Metro East Sun

State Representative Amy Elik, along with local leaders, gathered at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) to discuss the university's economic contributions. The Economic Impact Report from SIUE presented extensive data demonstrating the university's influence.

Joining Rep. Elik were Chancellor James Minor, SIU System President Daniel Mahony, State Senator Erica Harriss, State Representative Katie Stuart, Edwardsville Mayor Art Risavy, SIU Board Chairman J. Phil Gilbert, and Vice Chair Ed Hightower.

“SIUE’s economic impact goes further than this campus and the City of Edwardsville,” said Elik. “The University continues to go above and beyond providing communities and students throughout the region the opportunities to succeed and thrive.”

Elik also noted the value of the SIU School of Dental Medicine in Alton: “The SIU School of Dental Medicine, which has its home in Alton, consistently graduates the best of the best and is a valued asset to the Alton community.”

Key points from SIUE’s Economic Report included operational expenses totaling $311 million and a total output from operations reaching $636 million. Student off-campus spending amounted to nearly $130 million, while visitor spending was over $4 million. Taxpayers see a return on investment of $3.41 for each state dollar spent on SIUE.

Other highlights include recognition for export service by the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and International Trade Center (ITC) at SIUE with an "E" award. The Center for Predictive Analytics (C-PAN) serves both internal and external partners through advanced data analysis techniques.

SIUE's commitment to STEM research is evident through its collaborative Center for STEM Research, Education and Outreach. Washington Monthly recognized SIUE as “2023 Best Bang for the Buck” among Midwest institutions.

All new construction on campus meets Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) standards set by the U.S. Green Building Council. The Center for Sustainable Communities and Entrepreneurship supports economic development initiatives.

Dental Medicine students manage around 35,000 patient visits annually across clinics in Alton and East St. Louis while offering oral health services to over 13,000 people through outreach events.

The SIUE East St. Louis Center secured more than $14 million in grants supporting programs for children and families within Metro East Community.

The Southern Illinois University System employs over 7,000 staff serving approximately 23,500 students across campuses in Carbondale, Edwardsville, Springfield as well as operating medical facilities that provide care to numerous patients.