Continually ranked among the top investments for college students, Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) is also a major economic engine in the local and regional economy. WSSU is responsible for pumping more than $233 million into the North Carolina economy, according to a national study commissioned by the United Negro College Fund (UNCF).
The study, the most far-reaching in 11 years, looked at the overall economic impact of 100 of the nation’s historically Black colleges and universities, including WSSU and nine other North Carolina institutions.
The study also found that:
- WSSU creates 2,239 on and off campus jobs.
- WSSU’s 1,530 graduates in 2014 will generate total lifetime earnings of $4 billion over their lifetimes.
“Winston-Salem State University is a valuable economic engine, not only locally but for the entire state of North Carolina,” said Elwood L. Robinson, WSSU chancellor. “The positive impact on our region extends far beyond the students we serve. We’re creating stronger communities and supporting the private sector by providing graduates with the critical thinking and analytical problem solving skills needed in today’s workplace.”
Overall, HBCUs generate a total annual economic impact of $14.8 billion, according to the study.
Originally published November 14, 2017.