Lawson State Fuels Growth with $368.1 Million Economic Impact
Lawson State Community College contributed $368.1 million in income to the local service area during the 2023-2024 fiscal year, according to a new economic impact analysis. This is equivalent to supporting 4,765 jobs, based on the report released today by the Alabama Community College System (ACCS).
"Just as Alabama's community colleges serve as economic engines statewide, Lawson State plays a vital role in driving our local economy," said President Dr. Cynthia T. Anthony, noting the long-term impact that Lawson students and alumni have in strengthening the regional workforce.
"Over the years, the thousands of students who have attended and graduated from Lawson State have made their mark---in their careers and in their net spending impact, too," she said. "In fact, former students who are employed in our region added $298.9 million in added income in 2023-24."
Download Lawson State's Economic Impact Fact Sheet
Economic impact is central to Lawson State's mission. With campuses in Bessemer and Birmingham, the college has spent more than 75 years providing affordable, accessible education while enhancing the quality of life in surrounding communities.
"From enrolling record-breaking numbers of traditional and nontraditional students in new and evolving programs to making ongoing capital improvements, Lawson State is driving growth and positive change," Dr. Anthony added. "When we succeed, everyone benefits, including students, alumni, employers, local businesses, and communities throughout Jefferson and Shelby counties."
Alabama's community colleges generate $8.1 billion for the state's economy
The FY 2023-24 economic impact study was conducted by Lightcast, Inc., a global leader in labor market analytics. Researchers found that ACCS institutions, including Lawson State, contributed a combined $8.1 billion to the state economy, equivalent to 3% of Alabama's total gross state product.
"The ACCS enriches students' lives by increasing their lifetime earnings and helping them achieve their individual potential," the report states. According to the data, the average ACCS associate degree graduate from FY 2023-24 will earn $9,200 more annually than someone with only a high school diploma or equivalent working in Alabama.
The study segmented results into four key areas: operations spending, construction
spending, student spending, and alumni impact. 
Key Lawson State highlights
Employment & Payroll: Lawson State employed 397 full-time and part-time faculty and staff, with payroll earnings totaling $20.4 million, much of which was spent locally on groceries, housing, dining, and household expenses.
College Operations: The college spent $18 million on facilities, supplies, and professional services (excluding construction).
Construction Impact: Lawson State's construction spending generated $27.2 million in added income for the local economy. That's the equivalent of 290 jobs!
Student Spending: About 16% of Lawson State's credit students came from outside the region. The spending of those who relocated and were retained contributed $8.7 million in added income to the service area.
Alumni Impact: The net impact of Lawson State alumni employed in the regional workforce totaled $298.9 million in FY 2023-24.
In response to the statewide research, ACCS Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker emphasized the value of community college students who graduate, secure good paying jobs, and reinvest in their local communities.
"Businesses across the state rely on them to keep operations strong," he said in an ACCS news release. "No other entity has a greater reach in education and workforce training, and we are committed to ensuring every student leaves our colleges prepared to contribute to their communities, their industries, and Alabama's economic growth."
