Special to the WJH South Georgia State College made a $64.6 million impact on the regional economy and was responsible for more than 645 jobs locally during fiscal year 2024, according to a release by the The University System of Georgia Board of Regents’ economic impact study.
“The study shows the vital role South Georgia State College plays in strengthening our local economy,” said SGSC interim President Dr. Greg Tanner. “These findings highlight how our work directly supports workforce development and prepares the next generation of community leaders.
“This study reaffirms what we’ve long known— SGSC is not only a key contributor to economic growth and tax revenue but also a catalyst for opportunity, improving lives through education. We are building the skilled workforce of tomorrow while making a powerful impact on the economy today.”
Dr. Tanner highlighted SGSC’s dedication to supporting local businesses and industries by expanding associate transfer pathways and bachelor’s degree programs. He stated, “Our focus has been on creating strong community partnerships that connect our academic programs to the needs of the region. When we increase access to educational opportunities, we strengthen our communities by developing a more skilled and educated workforce that benefits everyone.”
SGSC’s impact is significant for the region as shown in the study compiled by the Selig Center for Economic Growth at the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business. Students, faculty, staff, alumni and visitors played a role in the more than $64.6 million recorded as SGSC’s economic impact to the service area for fiscal year 2024 (July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024).
This area includes Atkinson, Bacon, Brantley, Clinch, Coffee, Jeff Davis, Pierce and Ware counties. During fiscal year 2024, SGSC’s total employment impact was noted as 645 including oncampus and off-campus jobs that exist due to institution-related spending.
The results demonstrate that SGSC creates value from multiple perspectives, including the opportunity for graduates to raise their lifetime earnings and increasing consumer spending in the region while supplying a flow of qualified, trained workers to the area’s workforce.
The Selig Annual Report is conducted on behalf of the Board of Regents by Jeffrey M. Humphreys, Ph.D., director of the Selig Center for Economic Growth in the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business.
The report shows The University System of Georgia (USG) recorded a statewide economic impact of $23.1 billion for fiscal year 2024, a 5.4 percent increase from the previous year. The USG also generated 168,635 jobs, either directly or indirectly.
As noted in the report, concurrently, Humphreys in a companion study found that USG bachelor’s graduates from the Class of 2024 will earn over $1.4 million more during their lifetimes than they would have without their college degree.
SGSC’s academic portfolio includes Bachelor of Science degrees in Elementary/ Special Education (ELE/SPED), Biological Sciences (BSBS), Management (BSM), Mechanical Engineering Technology (BSMET) and Nursing (BSN). In addition, over 20 pathways in Associate of Arts and Associate of Science programs continue to attract those who wish to attend SGSC and graduate in two years.
“A degree from one of USG’s 26 public colleges and universities is a million-dollar deal for graduatesand a billion-dollar boost for Georgia,” USG Chancellor Sonny Perdue said. “Students see real returns through higher earnings and better opportunities. Meanwhile, our institutions power Georgia’s economy and help local communities thrive.”
The full economic impact report can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/assets/ usg/docs/news_files /USG_Economic_Impact_ 2024_%281%29.pdf
