A new study shows that Northwestern State is a major driver of economic growth in central and northwest Louisiana. President James Genovese says the study by labor market analytics firm Lightcast shows a total economic impact of almost $500 million.
“We actually support 7,000 jobs. Matter of fact, 1 in 58 jobs in a 10-parish area is provided for by Northwestern,” Genovese said.
Genovese says Northwestern has proven to be a great investment to the taxpayers in the region, saying for every dollar they spend, they get $1.60 back. He says the study also shows how students benefit financially from their Northwestern bachelor’s degrees.
“If you get a bachelor’s degree from Northwestern, it boosts your earnings $21,900 a year over a high school diploma,” Genovese noted.
Genovese says it’s not just the taxpayers who benefit by investing in the university – the tuition-paying students greatly benefit as well.
“For every dollar that is spent for a student, you’re at Northwestern, they’re going to gain a return of their investment of $4.70. The return on investment for students is 18.2%,” Genovese said.
