University of Pittsburgh Releases 2006 Economic, Community Impact Reports

PITTSBURGH-Among the highlights of the University of Pittsburgh's recently released 2006 Economic Impact Report are the facts that Pitt annually generates $1.5 billion in total University-related spending and contributes $117.4 million to the community coffers through sales, wages, and real estate taxes. These and other little-known facts highlight the University's annual impact on Western Pennsylvania's economy. They include:

o $1.1 billion in personal income from 32,000 Pitt-sponsored jobs;

o $115.7 million average annual investment in construction from FY 2003

through FY 2005-generating 1,100 jobs in construction and related industries;

o $78 million in direct and induced expenditures associated with people visiting

Pitt;

o $5.1 billion in earnings by more than 70,800 Pitt alumni residing in Allegheny

County; and

o $603 million in sponsored research-creating 17,100 jobs.

But the University's contributions go beyond the financial, and those are highlighted in the University's recently released 2006 Community Impact Report. Noteworthy in this report are the School of Education's work with local school districts' administrators, teachers and regional supporters to develop and sustain student achievement; the Pitt Arts program, which introduces more than 30,000 students annually to the performing and visual arts; and the University's numerous community outreach programs, including the Community Outreach Partnership Center, Pitt Volunteer Pool, and, most recently, America on the Move in Pittsburgh, a Pitt coordinated, communitywide initiative to improve the health of individuals in our region.

"These reports illustrate the economic and societal value provided by the University," said Renny Clark, vice chancellor for community initiatives and chief of staff in the Office of the Chancellor. "As a key nonprofit citizen, the University is always mindful of the important role it plays in advancing quality of life and economic opportunities through its mission of education, research, and public service."

Pitt's Office of Public Affairs biennially publishes the Economic Impact Report and Community Impact Report in collaboration with the Office of the Chancellor. To request copies, contact Sherry Shrum in executive communications at 412-624-4392 or shrum@pitt.edu.

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10/20/06/tmw