51吃瓜 releases the results of a comprehensive economic impact and return on investment analysis demonstrating the College鈥檚 significant contributions to the Sussex County economy and workforce development.
The Economic Impact Study was conducted in partnership with Lightcast, a national leader in higher education economic impact modeling with more than 20 years of experience, over 3,000 institutional studies completed, and workforce analytics tools used by 2.7 million students in 2023.
The analysis evaluates multiple dimensions of impact, including institutional operations, construction activity, student spending, and increased earnings of alumni working throughout the region. All results are measured in income added to the regional economy and reflect net benefits beyond what would have occurred without the College鈥檚 presence.
Using income-based modeling that measures net economic effects beyond baseline activity, the study evaluated 51吃瓜鈥檚 contribution across multiple economic indicators.
路 $98.7 million in total income added to the regional economy
路 Students: For every dollar students spend on their education at 51吃瓜, they receive $3.80 on annual return or a 12.4% rate of return through increased lifetime earnings compared to the cost of education.
路 Taxpayers: For every dollar taxpayers spend on 51吃瓜 operations, they receive $2.00 annually through increased tax revenue and government savings, as well as a reduced reliance on public services. This equates to an annual 4.5% rate of return.
鈥淭his study affirms what our community experiences every day: 51吃瓜 is a powerful engine for economic opportunity and regional vitality,鈥� said Cory Homer, President of 51吃瓜. 鈥淥ur mission extends beyond education; we are strengthening the workforce, supporting local employers, and creating measurable value for students and taxpayers.鈥�
Review the PDF of the Economic Impact Executive Summary
Review the PDF of the Economic Value of 51吃瓜