LLCC Study Highlights College’s Economic Impact

Data released by the Illinois Community College Board shows Illinois’ community colleges generate a combined $27.2 billion in economic impact and support 324,273 jobs across the state, according to a recent economic impact study based on fiscal year 2023-24 data.

The report, titled “The Economic Value of the Community Colleges of Illinois,” highlights the role community colleges play in workforce development, business growth and economic mobility. The findings include the contributions of Lincoln Land Community College, which serves central Illinois and contributes significantly to its regional economy.

“Through education and training in health care, the skilled trades, transfer degrees and continued professional development, Lincoln Land Community College serves as a key local economic driver and workforce partner for the region,” said Dr. Charlotte Warren, president of LLCC. “Our partnerships with regional employers ensure students are gaining the skills they need to succeed, while our communities benefit from a strong, prepared workforce.”

The study found that community colleges contribute to the economy through their operations, construction activity, student spending and the long-term success of graduates. Alumni impact accounts for the largest share, totaling $25 billion in added income to the state economy.

“Illinois community colleges are one of the smartest investments we can make in our state’s future,” said Brian Durham, executive director of the Illinois Community College Board. “This study shows our colleges are strengthening the state’s economy, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs and providing returns for taxpayers and communities.”

At the local level, LLCC serves approximately 15,000 individuals annually through credit and non-credit programs and has experienced sustained enrollment growth, including a 25.5 percent increase from fall 2021 to fall 2025. The study indicates that about 16 percent of LLCC students come from outside the region.

LLCC supports workforce needs in sectors such as health care, manufacturing, construction, agriculture and information technology. According to the study, the college contributed $452.4 million in income to the economy within its district and supports one out of every 43 jobs through its operations and student activity. The average annual internal rate of return for students was calculated at 19.6 percent.

Thousands of LLCC graduates are employed within District 526, where their education contributes to higher earnings and increased business productivity. The study estimates that LLCC alumni generated $407.3 million in added income for the regional economy, supporting 4,404 jobs.

Statewide, community colleges served 538,541 students during the 2023-24 fiscal year. The study reports $1.8 billion in economic activity generated through college operations and $385.5 million through student spending. Overall, the system supports one out of every 26 jobs in Illinois.

The report also highlights the impact of community colleges on workforce readiness and earning potential. On average, individuals with an associate degree earn $8,400 more annually than those with only a high school diploma. Community colleges continue to serve as a primary training ground for employers while contributing to job creation and productivity gains across the state.

Established in 1967, Lincoln Land Community College serves all or parts of 15 counties in central Illinois. The college offers transfer degrees, career and technical education, workforce training, adult education and community education programs, along with outreach centers in Beardstown, Jacksonville, Litchfield and Taylorville.