CHADRON – Chadron State College remains a key driver of economic prosperity in Nebraska, contributing to individual student success as well as the vitality and sustainability of rural communities and the state according to a recent economic impact study by Lightcast for the Nebraska State College System (NSCS).

“These findings underscore the vital contributions Chadron, Peru, and Wayne State Colleges make,” said Dr. Paul Turman, Chancellor of the NSCS. “Behind every statistic are real people—students, alumni, and workers—who are helping Nebraska thrive.”

Chadron State College generated a total economic impact of $456.3 million during the 2022-23 fiscal year. CSC’s contributions support 6,227 jobs statewide, bolster businesses, and equip students with skills to enter high-demand and high-paying careers, according to Lightcast. The study highlights the influence the college has on the state’s economy through its operations, student spending, construction, and alumni contributions.

CSC added $34 million to Nebraska’s economy through payroll, local spending, and business activities. Out-of-state and in-state students, through groceries, transportation, and other household expenses, added $3.1 million in income while supporting 48 jobs. Spending on construction projects generated $977,900 in income, supporting 12 jobs. Thousands of alumni contributed $418.3 million to the economy by meeting workforce needs and productivity.

The report indicates that CSC delivers significant returns on investment for students, taxpayers, and society. For every dollar students invest in their education, they can expect $5.20 in higher future earnings. Taxpayers see a $2.30 return for each public dollar invested, and society benefits eightfold, with $551.7 million in total social benefits, including increased income, business output, and public savings.

For more details, including the full results of the economic impact study, visit www.nscs.edu/workingforNE.