Middle Georgia State University had an estimated economic impact on the region of $251.6 million in fiscal year 2018, according to a study released Tuesday, August 20.
 
The study, conducted annually by the Selig Center for Economic Growth at the University of Georgia, also showed that MGA accounted for 2,878 direct and indirect jobs in the region. As a whole, the University System of Georgia (USG) in fiscal year 2018 had a $17.7 billion impact on communities across Georgia, an increase of almost 5 percent over the previous fiscal year. It also created 168,284 direct and indirect jobs, a nearly 3 percent increase over last fiscal year.
 
“This annual study shows, once again, that higher education is an extraordinary investment with strong returns,” said MGA President Dr. Christopher Blake. “We are proud of the economic impact that Middle Georgia State University has on the region and recognize, always, that the greatest returns are our graduates and the positive influence they have on the communities where they live and work. Our graduate rates of residency in Middle Georgia ensure that the University is paying it forward for years to come.”
 
USG Chancellor Dr. Steve Wrigley said, “While we remain focused on graduating more students, keeping college affordable and increasing our efficiency in delivering a quality education, we are proud our colleges and universities help power Georgia’s economy. USG and its 26 institutions play an important role in generating jobs and boosting businesses across the state, befitting the investment Georgia’s leaders have made in us.”
 
The study concluded that, on average, every dollar of initial spending by a USG institution generates an additional 47 cents for the economy of the region that hosts that college or university.