Towson, Md. (February 26, 2008) Baltimore County Executive Jim Smith and Mayor Shelia Dixon joined the Baltimore Collegetown Network as the consortium of public and private schools announced results of region's first report on the economic contribution of colleges and universities. The study revealed that 15 Baltimore area colleges, universities and academic medical centers contribute $17.2 billion in economic activity and 162,000 jobs to the regional and state economy. As a business sector, this economic contribution ranks sixth in the Baltimore region, between the port and tourism. "We all recognize that Baltimore's colleges and universities are critical in training our future workforce. This study reinforces their vital role as contributors to the bottom line of our economy," said Baltimore County Executive Jim Smith. The report also highlights how higher education, business and government have successfully collaborated in other areas of the country and how Baltimore might use these models to capitalize on the region's strength. "When it comes to intellectual, cultural, and economic impact, our colleges and universities are unrivaled. Thanks to the Baltimore Collegetown Network for conducting this important study," said Mayor Shelia Dixon. "We are the first region to compile a report to understand the economic, workforce development, social and cultural contributions of multiple universities in one area, said Kristen Campbell, Executive Director of Baltimore's Collegetown Network. The study was funded by the Baltimore County Department of Economic Development, The Baltimore Development Corporation, and the Goldseker Foundation and was conducted on behalf of the Baltimore College Network by the Jacob France Institute of the University of Baltimore and RESI of Towson University. Read more business headlines Read more about Baltimore County Business Communities Back to top Read more business headlines Baltimore County
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