OPSU Proves Itself as One of Oklahoma’s Most Valuable Public Investments

Goodwell, Okla — For every $1 the State of Oklahoma invests in Oklahoma Panhandle State University (OPSU); $14 flows back into the state’s economy. The eye-catching return on investment sits at the heart of a new economic impact study and underscores why public support for OPSU pays dividends for every Oklahoman. A recent economic impact analysis showed the OPSU generated nearly $99 million in economic output across the State of Oklahoma in fiscal year 2024, evidence of the University’s deep and lasting contribution to the state’s economic well-being.

Through its daily operations, student activity, and the success of its alumni, OPSU supported 885 jobs and over $47 million in wages throughout the year. These figures reflect the real influence of OPSU on local families, communities, and industries across the state.

“Every dollar Oklahoma places with OPSU comes back fourteen-fold,” said Dr. Julie Dinger, President of OPSU. “That’s not an abstract statistic, it’s a paycheck for families, customers for main-street merchants, and momentum for industries that keep our state moving forward.”

The ripple effects of OPSU’s presence can be felt in every corner of the state. From local businesses in the Panhandle to service providers in Oklahoma City, the economic activity tied to the University reaches far beyond the classroom. Students bring dollars into the community through housing, dining, and daily purchases. Alumni who built their futures at OPSU are contributing to industries across the state, creating jobs, and raising household incomes.

President Julie Dinger said the report reaffirms what many in the region already know to be true.

“When students choose OPSU, they’re investing in their own future and helping build a stronger Oklahoma,” Dinger added. “We lead with grit, collaboration, and accountability, and the economics prove those values translate into real growth.”

In addition to driving economic output and job creation, OPSU’s impact also includes fiscal benefits for state and local governments. In fiscal year 2024, the University generated over $3.1 million in tax revenue. That included nearly $1.8 million in income taxes from wages supported by OPSU and $1.3 million in sales taxes from student and employee spending.

What’s more, the University received $6.87 million in state appropriations during the same year. For every one of those dollars, OPSU returned $14.39 in total economic output to the state, a metric that places OPSU among the most efficient public investments in Oklahoma. That kind of return on investment highlights the value of continued public support for the institution.

OPSU continues to lead with purpose and impact. The University is focused on creating opportunities through high-quality education, preparing students for successful careers, and building partnerships that strengthen the workforce across the state.

“OPSU has always been about turning potential into progress,” Dinger said. “We’re one university with one mission: grow the future of this state, one student and one community at a time.”

About OPSU

Oklahoma Panhandle State University is a public university committed to access, academic excellence, and regional service. Located in Goodwell, Oklahoma, OPSU serves students from a wide range of backgrounds, with a strong emphasis on rural and first-generation learners. With career-focused programs in agriculture, business, education, nursing, science, and the liberal arts, OPSU offers a personalized learning experience grounded in small class sizes and close faculty support. The university is guided by the values of grit, collaboration, accountability, and a deep belief in the transformative power of education. These principles shape our commitment to student success and drive our impact on the communities we serve.