YORKTON, SK — Suncrest College is a key driver of economic growth in the region, adding $119.8 million in income to the Suncrest College service region in the 2023-24 fiscal year, according to a new economic impact study.
The study, conducted by Lightcast, analyzes the broad-reaching benefits of Suncrest College’s operations, student and alumni contributions, along with its research activities. The report highlights the College’s role as a major employer, a workforce development hub, and a catalyst for regional economic activity.
“Suncrest College is more than an educational institution, it’s a powerful economic engine,” said Corinna Stevenson, Board Chair. “This study demonstrates the significant return on investment for students, taxpayers, and the wider community.”
Key Findings:
• Operations Impact: The College employed 361 full- and part-time staff, with 86 per cent residing in the region. Combined with operational spending, this contributed $16.9 million to the local economy.
• Student Spending Impact: Students attending the College generated $9 million in added income.
• Alumni Impact: Former Suncrest College students who remain in the region contributed $93 million in added income, equivalent to supporting 812 local jobs.
• Research Impact: Research expenditures generated an additional $900,000 in income.
• Graduate Earnings: On average, a Suncrest College graduate with a bachelor’s degree earns $26,200 more per year than someone with a high school diploma.
The study also found that for every dollar invested in Suncrest College, students have a return on investment of 14.2 per cent, taxpayers have a return on investment of 21.3 per cent in added tax revenue and public sector savings, and society benefits by $6.6 million through increased economic activity and social savings.
“Beyond providing high-quality education and training, Suncrest College strengthens our region’s workforce, supports businesses, and enhances the economic vitality of the region,” added Alison Dubreuil, Suncrest College President & CEO.
“These findings reinforce the importance of continued investment in post-secondary education.”
For more details, the full report is available on SuncrestCollege.ca.
About Suncrest College: Suncrest College was established in 2023 as a result of merging Cumberland College and Parkland College. The college offers a superior learning experience with locations in Canora, Esterhazy, Fort Qu’Appelle, Kamsack, Melfort, Melville, Nipawin, Tisdale, and Yorkton. Students can choose from a wide array of educational options, including university degrees, skills training diplomas and certificates, trades training, high school upgrading, employability programs, safety training, corporate/professional development, along with taking part in various applied research projects led by the College.
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For interviews or questions regarding this release, please contact:
Brady Lang, Communications Specialist
306-620-9735| [email protected]