Impact from wage premium
It is important to not lose sight of Messiah University’s core mission, which is to educate men and woman toward maturity of intellect, character, and Christian faith in preparation for lives of service, leadership and reconciliation in church and society. This primary function of the institution enables graduates to have greater participation in the economies they end up in. Therefore, to the extent that an institution like Messiah University is able to retain or attract students to a region, it is increasing the economic vitality and earning power of that region’s economy.
Of Messiah’s nearly 25,000 active alumni, it is estimated that about 12,800 are currently employed and living within Pennsylvania. These alumni are estimated to earn an additional $77 million in wages each year as a result of their degrees from Messiah. The economic impact from this wage premium is $89 million a year, supporting 530 jobs and $27 million in earnings. (Source: EConsult Soultions Economic Impact Report)
Annual Wage Premium Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
| Direct Wage | Premium $77 million |
| Total Impact | $89 million |
| Employment Supported | 530 jobs |
| Earnings | $27 million |