Wisconsin’s private, nonprofit colleges and universities are, collectively, one of the state’s top 10 employers and powerful economic drivers, according to new statewide data, showing the sector supports tens of thousands of jobs.
The new analysis demonstrates that Wisconsin’s private colleges collectively created 39,242 jobs statewide, including 18,688 full- and part-time workers employed at the institutions and 20,554 jobs in other sectors of the economy.
Concordia University Wisconsin directly employs more than 880 faculty and staff. In total, the institution generates and supports 1,780 jobs across the region, attracting and retaining talent, and strengthening both community and municipal tax bases.
As part of this statewide impact, CUW plays a major role in sustaining local employment, strengthening regional economies, and developing the workforce Wisconsin needs to compete.
These jobs span education, healthcare, research, technology, construction, retail, and service industries, demonstrating the broad economic reach of private, nonprofit higher education.
“Our alumni are more than just graduates; they are the backbone of Wisconsin’s essential workforce,” said Eric Vogel, director of Alumni and Parent Relations at CUW. “When we see over 16,000 Concordia degree-holders choosing to live and work right here in our state, we are seeing a daily commitment to the common good. Whether they are serving in churches, classrooms, clinics, or corporate offices, our alumni carry the mission of Concordia into the marketplace, turning their education into a multi-billion-dollar economic engine that fuels our local communities and supports the next generation of Christian leaders.”
Over the past five years, capital investments at Concordia generated $4.9 million in economic activity in 2024-2025, supporting 11 additional jobs. Its operations contribute $255,984 in federal, state, and local tax revenue.
CUW also plays a critical role in developing Wisconsin’s talent pipeline. Across nearly 180 academic programs, including high-demand and emerging fields, Concordia prepares students for the careers that fuel Wisconsin’s competitiveness.
With 16,287 Concordia University-Wisconsin alumni living and working in Wisconsin, CUW graduates generate $2.9 billion in annual economic activity, strengthening important sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, technology, and public service.
“Concordia nursing alumni are a vital part of the $2.9 billion in annual economic impact generated by our graduates across Wisconsin,” said Dr. Jessica Leiberg, dean of Concordia’s School of Nursing. “Beyond the numbers are the countless lives they touch and save each day through patient- and Christ-centered care grounded in skill, compassion and integrity. Our nursing alumni impact healthcare and our communities by living out their vocations to serve Christ.”
Sixty percent of Wisconsin’s private college graduates stay in Wisconsin after earning their degrees, contributing to the state’s workforce, tax base, and long-term economic growth. The campus’ impact extends beyond dollars. Students, faculty and staff contribute 49,923 volunteer hours annually.
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Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world.