A new economic impact study confirms that Lakeland College is a major contributor to the prosperity of its region, its students and Alberta.  

The 2025 Economic and Investment Analysis Report, completed by Lightcast in June, found that Lakeland added $225.7 million to the Lakeland service area in the 2023–24 fiscal year alone. Lakeland’s activities supported nearly 2,400 jobs, equivalent to one in every 28 jobs in the service area.  

“This report confirms what we see every day at Lakeland. The education and experiences we provide not only transform the lives of our students but also create lasting benefits for our region and the province,” says Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, president and CEO of Lakeland College.  

The $225.7 million impact comes from Lakeland’s operations ($54.2 million), student spending ($4.6 million), construction ($4.3 million), and especially the contributions of our alumni, who generate more than $162.6 million each year in added income for the region. 

“Our alumni are making a difference across sectors and communities. With the knowledge and skills they gained at Lakeland, they’ve boosted the competitiveness of companies and organizations, launched businesses, and helped attract industries to the region,” says Wainwright-Stewart. 

The report also demonstrated that Lakeland is a strong investment for students, taxpayers and society in Alberta.  

• For every dollar students invest, they receive $2.50 in higher future earnings.
• Taxpayers also see a $2.50 return for every public dollar invested.
• Society as a whole gains $5.60 in value for every dollar invested, through stronger earnings, business growth, and social savings. 

“These findings show how Lakeland drives economic growth. We support the region through our operations, by providing a skilled workforce, and driving local spending, while students benefit from higher lifetime earnings and expanded opportunities. Taxpayers see returns through stronger tax revenues, and society gains from a more prosperous economy,” says Adam Waterman, chair of Lakeland’s Board of Governors.  “We’re grateful to our students, employees, government and many partners who help make these continued investment returns possible.” 

To learn more, visit our economic impact webpage.