Willamette University is one of 12 private, nonprofit colleges and universities that collectively generated $3.5 billion in economic impact for the state of Oregon during the 2020-21 fiscal year, according to a new report by Lightcast.
The twelve institutions, all part of the Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities (the Alliance), contributed to Oregon’s economic growth through job creation, tax revenue and other economic activity. Willamette and the other Alliance members support over 43,000 jobs, or one out of every 59 jobs in Oregon.
The report also showed significant economic benefits for students. Students at Oregon’s private, nonprofit colleges and universities experienced a cumulative present value of $3.1 billion in increased earnings over their working lives. This translates to a return of $3.50 in higher future earnings for every dollar students invest in their education.
“These numbers are only the latest evidence that Willamette’s faculty, staff, students and alumni are making a profound impact in Oregon, the Pacific Northwest and beyond,” said Willamette University President Steve Thorsett. “This impact is a testament to the transformative power of a Willamette education where students turn knowledge into action.”
