New Statewide Report Highlights the Economic Impact of John A. Logan College on the Regional Economy
Published on April 16, 2026
A new statewide report released by the Illinois Community College Board highlights the significant economic and social impact of John A. Logan College, underscoring the institution’s role in driving regional growth and student success.
The report, issued in recognition of Community College Month in April, examines how John A. Logan College contributes to the economy across its district and throughout Illinois. Findings show the college generated a total economic impact of $244.3 million in fiscal year 2023–24, supporting 3,616 jobs in the region.
College officials say the data reinforces the institution’s long-standing mission of preparing students for the workforce while strengthening the local economy.
“We are living up to our mission to enrich lives through learning and community engagement, and this report illustrates how John A. Logan College continues to be a powerful economic engine for southern Illinois,” said JALC President, Dr. Kirk Overstreet. “From educating students to supporting local businesses, the impact extends far beyond the classroom.”
The report identifies three primary drivers of economic impact: operations spending, student spending, and alumni contributions.
In fiscal year 2023–24, the college employed 381 full- and part-time faculty and staff, with approximately 83% residing within the College’s district. Total payroll reached $26.7 million, while an additional $17.4 million was spent on facilities, supplies, and services. Together, those expenditures generated $29.3 million in added regional income and supported 407 jobs.
Student spending also contributed to the local economy. About 13% of students came from outside the district, many of whom relocated to attend the college. Combined with retained local students, their spending on housing, food, and transportation added $2.6 million in income and supported local jobs.
The largest impact came from alumni whose education and training have translated into higher earnings and greater workforce productivity. Former students contributed $212.4 million in added income to the regional economy, supporting more than 3,100 jobs.
Overall, the college’s impact accounts for approximately 2.9% of the region’s total gross regional product, with one out of every 26 jobs in the district linked to the college and its students.
Beyond direct economic contributions, the report also highlights strong returns on investment for students, taxpayers, and society.
Students who attended John A. Logan College in fiscal year 2023–24 invested a combined $10.4 million in their education. In return, they are expected to see $72.3 million in higher lifetime earnings, equating to a benefit-cost ratio of 7-to-1. The average associate degree graduate earns approximately $6,900 more annually than someone with only a high school diploma.
Taxpayers also benefit from the college’s impact. The report estimates $28.6 million in total taxpayer benefits, including increased tax revenues and reduced demand for public services such as health care, income assistance, and the justice system.
From a broader perspective, the college generates $256.4 million in total social benefits across Illinois, driven by increased earnings, business productivity, and societal savings.
“The economic impact highlighted in this study would be even greater today,” said Overstreet. “We have three major grant-funded construction projects currently underway with local contractors and supplies purchased from local businesses. The graduates from the programs that will benefit from the new facilities will impact our economy for years to come.”
The study concludes that John A. Logan College delivers substantial value to all stakeholders, including students and employers, taxpayers, and the broader community.
“The results demonstrate that the college is a strong investment,” the report states. “Its contributions support economic prosperity, improve quality of life, and help build a more skilled and competitive workforce.”
The analysis was based on fiscal year 2023–24 data from the Illinois Community College Board and the college, as well as labor market data and economic modeling from Lightcast.