University Presidents Discuss Economic Impact

Wednesday, September 5, 2018, the Detroit Economic Club hosted presidents from the state’s University Research Corridor (URC). Michigan State University Interim President The Honorable John Engler, University of Michigan President Dr. Mark Schlissel and Wayne State University President Dr. M. Roy Wilson shared data from the URC's 2018 Economic Impact Report. Changing the public’s view on higher education is a priority. Schlissel explained, “When most people think of higher ed, they think of a place to send your kids to school…but we’re a lot more than that. In addition to educating students and the future workforce, we’re an engine for innovation in the state.” Engler reminded the audience about needing talent at all levels - business to blue tech to medical doctors, along with artisan careers with the rebuilding of Detroit. Overall, the URC contributed a total of $18.7 billion to the state’s economy, which Wilson said equates to about $4,800 per household.

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