Lewis and Clark Community College Highlights Role in Statewide Economic Impact

GODFREY - Illinois Community College Board data shows that Illinois' community colleges are a powerful driver of the state's economy, generating $27.2 billion in total economic impact and supporting 324,273 jobs statewide, according to a newly released economic impact study.

The report, The Economic Value of the Community Colleges of Illinois, reflects fiscal year 2023-24 data and underscores the critical role community colleges - including Lewis and Clark Community College - play in workforce development, business growth, and economic mobility across the state.

"This report affirms what we see every day at Lewis and Clark Community College. When education is accessible, flexible and responsive to the needs of learners and employers, it becomes a powerful driver of long-term regional impact," said Lewis and Clark President Ken Trzaska. "Our focus is on creating meaningful opportunities - pathways that lead to good jobs, economic mobility and stronger communities."

The study finds that Illinois community colleges contribute to the economy through operations, construction, student spending, and - most significantly - the long-term success of their graduates. Alumni impact alone accounts for $25 billion in added income to the state economy.

"Illinois community colleges are one of the smartest investments we can make in our state's future," said ICCB Executive Director Brian Durham. "This study makes it clear - our colleges are not only transforming lives through education, but they are also strengthening Illinois' economy, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs, and delivering real returns for taxpayers and communities across the state."

LEWIS AND CLARK COMMUNITY COLLEGE LOCAL IMPACT

In Fiscal Year 2023-24, Lewis and Clark Community College added $210.1 million in income to the regional economy - equal to approximately 1 percent of the region's total gross regional product (GRP). The college supports economic growth in the LC Service Region, which includes 77 zip codes across 10 counties, through direct expenditures and additional spending generated by students and local businesses. LC's impact supported 2,864 jobs, meaning one out of every 69 jobs in the region is supported by the activities of LC and its students. 

Operations spending by Lewis and Clark resulted in $28.5 million in added income to the regional economy, equivalent to 605 jobs within the Service Region. Spending by relocated and retained students from the college added an additional $1.5 million in regional income, while LC alumni generated another $180.1 million in added income through employment in the regional workforce. In FY 2023-24, Illinois invested $68.1 million to support LC, which is projected to generate $300.5 million in added economic output over the course of students' working lives.

STATEWIDE IMPACT HIGHLIGHTS

Key findings from the study include:

• $27.2 billion total economic impact in Illinois
• 324,273 jobs supported - equal to 1 out of every 26 jobs statewide
• $1.8 billion generated through college operations
• $385.5 million added through student spending
• $25 billion in economic impact from alumni contributions
• 538,541 students served during FY 2023-24

The study also highlights strong returns on investment:

• Students: $4.30 in lifetime earnings for every $1 invested
• Taxpayers: $1.30 return for every $1 invested
• Society: $6.70 return for every $1 invested

"This report clearly demonstrates that Illinois community colleges are among the most effective investments our state can make," said Jim Reed, president of the Illinois Community College Trustee's Association. "The return is not only measured in economic impact, but in stronger communities, a more competitive workforce, and expanded opportunities for students across Illinois. Our colleges deliver value at every level - for students, for taxpayers, and for the future of our state."

In addition to economic impact, the study reinforces the role community colleges play in advancing workforce readiness, increasing earning potential, and improving quality of life. The average associate degree graduate earns $8,400 more annually than a high school graduate.

Illinois community colleges - including Lewis and Clark Community College - serve as critical partners to business and industry, providing a steady pipeline of skilled workers while supporting regional economies through job creation and increased productivity.

About Lewis and Clark Community College

Lewis and Clark Community College is a two-year higher education institution with multiple campuses, a river research center, a training center, and Community Education Centers located throughout its more than 220,000-person college district, which reaches into parts of seven counties.

In addition to offering associate degrees and certificates in nearly 40 career programs and numerous transfer options, the college has something for just about everyone - including College for Kids, a nationally accredited dual credit program for high school students, high school diploma (formerly GED®) completion and a robust Workforce Education and Safety Solutions and Training program. Learn more at www.lc.edu/discover.