Georgia Southwestern powers $127 million economic impact to region

AMERICUS, GA (Aug. 20, 2026) — Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) generated $127.2 million in economic output across southwest Georgia in FY 2025, a 10.2% increase from the previous year, according to a new report from the University System of Georgia (USG).

The report also found that GSW supported 1,180 full- and part-time jobs across its seven-county regional economy, which includes Sumter, Schley, Lee, Macon, Crisp, Webster and Marion counties. Of those jobs, 358 were on campus and 822 were off campus in the private and public sectors.

GSW’s $127.2 million economic impact was generated by nearly $117.8 million in initial institutional and student spending. This included personnel services, University operating expenses and nearly $60 million in student spending throughout the region. GSW’s activity also generated $85.7 million in value added and $50.9 million in labor income.

GSW’s economic impact grew from $115.4 million in FY 2024 to $127.2 million in FY 2025, outpacing the USG systemwide growth rate of 8.9%.

The increase comes as GSW has experienced record-breaking enrollment in recent years. Higher enrollment influences all three major factors that shape the University's economic impact, including personnel growth, operational expenses and student spending. As more students choose GSW, the University invests in additional employees and resources to serve them, while students contribute directly to the regional economy through spending on housing, food, transportation, retail and other goods and services.

“Over the past five years, Georgia Southwestern’s economic impact has exceeded $540 million,” said GSW President Dr. Kerry J. Palmer. “That impact is a reflection of the people who make this university special: our students, faculty and staff, alumni, and the communities and partners who support us. About 80% of our graduates remain in Georgia, putting their knowledge and skills to work and strengthening communities across our state. At GSW, we are proud to prepare students for successful careers while contributing to the economic vitality of Southwest Georgia. When the university and our community work together, everyone benefits, and that shared commitment will continue to move our region forward.”

The annual study, conducted by the Selig Center for Economic Growth in the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business, found that USG and its institutions collectively generated $25.1 billion in economic output and supported more than 170,000 jobs statewide in FY 2025. The statewide economic impact represents an 8.9% increase over the previous year.

A related study demonstrates that the economic value of public higher education extends well beyond the immediate impact of university spending. USG estimates that members of the Class of 2025 who earn a bachelor’s degree will earn approximately $1.4 million more over their lifetimes than individuals with only a high school diploma.

“A USG degree isn’t just a diploma. It’s a game-changer for our students and a major win for Georgia’s economy,” USG Chancellor Sonny Perdue said. “Adding $25 billion to the state and giving our graduates a $1.4 million lifetime boost shows the real power of public higher education. When our students succeed, they put strong skills, a great work ethic and real value right back into Georgia communities.”

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