U of I System generating almost $25b to the Illinois economy

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - The University of Illinois System has contributed nearly $25 billion to the Illinois economy each year.

The System commissioned a study earlier this year to find the impact of the U of I's three campuses in Champaign-Urbana, Springfield and Chicago on the state.

System-related work and activities continue to drive an average of 225,000 jobs and account for two and a half percent of Illinois' total GDP.

System President Tim Killeen said in a press release that investing in the U of I System "pays strong returns to the state of Illinois."

"Students come out ahead in the form of greater lifetime earning potential, taxpayers find relief in revenues generated by increased economic activity and society benefits from individuals’ greater independence and self-reliance," Killeen said in a statement via the release.

The full study findings are available on the U of I System's website.

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