Texas Southern University is contributing $1.6 billion annually to the regional economy while supporting 15,676 jobs across its institutional service area, according to a new economic impact report that underscores the university's growing role in strengthening Houston's workforce, businesses, and long-term economic prosperity. 

The report, based on 2023-2024 data, measures the combined economic contributions generated through university operations, student and visitor spending, research activity, construction projects, and the long-term success of Texas Southern University graduates. During the reporting period, the university enrolled 9,529 students, employed 1,790 faculty and staff members, and awarded 2,012 degrees, further demonstrating its impact on the region's educational and economic landscape. 

The findings show that alumni are the university's greatest economic asset, accounting for more than 80 percent of TSU's total economic impact. Graduates working throughout the region contribute approximately $1.3 billion in added income, reflecting the long-term value of a Texas Southern education and its role in preparing professionals for careers across a wide range of industries. 

President J.W. Crawford III said the report demonstrates that Texas Southern's influence extends well beyond the classroom, with graduates, research, and partnerships strengthening the regional workforce while helping build a more competitive Texas economy. 

According to the report, six primary areas drive the university's annual economic impact:

• Alumni workforce participation: $1.3 billion
• University operations: $174 million
• Student spending: $61.6 million
• Research activity: $20.7 million
• Visitor spending: $18.7 million
• Construction spending: $2 million 

The report also notes that the university's $1.6 billion in added income is equivalent to supporting one out of every 196 jobs in the institutional service area, illustrating the significant role Texas Southern plays in the regional economy. 

Beyond measuring economic activity, the study highlights the financial return on investment generated by a Texas Southern education. Students are projected to receive $6.90 in higher lifetime earnings for every dollar invested in their education. Taxpayers also benefit, receiving an estimated $2.10 in returns for every public dollar invested through increased tax revenues and reduced demand for public services. Society as a whole realizes an estimated $12.80 in benefits for every dollar invested, driven by higher earnings, increased business productivity, and broader social gains associated with a more educated workforce. 

University leaders said the findings align with Ascend 2030, Texas Southern University's strategic plan focused on student success, workforce alignment, research excellence, and expanding the institution's impact throughout Houston and beyond.

The university also announced plans to strengthen its data collection efforts to provide an even more comprehensive picture of its contributions to economic growth throughout its service area.

Located in one of the nation's fastest-growing metropolitan regions, Texas Southern University continues preparing graduates for careers in high-demand fields while expanding its role as an economic engine for Houston. As the university approaches its 100th anniversary in 2027, the report points to continued growth, measurable outcomes, and increasing contributions to the city's economic future.