A new report from Florida TaxWatch, an independent, nonpartisan research institute, reveals that Indian River State College generates substantial economic benefits for its service area (Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee Counties) and the state of Florida. The report, titled "An Independent Assessment of the Economic Impacts of Indian River State College," underscores the college’s role as a key driver of workforce development and economic growth in the Treasure Coast region and beyond.
“Indian River State College’s impact on our community and region extends far beyond higher education,” said Indian River State College President Dr. Timothy E. Moore. “The Florida TaxWatch report highlights our commitment to providing high-quality, affordable education while also serving as a catalyst for economic growth in our region. In doing so, we are not only transforming the lives of our students but also strengthening the economic fabric of our community. This report underscores the vital role that Indian River State College plays in shaping the future of the Treasure Coast and beyond."
Florida TaxWatch President and CEO Dominic M. Calabro commented, “Indian River State College is an incredible asset to the Treasure Coast community and the entire Sunshine State. Like other members of the Florida College System, Indian River State College serves as the foundation for the community's economic growth and prosperity by providing a wide range of high-quality educational opportunities for their students at an affordable cost, and its innovations and expanding economic impact is both impressive and a shining example of what Florida’s great colleges can accomplish. At Florida TaxWatch, we understand that postsecondary learning is critical to workforce development, which is why we encourage these institutions – and Indian River State College in particular – to maintain their dynamic and fiscally viable operations, and also urge stakeholders to continue supporting and investing in their important work. Our state’s economic success depends on it.”
"The Florida TaxWatch report illuminates the far-reaching impact of Indian River State College on our region's economy and workforce,” said Dr. Angela Browning, vice-president of research, governmental affairs, and institutional effectiveness. “Our innovative approach to higher education, coupled with strategic partnerships, is creating a ripple effect that extends well beyond our campuses. This report reaffirms our commitment to being not only an educational institution but also a driving force for economic vitality and social mobility in the Treasure Coast region."
The report emphasizes Indian River State College’s role in addressing critical workforce needs, particularly in high-demand fields such as healthcare, information technology, and advanced manufacturing. Through programs like the Rebuild Florida Workforce Recovery Training initiative, Indian River State College is actively contributing to developing a skilled workforce aligned with regional economic needs.
Florida TaxWatch's analysis utilized IMPLAN economic modeling software to estimate the direct, indirect, and induced economic benefits of Indian River State College's academic programs and partnerships. The comprehensive approach considered factors such as college operations, student spending, alumni earnings, and the impact of specific partnership initiatives.
The full report "An Independent Assessment of the Economic Impacts of Indian River State College" is available on the Florida TaxWatch website. It provides detailed breakdowns of economic impacts, methodologies used, and additional insights into Indian River State College’s contributions to the Florida economy.
About Indian River State College:
Indian River State College is a public state college based in Fort Pierce, Florida serving Florida's Treasure Coast. It offers bachelor's degrees, associate degrees, technical certificates, applied technology diplomas, and workforce training programs.
About Florida TaxWatch:
As an independent nonprofit government watchdog for more than 45 years, Florida TaxWatch works to improve productivity and accountability within Florida government through research that recommends productivity enhancements statewide.