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Impact Since its founding, Heartland Community College has had a positive impact on the local community and the local economy. The College is a community asset that provides additional jobs, increases individual earning potential and trains skilled employees—resulting in positive outcomes that reach throughout District 540 and extend throughout the state and beyond. - Nine out of 10 area employers (94.2 percent) hired a Heartland Community College student within the past 10 years.* This local retention adds skills to the workforce and boosts area businesses, resulting in higher earning potential and a perpetual renewal of the workforce in multiple fields and industries from manufacturing to health care.
- Graduates of Heartland Community College who work full-time earn an average of $28,115 after completing their programs of study—more than 200 percent of the state’s minimum wage. In addition, a 25-year old Heartland Community College graduate can expect to increase total lifetime earnings by $391,102—nearly 33 percent more than the projected total lifetime earnings of those who have not continued their education beyond high school.*
- In Fiscal Year 2005 (July 1, 2004 - June 30, 2005), over 400 full- and part-time Heartland employees contributed more than $8.3 million to the local economy, and research indicates that an additional 700 jobs were created as a result of the College’s capital development projects between 2000 and 2005.*
- In 2007, nearly 800 degrees and certificates were awarded to Heartland students – compared with fewer than 400 in 2000.*
- Four out of 10 area workers participated in credit courses at Heartland Community College during the past 10 years.* Heartland Community College students gain skills that result in higher earnings and Heartland graduates enjoy even higher returns.
- Technology and health care are vital to the future prosperity of any 21st century community, and Heartland’s degree and training programs provide the resources necessary for sustaining these essential services within the district.
- Nine out of 10 Illinois community college graduates live, work and raise their families in Illinois.* By providing a place to increase personal and professional skills, Heartland Community College is cultivating community success.
Clearly, the College influences the local economy directly and indirectly. A thriving community college is an incentive to businesses that are interested in a location with affordable, quality educational options for its workforce. At Heartland Community College, area businesses can successfully operate with skilled employees as well as access local corporate training opportunities for their evolving industry needs. *Source: NIU Center for Governmental Studies; The Economic Impact of Heartland Community College; August 2007
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