News Story
September 04, 2025
La Roche University Powers Pennsylvania’s Economy with $121.5 Million Impact and Over 1,000 Jobs
PITTSBURGH, Sept. 4, 2025 – A new study reveals La Roche University is not only educating future leaders but also fueling Pennsylvania’s economy—generating $121.5 million in annual economic activity and supporting more than 1,000 jobs across the Commonwealth.
Commissioned by the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania (AICUP), the study by Parker Strategy Group highlights La Roche’s broad economic influence—from campus operations to student and visitor spending.
“La Roche University’s impact extends well beyond education, serving as a key driver of economic strength across the region and the Commonwealth,” said President Christina A. Clark, Ph.D. “We support jobs, generate vital tax revenue, and most importantly, advance social mobility by creating life-changing opportunities for our students and communities.”
Study Highlights:
- $121.5 million total economic impact statewide
- 1,075 jobs supported, full-time and part-time
- $9.6 million in annual state and local tax revenues
Using the IMPLAN model, the analysis accounted for La Roche’s spending on operations, wages, benefits, and capital projects, plus indirect effects on local businesses in sectors like hospitality, retail, health care, and construction.
According to
The Economic Impact of AICUP Schools, independent colleges and universities in Pennsylvania—including their affiliated teaching hospitals—generate about $29 billion in economic activity each year. These institutions also contribute roughly $1.5 billion in tax revenue, representing about 7% of the state’s total economy.
Nichole Parker, managing principal of Parker Strategy Group, emphasized the broader value of independent higher education institutions. She said, “There’s no question that Pennsylvania’s independent, nonprofit colleges and universities serve as vital economic drivers for their communities and help fuel the economic vitality of the Commonwealth.”
About La Roche University: An independent liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La Roche University offers 71 undergraduate programs of study, eight master’s degrees and two doctoral degrees, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for women and men enjoying multiple student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, La Roche University embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, La Roche University educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.###