Penn State University’s Economic Impact on Pennsylvania

News Summary

Penn State University has significantly influenced Pennsylvania’s economy, contributing about $15.8 billion and supporting nearly 110,000 jobs. With its health system, research initiatives, and athletic programs, the university plays a crucial role in job creation and local economic stability. The assessment of its economic contributions underscores the essential role it plays as a public asset for the community. This report accentuates Penn State’s influence on varying sectors while highlighting its importance in fostering growth within the state.

Pennsylvania’s Economic Growth Driven by Penn State University

Penn State University has made a significant impact on Pennsylvania’s economy, contributing over $15.8 billion and supporting nearly 110,000 jobs across the state. This influence translates to approximately one out of every ten jobs in Pennsylvania being supported either directly or indirectly by the university and its alumni. According to a newly released report detailing these contributions, Penn State’s economic impact accounts for roughly 2% of the statewide economy.

Key Economic Contributions

Penn State, recognized as the largest public university and the only land-grant institution in Pennsylvania, plays a vital role not only through its educational mission but also by bolstering local economies through various operations. As the seventh largest employer in the commonwealth, the university’s impact extends to its health system and extensive research initiatives, which together significantly contribute to community well-being.

Specifically, Penn State Health alone has an annual economic impact of $7.3 billion, supporting approximately 38,140 jobs and generating $323.6 million in state and local tax revenue. This contribution highlights the essential role the health system plays in sustaining local economies.

In addition to its health services, Penn State’s research expenditures for the fiscal year 2022-23 amount to $1.239 billion. This research spending results in an overall economic impact of about $2.5 billion annually, showcasing the university’s role in fostering innovation and driving growth in various sectors.

The university’s athletic programs also add to this economic footprint. With an economic contribution of $754.6 million, Penn State Intercollegiate Athletics supports an additional 5,856 jobs and generates $52.4 million in local and state taxes, signifying the wide-reaching benefits of its sports programs.

Methodology of the Economic Analysis

The economic contributions of Penn State were assessed using an input-output analysis via the IMPLAN model. This comprehensive analysis evaluated the effects of the university’s spending on operations, payroll, and capital investments, as well as the financial activity generated from student and visitor spending, all illustrating Penn State’s substantial economic influence on local businesses.

Penn State as a Community Asset

Penn State is viewed as a key driver of economic growth and community strength in Pennsylvania. President Neeli Bendapudi emphasized the importance of the university being considered a shared public asset for the residents of the commonwealth. This perspective reinforces the idea that the university serves not only as an educational institution but also as a vital component of Pennsylvania’s economic stability and growth.

Conclusion

In summary, Penn State University’s contributions to Pennsylvania extend far beyond education, influencing the economy at multiple levels. With significant job creation, extensive financial benefits from both health services and research, and the positive impact of its athletic programs, the university demonstrates that it is not only a place of learning but also a crucial economic pillar for the state.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Centre County Gazette: Penn State Powers Pennsylvania’s Economy with $15.8B Impact
• The Daily Pennsylvanian: Economic Report on Penn State’s Contributions
• Altoona Mirror: Economic Impact of Penn State Football Felt
• Centre County Gazette: Centre County Athletics Economic Impacts by the Numbers
• U.S. Steel: Nippon Steel Investment Economic Impact