Oklahoma City (January 22, 2019) – Today, the State Chamber Research Foundation released “The Economic Role of Oklahoma’s Public Colleges and Universities,” examining the economic output and impact our public colleges and universities have in the state. The study, commissioned by the State Chamber Research Foundation, reveals that Oklahoma’s higher education system supported $8.21 billion of total economic output in FY2016.

“Oklahoma’s public colleges and universities serve as an anchor in their cities, towns and regions as they contribute to the stability of their communities,” said State Chamber Research Foundation Executive Director, Dr. Jennifer Lepard. “The study shows what we’ve known to be true for a while—increased higher education is an underlying source of economic growth, both in the U.S. and internationally.”

“The impact of Oklahoma’s colleges and universities goes far beyond their campus boundaries,” said State Chamber of Oklahoma President and CEO, Fred Morgan. “Oklahoma’s colleges and universities drive local economies and serve as important employers in cities and our state. As we strive to make Oklahoma a top 10 business-friendly state, we are thankful to have them as a vital part of our state’s business community as we work to further Oklahoma’s goals of preparing a modern workforce for the jobs of tomorrow.”

To read the full report, click here.