Savannah State University (SSU) continues to play a vital role in the economic development of the region, contributing an impressive $164.4 million to Georgia’s economy
in fiscal year 2024, according to a new report released by the Selig Center for Economic Growth at the University of Georgia.
The report, which measures the economic contributions of the University System of Georgia’s (USG) 26 public colleges and universities, shows that SSU’s economic impact increased by 9.3% compared to FY 2023 — a strong indicator of the university’s growing influence on the local and state economies.
The study highlights the combined effects of institutional spending, student spending, and capital investment. At SSU, these dollars flow directly into the regional economy through salaries and wages, operating expenses, student expenditures, and local purchasing.
“For every job on campus, two more are supported off-campus through goods and services related to the university,” said SSU President Dr. Jermaine Whirl. “This report affirms what we already know — that Savannah State is not only educating future leaders, but also serving as a powerful economic engine for the region.”
The positive economic impacts that USG institutions have are statewide. Across Georgia, the University System generated:
· $23.1 billion in total economic output (sales),
· $16.5 billion in value-added (gross regional product),
· $10.9 billion in labor income,
· 168,635 full- and part-time jobs (representing 3.3% of all non-farm jobs in the state).
Of that total, SSU’s $164.4 million impact represents a critical contribution to the vitality of the Southeast Georgia region, including the counties of Chatham, Effingham, Bryan, Liberty and Bulloch. SSU’ combined effects of spending include:
· $65.6 million in student spending
· $60.8 million in personnel services
· $37.8 million in operating expenses
Furthermore, the report illustrates the power of the economic multiplier: every dollar spent by a USG institution translates into an additional 52 cents in economic activity within the surrounding community. This means that university-related spending doesn’t just stay on campus—it circulates through restaurants, housing, transportation services, local retail, and healthcare providers.
Looking beyond the dollars, SSU not only generates revenue but also sustains jobs. While exact employment numbers specific to SSU were not detailed in the system-wide summary, the report confirms that for every million dollars spent, approximately 11 jobs are supported across the state. This job creation includes both direct university employment and secondary jobs in the community.
Moreover, SSU’s cultural programs, research, and public service initiatives contribute to the quality of life for residents and serve as a magnet for innovation, partnerships, and community engagement.
While the study focuses on short-term economic activity, it also acknowledges the long-term value of higher education. Degrees awarded by USG institutions, including those from SSU, significantly increase lifetime earnings, elevate local workforce readiness, and support the growth of high-skill industries.
Looking ahead, as Georgia continues to prioritize investment in higher education, Savannah State University, under the leadership of President Dr. Jermaine Whirl, remains a central component of regional development strategies. Whether through academic programs, student engagement, or local partnerships, SSU stands as a cornerstone of economic strength and opportunity in the Coastal Empire.
For the full 2025 Economic Impact Study by the Selig Center for Economic Growth, Terry College of Business, University of Georgia, visit www.selig.uga.edu.
About Savannah State University Established in 1890, Savannah State University is the oldest public historically Black college and university in Georgia and the first institution of higher learning in the city of Savannah. Students select majors from 30 undergraduate and four graduate programs in five colleges — Business Administration, Education, Sciences and Humanities, Engineering Technology and Computing, and Media, Arts and Communication. For more information, visit savannahstate.edu.
