At Penn Highlands Community College, we are dedicated to empowering our community through education and economic development. Contributing $20.8 million annually to our region, we are shaping a stronger workforce and fostering a brighter future for all.
This economic impact analysis, delivered to Penn Highlands in February 2026, was performed by the Center for Rural Pennsylvania in partnership with Penn Highlands Community College. They collaborated throughout this project, each providing the data necessary to formulate these impact estimates. The Center for Rural Pennsylvania is a bipartisan, bicameral legislative agency that serves as a resource for rural policy within the Pennsylvania General Assembly. It was created in 1987 under Act 16, the Rural Revitalization Act, to promote and sustain the vitality of Pennsylvania’s rural and small communities.
Key Findings: Our Regional Impact
Penn Highlands Community College plays a pivotal role as an economic driver for Blair, Cambria, Centre, Huntingdon, and Somerset counties. By providing accessible education, we generate measurable economic benefits that strengthen and enrich our local communities.
- Significant Economic Contribution: Penn Highlands generates a total net economic impact of $20.8 million within a five-county service region (Blair, Cambria, Centre, Huntingdon, and Somerset counties). This figure represents the added benefits produced directly by the College’s activities, above what would occur normally in the economy.
- High Return on Investment: For every $1.00 expended by Penn Highlands to operate and educate, $1.56 is returned to the regional economy. This value is driven by student spending, local supply chain support, and the economic activity of our graduates.
- Workforce Development: We employ 207 individuals directly. Furthermore, our operations support an additional 28 net jobs in local sectors such as finance, real estate, and professional services, highlighting the demand for a skilled workforce supported by our presence.
- Student Retention and Success: In 2024, we served over 3,000 students. Approximately 30% of these students would have left the area or bypassed higher education without Penn Highlands. Retaining these students generates a net economic impact of $7.6 million.
- Increased Earning Potential: Residents in our region with an associate’s degree or some college experience earn roughly 25% more than those with no higher education. This increase in earnings fuels long-term economic returns for our graduates and their communities.
Information for Our Community
For Prospective Students
Choosing Penn Highlands is an investment in your future and your community. By studying locally, you contribute to a vibrant regional economy while gaining skills that are in high demand. Our data shows that graduates enjoy significantly higher earning potential (roughly 25% more) compared to those with only a high school diploma. Join a network of students who are building careers and strengthening the local workforce.
For Current Students
Your presence at Penn Highlands does more than advance your education; it actively supports the local economy. Student spending alone contributes $7.6 million in additional GDP to our region. Whether you are at our main campus in Cambria County or one of our locations in Blair, Somerset, Huntingdon, or Centre counties, you are part of an institution that drives regional prosperity.
For Community Partners & Taxpayers
Penn Highlands responsibly stewards public funds. Penn Highlands generates an estimated $5.0 million in additional federal, state, and local tax revenues annually. Recent investments, such as the renovation of our Bellefonte location in Centre County and upgrades to the Richland campus, provide immediate benefits to local construction industries and long-term value to our educational infrastructure.
Economic Impact Documents
To access documents from the Center for Rural Pennsylvania on this Economic Impact Report, including key findings, the value infographic, and methodology, please contact the President’s Office at president@pennhighlands.edu or Marketing and Communications at marketing@pennhighlands.edu.
Take the Next Step
Ready to start your journey? Applying to Penn Highlands Community College is the first step toward a rewarding career and a stronger community.
Click here to begin your application process today.