Working for Nebraska

The Nebraska State College System (NSCS) has always been a cornerstone of the education system and workforce in Nebraska. We’re pleased to present the following reports that provide factual evidence of the collective impact of Chadron, Peru, and Wayne State Colleges. This independent report illustrates that the NSCS adds $1.4 billion in income to the Nebraska economy each year, demonstrating that your State Colleges are working for Nebraska.

The System continues to have a significant positive economic impact within the rural communities the Colleges serve and Nebraska as a whole. Additionally, Chadron State, Peru State, and Wayne State Colleges are key in preparing students to enter high-demand, high-skilled, and high-paying careers necessary to continue to grow the Nebraska economy. The Colleges support a variety of businesses and industries in Nebraska and benefit the state by contributing to an expanded economy and improved quality of life for all Nebraskans. The benefits created by the NSCS extend to the state government through increased tax revenues and public sector savings.

The NSCS added $1.4 billion in income to the Nebraska economy during the year of analysis, which is equal to the sum of operations spending, student spending, and alumni impact. For context, the $1.4 billion impact was equal to approximately 0.9% of Nebraska's total gross state product (GSP). The NSCS’ total impact can also be expressed regarding jobs supported.

• The $1.4 billion impact supported 18,890 Nebraska jobs, using the jobs-to-sales ratios specific to each industry in the state.
• This means that one out of every 75 jobs in Nebraska is supported by the activities of the Colleges and their students.

The results of this study demonstrate that the State Colleges continue to have a significant positive economic impact not only on the individual lives of its students but for Nebraska as a whole. NSCS benefits Nebraska businesses by increasing consumer spending in the state and supplying a steady flow of qualified, educated workers to the workforce. The NSCS enriches students' lives by raising their lifetime earnings and helping them achieve their individual potential. The System benefits Nebraska taxpayers through increased tax receipts and reduced demand for government-supported social services. Finally, the NSCS benefits Nebraska by creating a more prosperous economy and generating a variety of savings through the improved lifestyles of its students.