Study Paints Picture of Indiana Wesleyan Impact

(Image courtesy of Indiana Wesleyan University)

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A report released by Indiana Wesleyan University shows the Marion-based school has a more than $72 million impact on the local economy. The research also suggests nearly 400 jobs in the community are spurred by university, student and visitor spending. The Indiana Business Research Center at the Indiana University Kelley School of Business conducted the study and says IWU has approximately 1,180 workers at its main campus, making it the Grant County’s second-biggest employer.

Vice President for Residential Education Operations John Jones says the study will help the university tell its story in and out of the county. He says the study illustrates IWU’s deep commitment to the community and that the university continues to be a significant partner. Jones says investments into the campus and expanding enrollment sends a message that "we’re continuing to make Marion and Grant County a place that can be a destination and not just a county to just pass through, but a county to come to, whether you intend to study or come and work, the university plays a significant role in that."

The data suggest 80 different community organizations or programs in the county benefited last year from nearly 2,200 student volunteering over 146,000 hours. IWU President David Wright says "Marion and Grant County have been home to Indiana Wesleyan University for more than 90 years, and the university has seen the city through boom times and lean times. Through it all, IWU has sought to be a good neighbor and a positive presence for the city."

The study focused specifically on the impact to the city of Marion and Grant County, but Jones says the university would like to look at the full statewide impact in the future.

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