NEWTON, N.J. (Sussex County) — Sussex County Community College contributed nearly $98.7 million to the regional economy, supporting more than 1,600 jobs across the area, according to a new economic impact and return on investment study released by the college.
The analysis was conducted in partnership with Lightcast, a national firm specializing in higher education economic impact modeling. The study examined several factors including the college’s operational spending, construction activity, student spending and the increased earnings of alumni working in the region.
According to the report, the college’s activities and workforce development efforts support 1,603 jobs across Sussex County and surrounding areas and account for about 1.7% of the region’s gross regional product.
The largest portion of the economic impact comes from former students who remain in the workforce locally. The study found that alumni impact accounts for $81.7 million in added regional income.
Additional contributions include:
- $14.6 million from operations spending
- $1.4 million from student spending
- $1 million from construction activity
College officials said the findings highlight the institution’s role in workforce development and economic growth in Sussex County.
“This study affirms what our community experiences every day: Sussex County Community College is a powerful engine for economic opportunity and regional vitality,” said Cory Homer, President of Sussex County Community College. “Our mission extends beyond education; we are strengthening the workforce, supporting local employers, and creating measurable value for students and taxpayers.”
The study also examined the return on investment for students and taxpayers.
According to the analysis, students receive an estimated $3.80 in annual return for every dollar spent on their education at Sussex County Community College, representing a 12.4% rate of return through increased lifetime earnings.
Taxpayers also see economic benefits, with the report estimating $2 in annual return for every dollar invested in college operations, largely through increased tax revenues and reduced reliance on public services.
Lightcast, which conducted the analysis, has completed more than 3,000 economic impact studies for educational institutions nationwide and provides workforce analytics tools used by millions of students and educators.
