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WSC Delivers $573.1-Million Boost to Nebraska's Economy

Published Tuesday, January 28th, 2025

Wayne State College

An economic impact study reports findings from the 2022-23 fiscal year.

Wayne State College significantly contributed to Nebraska's economy in fiscal year 2022-23, adding $573.1 million in income and supporting 7,940 jobs across the state, according to a newly released economic impact study.

Wayne State creates a significant positive economic impact on the business community and generates a return on investment to its major stakeholder groups — students, taxpayers, and Nebraska as a whole. Using a two-pronged approach involving an economic impact analysis and an investment analysis, this study calculates the benefits received by each of these groups. Results of the analysis reflect fiscal year (FY) 2022-23.

Driving Economic Growth
The study revealed that WSC's operations, construction projects, student expenditures, and alumni contributions collectively generated a substantial economic impact:

  • Operations Spending: WSC employed 991 faculty and staff, with a payroll of $35 million, contributing $36.3 million in income to the state economy.
  • Construction Investments: Capital projects provided $3.4 million in added income through short-term spending and job creation.
  • Student Contributions: Relocated and retained students contributed $3.8 million to the local economy through living expenses.
  • Alumni Impact: Former students employed in Nebraska added $529.5 million in income, demonstrating the long-term value of a WSC education.

Investment Benefits for Students, Taxpayers, and Society
The analysis also highlighted the return on investment for key stakeholders:

  • Students: For every dollar invested in their education, WSC students can expect $4.90 in higher lifetime earnings, with an average annual return of 17%.
  • Taxpayers: With $30.4 million in state funding, taxpayers will see $65.1 million in benefits, equating to $2.10 in returns for every dollar spent.
  • Society: Nebraska’s total investment of $114.3 million will yield $893.7 million in economic growth and $130.3 million in public and private sector savings, translating to $9.00 in returns for every dollar invested.

“Wayne State College continues to be a powerhouse of economic and social growth for Nebraska,” said Marysz Rames, president of Wayne State. “From supporting local jobs to empowering students with high returns on education, WSC is proud to create lasting value for our state.”

Links for full reports: