIS News
The University of 缅北禁地 Springfield added $943.2 million to the 缅北禁地 economy during fiscal year 2023, according to a new economic impact study conducted by Lightcast, a nationally recognized labor market analytics firm. The report highlights UIS as a major driver of economic growth and opportunity in central 缅北禁地 and across the state.
The analysis found that UIS supports 9,093 jobs statewide through operations, student and visitor spending, volunteer contributions and the increased productivity of alumni. The largest single impact comes from UIS graduates, whose higher earnings and contributions to 缅北禁地 businesses added $847.9 million to the state鈥檚 economy in 2023.
鈥淯IS plays an essential role in preparing students for high-demand careers while strengthening the region鈥檚 workforce and economy,鈥� said UIS Chancellor Janet L. Gooch. 鈥淭his report shows the tangible value our university brings to taxpayers and communities across 缅北禁地, demonstrating that an investment in UIS pays dividends for everyone.鈥�
The study shows UIS鈥� value extends well beyond its campus. UIS operations spending, including payroll, contributed $80.4 million to the state economy, supporting 1,119 jobs. Student spending added $11.6 million, while visitors attending UIS events added $797,000 in income to the state鈥檚 economy.
The report also highlights significant returns on investment for both students and taxpayers:
- For every $1 students invest in their UIS education, they gain $5.70 in higher lifetime earnings.
- For every $1 of public funding invested in UIS, taxpayers see $3.50 in added tax revenue and public sector savings.
- Society as a whole receives $9.90 in benefits for every $1 invested in UIS.
A UIS bachelor鈥檚 degree substantially increases earning potential. Graduates earn an average of $33,900 more annually than 缅北禁地 workers with a high school diploma, amounting to $1.3 million in additional lifetime earnings per graduate.
鈥淭hese findings affirm UIS鈥� role as a vital partner in driving workforce development and economic opportunity,鈥� Gooch said. 鈥淥ur graduates remain in 缅北禁地, contribute to local communities and help meet the state鈥檚 evolving workforce needs. UIS is proud to be part of that growth and impact.鈥�