MOBILE, Ala., February 12, 2025 – Students and alumni of Bishop State Community College contributed $263.8 million to the state’s economy, an amount equal to about 1.0% of the region’s total gross regional product, according to an independent report.

“Bishop State Community College’s impact goes far beyond the classroom,” says Bishop State President Olivier Charles. “This report shows that our students, faculty, and staff are integral to the growth and success of our local economy. We are proud to contribute to a thriving workforce that drives innovation and progress in the region.”

The report produced by Lightcast, a global leader in labor market analytics, also states Bishop State supports 3,585 jobs in Alabama. For perspective, the activities of Bishop State and its students support one out of every 75 jobs in the Bishop State service area.

While Bishop State plays a role in attracting and retaining talent, its greatest impact comes from its graduates. In FY 2023-24, Bishop State alumni generated $203.5 million in added income, supporting the equivalent of 2,653 jobs in Alabama.

Over the years, Bishop State has become a vital training entity in the region. Its graduates and students have gained valuable skills and knowledge, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to Alabama’s workforce.

The report shows that for every dollar students invest in a two-year education with Bishop State, they can expect to gain $5.90 in lifetime earnings. Bishop State generates more tax dollars than it takes. State taxpayers will see $2.10 in added tax revenue and public sector savings for every dollar invested into the system. Society will also benefit $5.80 in added incomes and social savings for every dollar.

“Our mission has always been to empower our students with the skills they need to succeed, and this economic impact study reaffirms the lasting value of a Bishop State education,” says Charles. “The financial and social return on investment is not just a benefit to our graduates but to our entire community.”

Additional report highlights:

• The expenditures of relocated and retained students in FY 2023-24 added $7.4 million in income to the region’s economy.
• The average associate degree graduate from Bishop State in FY 2023-24 will see annual earnings $9,000 higher than a person with a high school diploma or equivalent working in Alabama.
• Bishop State’s alumni impact provides the region an economic boost similar to hosting the World Series 31 times.

Students and alumni of the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) contributed $8.1 billion to the state’s economy, an amount equal to about 3% of Alabama’s total gross state product.

Lightcast analyzed data using FY 2023-24 academic and financial reports from Alabama’s community and technical colleges, the Alabama Technology Network, as well as industry and employment data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the U.S. Census Bureau.