As part of Community College Month, Ivy Tech Community College South Bend-Elkhart is highlighting new data that demonstrates one of its most powerful outcomes: a strong return on investment for students, taxpayers, and the region.

According to a newly released Economic Impact Study, Ivy Tech South Bend-Elkhart generated $217.3 million in total economic impact across Elkhart, Marshall, and St. Joseph counties in fiscal year 2024–25, supporting 2,775 regional jobs.

Just as importantly, the study shows that an Ivy Tech education delivers measurable financial value:

  • For every $1 students invest, they receive $4.70 in future earnings
  • Graduates earn an average of $11,300 more annually than those with only a high school diploma
  • Over a lifetime, that equates to approximately $452,000 in additional earnings per graduate

Taxpayers and the broader community also see strong returns:

  • For every $1 of public investment, taxpayers receive $1.70 in return
  • Across Indiana, every $1 invested generates $8.50 in total social and economic benefits

Delivering Value for Students and Employers

“Ivy Tech is one of the best investments a student—and our community—can make,” said Patrick Englert, Chancellor of Ivy Tech South Bend-Elkhart. “Our students gain skills that lead directly to higher wages and career opportunities, while employers gain access to a highly trained workforce. That return shows up in stronger families, stronger businesses, and a stronger regional economy.”

Recent graduate outcomes reinforce this value:

  • 2,113 graduates earned credentials in 2025
  • 88.9% of graduates are employed in a position related to their major
  • Nearly 50% of graduates earn $50,000 or more annually
  • Graduates are working across 95 regional employers

A Regional Economic Engine

The Economic Impact Study highlights Ivy Tech’s role as a major contributor to the local economy:

  • $217.3 million total economic impact
  • 2,775 jobs supported
  • Significant contributions from alumni, operations, and student spending

This impact reflects Ivy Tech’s ability to retain talent, supply skilled workers, and support key industries including healthcare, manufacturing, and technology.

Connecting Education to Opportunity

Through initiatives like Ivy+ Career Link, students gain career coaching, applied learning experiences, and direct connections to employers—ensuring they graduate prepared to succeed in high-demand fields.

Changing Lives—and Strengthening the Economy

During Community College Month, Ivy Tech South Bend-Elkhart is not only celebrating access and affordability—but also the measurable return its students and communities receive.

From higher wages to job creation to long-term economic growth, Ivy Tech continues to prove that investing in education delivers real results.

Ivy Tech is one of the best investments a student—and our community—can make. Our students gain skills that lead directly to higher wages and career opportunities, while employers gain access to a highly trained workforce. That return shows up in stronger families, stronger businesses, and a stronger regional economy.

– Dr. Patrick Englert, Chancellor, Ivy Tech South Bend-Elkhart

About Ivy Tech Community College

Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana's largest public postsecondary institution and the nation's largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state's engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The College provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor's degree.