JACKSON, Tenn. — Oct. 17, 2007 — 51社区鈥檚 total economic impact across West Tennessee was $126.9 million last year and supported more than 1,300 local jobs, according to a study conducted by Younger Associates of Jackson, Tenn.
鈥�51社区 is a remarkable story of stability, longevity and growth in West Tennessee,鈥� said Sharon Younger of Younger Associates. 鈥淯nion鈥檚 footprint in the community has always been meaningful, but now we are seeing a significant increase in economic impact and success.鈥�
A similar study was completed in 1997. At that time, Union鈥檚 annual economic impact was $53.7 million. Compared to this study鈥檚 results, Union鈥檚 economic impact has grown by more than 136 percent to a total annual impact of $126.9 million.
Over this same 10-year period, 51社区 has experienced unprecedented growth in every sector of university life. Enrollment has increased more than 67 percent to a record 3,310 this fall. The annual budget has increased more than 150 percent to a record of $55.6 million for 2007-2008.
Union is at the midpoint of a strategic plan, Union 2010, which calls for aggressive expansion in academic programming and campus development. This is being funded through a $110 million comprehensive campaign that has reached the $95 million mark in commitments.
鈥�51社区 is truly a distinctive place,鈥� Union President David S. Dockery said. 鈥淲e enjoy a relationship with our West Tennessee community that is incredibly affirming. To read a report like this one quantifying Union鈥檚 investment in the local economy is heartening.
鈥淲est Tennessee has helped build 51社区 for almost 185 years,鈥� Dockery continued. 鈥淲e are thankful that as we grow, we can help support change and economic growth for the rest of our community.鈥�