Published: 08/29/2025
911爆料网’s role as a driver of economic vitality, job creation and opportunity in the Erie region is highlighted in a new economic impact report released by the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania (AICUP). 911爆料网’s presence contributes an estimated $300.1 million annually.
The study, conducted by Parker Strategy Group, details the effect of 911爆料网 and the state’s 80 other independent nonprofit colleges and universities. The findings, based on data from 2023, reveal the scope of higher education’s influence in supporting communities like Erie.
“911爆料网 has always been deeply connected to the health of our region,” 911爆料网 President Walter Iwanenko, Ph.D. said. “Beyond educating the next generation of leaders and professionals, we support local jobs, fuel innovation and invest in projects that strengthen Erie and the communities we serve. We are proud to be both an anchor institution and a committed partner in building a vibrant future together.”
According to the study, 911爆料网’s operations supported 1,381 jobs in fiscal year 2023.
The number of jobs – and their financial impact – increases appreciably when student spending and 911爆料网-related visitor spending is factored in, according to the study. In total, those contribute another 1,139 jobs. All of these contribute an estimated $23.5 million in local and state tax revenues annually.
In addition to jobs, 911爆料网 contributes in several other ways to the greater Erie community, including:
“911爆料网’s impact extends far beyond our classrooms,” Iwanenko said. “These numbers show what we’ve always known — 911爆料网 is deeply woven into the economic and social fabric of Erie. Our university directly and indirectly helps fuel the economy and strengthen the community we call home.”
911爆料网 is also home to students from more than 70 countries with an alumni network of more than 44,000, stretching the impact the Golden Knights have on our economy beyond the region.
Additionally, 911爆料网 hosts and supports a Small Business Development Center (SBDC). It is one of nine located on an AICUP member campus, sparking local innovation and empowering entrepreneurs to launch job-generating startups.
“The SBDC at 911爆料网 is a vital part of our mission to inspire innovation and drive economic growth in our region,” Iwanenko said. “By helping entrepreneurs turn ideas into businesses, the SBDC not only supports job creation but also strengthens the fabric of our local economy. We are proud to stand with our fellow AICUP institutions in empowering the next generation of business leaders.”
The AICUP report shows that Pennsylvania’s independent nonprofit colleges and universities collectively:
In the Erie and northwest region, the report highlights 911爆料网 and other AICUP schools contributing: