Calhoun Community College powers North Alabama economy with $802.8M impact

DECATUR — Calhoun Community College isn’t just shaping futures, it’s helping drive Alabama’s economy with an $802.8 million economic impact, according to a study by Lightcast, a labor market analytics firm.

This substantial contribution represents nearly 1.8% of the total gross regional product of the college’s service area, which includes Madison, Morgan, Limestone, and Lawrence counties, supporting 10,627 jobs across diverse industries.

“Calhoun Community College is more than an educational institution; we are an economic engine for North Alabama,” said Calhoun President Dr. Jimmy Hodges. “We are incredibly proud to contribute to the growth and prosperity of our region. Whether students prefer in-person, online, or hybrid learning, Calhoun is here to meet them where they are, offering flexible options for those with demanding schedules.”

Calhoun’s impact is multifaceted, reflecting the college’s role as an educator, employer, and community partner:

• Alumni Impact: The college’s alumni generated $723.3 million in added income for the regional economy in FY 2023-24, supporting 9,274 jobs.
• Operations Spending: With 915 full-time and part-time faculty and staff, 88% residing within the service area, Calhoun’s payroll of $46.4 million and additional expenditures contributed $58.5 million to the local economy, supporting 1,017 jobs.
• Construction Impact: Investments in campus infrastructure added $9.9 million, supporting 130 jobs.
• Student Spending: The spending habits of relocated and retained students contributed $11.1 million to the economy, supporting 206 jobs.

For every dollar invested by students, Calhoun delivers $4.60 in higher future earnings, the study said. Graduates with an associate degree from Calhoun can expect annual earnings $10,800 higher than those with only a high school diploma, amounting to $421,200 in additional lifetime income.

The local success mirrors the broader economic influence of the Alabama Community College System (ACCS), which contributes $8.1 billion annually to Alabama’s economy, supporting 114,043 jobs, or one in every 26 jobs statewide.

“Our students and graduates are working, earning, and reinvesting in Alabama’s communities,” said ACCS Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker. “Businesses across the state rely on them to keep operations strong. No other entity has a greater reach in education and workforce training, and we are committed to ensuring every student leaves our colleges prepared to contribute to their communities, their industries, and Alabama’s economic growth.”