Georgia Southwestern powers $115 million economic impact to region

AMERICUS, GA (August 12, 2025) — Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) contributed $115.4 million to the regional economy in fiscal year 2024, a 14.5% increase from the previous year, according to a new report from the University System of Georgia (USG). The report also shows GSW supported 1,195 full- and part-time jobs — adding 68 more jobs than last year.

The increase is largely driven by GSW’s record-breaking Fall 2024 enrollment of 3,704 students, up 8.5% from the previous year. Higher enrollment impacts all three factors that shape economic impact — the number of employees and personnel budget, operational spending, and student spending. More students have led to additional positions, larger operational budgets, and increased student spending in the region.

“Over the past five years, Georgia Southwestern’s economic impact has exceeded $500 million,” said GSW President Michelle Johnston, Ph.D. “We are proud to see this growth continue year after year, reflecting the hard work of our dedicated faculty, staff, and students. This financial impact is further amplified by the achievements of our exceptional graduates—about 84% of whom remain in Georgia—contributing their talents to the workforce and communities across the region. Coupled with our strong partnerships with local businesses, government, and community organizations, we are collectively shaping an incredibly bright and prosperous future for Southwest Georgia.”

The annual study, conducted by the Selig Center for Economic Growth in the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business, reported the USG and its 26 institutions provided a vital source of stability, contributing $23.1 billion to Georgia’s economy statewide — a 5.4% increase over the previous year.

A related study found that 2024 graduates earning a bachelor’s degree are projected to earn $1.4 million more over their lifetimes than individuals without a college degree.

“A degree from one of USG’s 26 public colleges and universities is a million-dollar deal for graduates and a billion-dollar boost for Georgia,” USG Chancellor Sonny Perdue said. “Students see real returns through higher earnings and better opportunities. Meanwhile, our institutions power Georgia’s economy and help local communities thrive.”

The USG’s total economic impact of $23.1 billion for fiscal year 2024, up from $21.9 billion in fiscal year 2023, includes $15.2 billion in initial spending by students and by USG’s 26 institutions on personnel and operating expenses. The remaining $7.9 billion is the multiplier impact of those funds in a local community.

Of the 168,635 jobs generated by USG institutions, approximately 32 percent of the positions are on-campus jobs and 68 percent are off-campus. The study found that for each job created by a USG institution on its campus, two additional jobs are created in the local community. Data also show the USG and its institutions create about the same employment impact in the state as Georgia’s top five employers combined. 

The full economic impact report and lifetime earnings report are available on the USG’s website.