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OCEAN COUNTY - Since opening its doors in 1964 as New Jersey's first community college, Ocean County College has educated and trained thousands of Ocean County residents, building a skilled workforce that supports the region's continued growth.
In a recently released economic impact study performed by Lightcast reflecting the Fiscal Year 2023-2024, the Ocean County Board of Commissioners and Ocean County College (OCC) recognized the far-reaching impact that OCC has on residents, businesses, families and the regional economy.
According to the study, OCC generates an annual economic impact of $355.8 million and supports 4,849 jobs throughout Ocean County, meaning one out of every 69 jobs in the county is connected to the college and its students.
From employers hiring OCC graduates to families attending performances at the Jay and Linda Grunin Center for the Arts or educational programs at the Robert J. Novins Planetarium, OCC continues to touch nearly every corner of the Ocean County community.
"Ocean County College is more than an educational institution, it is a cornerstone of our community," said the Deputy Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Jennifier Bacchione, who serves as liaison to the College. "Its impact can be seen in our workforce, our economy, our arts and culture community, and in the opportunities it creates for residents of all ages."
The report found that OCC alumni contribute $291 million annually to the County economy through higher earnings and workforce participation across industries including healthcare, education, business, public service, and technology.
"OCC is deeply woven into the fabric of Ocean County," said Dr. Pamela Monaco, President of Ocean County College. "Beyond the classroom, the college serves as a hub for cultural enrichment, workforce development, lifelong learning, and community engagement."
During the Fiscal Year 2023-2024, OCC served more than 12,500 credit students and 755 non-credit students while employing 901 faculty and staff members. The study also found that for every dollar invested in OCC, society gains $7.50 in economic and social benefits, while taxpayers receive $1.90 in added tax revenue and public-sector savings.
County officials and college leadership said the partnership between Ocean County and OCC will continue to play a critical role in shaping the County's future through education, workforce readiness, tourism, arts, innovation, and community engagement.
"As Ocean County continues to grow, OCC remains one of our strongest community assets," the Ocean County Board of Commissioners added in a joint statement. "Its value is measured not only in economic impact, but in the lives it changes every single day and we appreciate the work of the staff and faculty as they continue to provide students with a host of opportunities."
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