KASKASKIA COLLEGE HIGHLIGHTS ROLE IN $27.2 BILLION STATEWIDE ECONOMIC IMPACT, SUPPORTING MORE THAN 324,000 JOBS

New study reinforces value of Kaskaskia College and impact across southern Illinois

CENTRALIA, IL (April 30, 2026) - 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 202324 data and underscores the critical role community colleges - including Kaskaskia College - play in workforce development, business growth, and economic mobility across the state.

"Kaskaskia College plays a vital role in strengthening the economic foundation of our region by preparing a highly skilled workforce and supporting the evolving needs of local industry," said George Evans, President of Kaskaskia College. "Through strong partnerships and innovative programs, we are not only transforming lives through education but also contributing to long-term economic growth across the communities we serve."

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."

KASKASKIA COLLEGE LOCAL IMPACT

Kaskaskia College plays a critical role in regional workforce development, serving as a direct pipeline between education and employment across southern Illinois. Through partnerships with healthcare providers, manufacturers, and emerging industries, the College aligns its programs with workforce demands, ensuring students graduate with in-demand skills. From hands-on technical training in fields such as healthcare, agriculture, and welding to apprenticeship programs and customized employer training, Kaskaskia College remains deeply embedded in the success of local businesses and the long-term sustainability of the regional economy.

According to the College's most recent economic impact study, Kaskaskia College generated $132.7 million in added income for the District 501 economy in fiscal year 202223, supporting more than 2,000 jobs across the region. This impact represents approximately 2.5% of the total gross regional product, demonstrating the College's significant influence on economic activity. The largest share of this impact comes from alumni who continue to live and work in the region, contributing over $105 million in added income through increased productivity and earnings, further reinforcing the College's long-term value to the local workforce and economy.

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 202324

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. 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," said Jim Reed, President of the Illinois Community College Trustees Association.

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 Kaskaskia 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.