Energizing the Economy

Economic Impact Report Shows How Stanislaus State, Students and Alumni Contribute to the Region’s Economy

By Donna Birch Trahan

It’s a well-known fact that a substantial number of Stanislaus State students — approximately 74 percent — are the first in their family to go to college. When talking about their reasons for pursuing a college degree, many say they are positioning themselves for better career opportunities so they can help their family while also giving back to their community.

Stan State creates value in many ways: it influences the lives of students and their families, helps degree seekers hone employable skills, facilitates research and more. However, students aren’t the only ones who benefit from the presence of the University in the Central Valley. With more than 60,000 alumni, thousands of Stan State graduates are working and contributing to the Central Valley economy and quality of life — bringing their knowledge, creativity, imagination and entrepreneurship to the workforce.

A recent economic impact study and report unveiled in February highlights how much the University contributes to the region. Stan State partnered with Lightcast, a global leader in labor market analytics, to conduct the study.

Using data from the 2021-22 fiscal year, the report highlights Stan State’s economic impact in its six-county service region that includes Stanislaus, San Joaquin, Merced, Calaveras, Tuolumne and Mariposa counties. The study used a two-part approach, incorporating an economic impact analysis and an investment analysis to determine the benefits to students, taxpayers and society.

According to the study and report, Stan State’s total economic impact was $770.5 million — revenue generated by operations spending, research spending, student spending, volunteerism and alumni impact. Expressed in terms of jobs, Stan State’s impact supported 9,068 jobs in the six-county region.

“This study clearly demonstrates the compelling impact Stanislaus State has made in several areas by contributing millions of dollars to our city, counties and the region,” said Stanislaus State President Ellen Junn.

As a result of their education from Stan State, graduates receive higher earnings and increase the productivity of the businesses that employ them. In return for their investment, Stan State alumni receive a stream of higher future earnings that will grow throughout their working lives.

“All of these things tell us that a University education provides a host of benefits,” Junn said. “Our students and alumni are able to pursue greater professional and economic success, which improves outcomes for us all in the region.”