http://www.usm.edu/pr/releases/2006/apr/cost.htm

Southern Miss' College of Science and Technology, an Economic Force Statewide

Date 4-3-06

Contact Chinika Hood 601.266.5568

Hattiesburg—The University of Southern Mississippi’s College of Science and Technology has created a profit margin for the state of Mississippi that would make even the most aggressive stock broker envious.

The College of Science and Technology has managed to leverage $7 million of state funding into an $86 million impact for Mississippians according to a 2005 study conducted by the college and the Center for Community and Economic Development. The report looked at state-funded operations and outreach programs of the college to determine the economic return on the Mississippi Legislature’s appropriation as well as the economic impact of the existing state-funded facilities.

Research showed that of the $86 million, $65 million was paid in wages and salaries to approximately 1,500 people, catapulting the college above the City of Hattiesburg on the Pine Belt’s list of top ten employers. Overall, the income from these jobs generated about $3.6 million in state general fund revenue and $350,000 in local sales taxes.

“A substantial component of this growth activity takes the form of competitive grants and contracts earned by our highly qualified and dedicated faculty and staff, said Rex Gandy, dean of Southern Miss’ College of Science and Technology. “As dean, I am very proud that the college is effectively using its state resources. This is indicative of the hard work of our faculty and staff.”

Since its debut in 1970, the College of Science and Technology has created world-class programs in polymer science, marine science and biology, and has been a force in the areas of research and economic development. It is comprised of nearly 3,000 majors.