Published:
Black Hawk College has released new findings from a comprehensive economic impact study showing the college contributed nearly $291 million in total income to the local economy during the 2023-24 fiscal year.
The study, conducted by Lightcast, demonstrates the college’s significant return on investment to its major stakeholder groups – students, taxpayers, society and employers.
“This report makes clear that Black Hawk College is more than a place of learning,” said Dr. Jeremy Thomas, President of Black Hawk College.
“For nearly 80 years, we have been a driver of economic growth in our region. When we invest in our students, we are investing in our workforce, our employers, and the long-term strength of our communities,” he said.
Dr. Thomas also highlighted the increase in enrollment as a reflection of this impact.
“Black Hawk College grew by 9 percent from 2024-25 because more students are making BHC their first college of choice. That growth reflects our role as a driver of opportunity for our students, our workforce and our region,” he said.
Why it matters
Black Hawk College serves as an economic engine for the region, contributing nearly $291 million to the local economy. Black Hawk College serves nine counties in northwestern Illinois with a population of more than 225,000 residents.
During the 2023-24 fiscal year, Black Hawk College served over 8,000 students. The college plays a significant role in educating the regional workforce, offering more than 85 degree and certificate programs.
Moreover, an estimated 98% of students remain in the region after completing their studies at BHC, ensuring investments in workforce development stay local.
By the numbers
Here’s how Black Hawk College adds economic value to the region:
- Supported 3,882 local jobs, representing one out of every 50 jobs in the region.
- Generated $254.5 million in added income from alumni currently working in the region, equivalent to supporting 3,183 jobs.
- Added $25.9 million to the economy through direct operations spending across the region.
- Employed nearly 600 full-time and part-time faculty and staff members, with a payroll spent locally on household-related expenses.
Return on investments
An investment analysis found that every $1 invested in Black Hawk College to educate students returns:
- $3.50 in higher future earnings for students who invest in their education.
- The average associate degree graduate from BHC will see an increase in earnings of $7,100 each year compared to a person with a high school diploma or equivalent working in Illinois.
- $3.10 in benefits that will accrue to Illinois over the course of students’ careers for as long as they remain employed in the state.
In total, taxpayers gained $34.8 million in added tax revenue and public sector savings.
Learn more about Black Hawk College’s impact.
Black Hawk College serves all or part of Bureau, Henderson, Henry, Knox, Marshall, Mercer, Rock Island, Stark and Whiteside counties.
About the study
The economic impact study is part of a broader statewide effort led by the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) to measure and communicate the impact of community colleges across Illinois.
ICCB data shows that Illinois’ community colleges are a powerful driver of the state’s economy, generating $27.2 billion in total economic impact and supporting 324,273 jobs statewide.
The report, The Economic Value of the Community Colleges of Illinois, reflects fiscal year 2023-24 data and underscores the critical role community colleges – including Black Hawk College – play in workforce development, business growth and economic mobility across the state.