Gadsden, AL – Gadsden State Community College (GSCC) continues to serve as a major force for economic growth and community development across Alabama. According to the latest Economic Impact Study for Fiscal Year 2023-2024 conducted by Lightcast, a global leader in labor market analytics, GSCC contributed an impressive $270.5 million in total added income to the regional economy. This figure represents approximately 2.3% of the total gross regional product of the GSCC Service Area, reinforcing the institution’s role as a cornerstone of regional prosperity.
Key Areas of Economic Impact:
- Operations Spending Impact: GSCC’s payroll and benefits, which sustain daily operations, generated $42.5 million.
- Construction Spending Impact: Investments in capital projects, facility maintenance, and campus growth contributed $7.9 million.
- Student Spending Impact: The expenditures of relocated and retained students in the region resulted in a $2.5 million impact.
- Alumni Impact: Former students employed within the GSCC service area added a substantial $217.6 million to the economy.
In total, the $270.5 million impact is equivalent to supporting 4,415 jobs. This means that one out of every 36 jobs in the GSCC Service Area is linked to the activities of the college and its students.
“At Gadsden State, we believe education is the foundation of a thriving community,” said Dr. Kathy Murphy, President of GSCC. “These numbers reflect our commitment not just to academic excellence but to the well-being and prosperity of the communities we serve. Every student success story translates into a stronger workforce and a more vibrant local economy.”
Dr. Murphy further emphasized GSCC’s broader mission: “Our mission extends beyond the classroom. We are dedicated to fostering innovation, supporting local businesses, and enhancing the quality of life throughout the region. This report highlights the value of investing in education—an investment that yields measurable, long-term benefits for everyone.”
Gadsden State Community College remains dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality education that fuels economic and social advancement throughout Alabama.
