Irvine Valley College serves as a major economic engine for Orange County by providing a high-quality education to students, training skilled workers and employing residents from across the region, according to a recent analysis.
An independent economic impact study found that Irvine Valley generates $611.8 million for the local economy while supporting 6,530 jobs.
The study’s findings are a testament to the college’s commitment to providing students with a top education and career training opportunities while crafting strategic partnerships with businesses, government agencies and educational networks, Irvine Valley President Dr. John Hernandez, Ph.D., said in a statement.
“Irvine Valley College will continue its evolution as a provider of world-class education by continuing to enhance academic programs to align with student and industry trends and demands, embracing cutting-edge technology, cultivating diversity, equity and inclusion, strengthening community partnerships, supporting student success and implementing sustainability initiatives,” Hernandez said.
Many of the college’s graduates go on to successful careers. The study found that the average Irvine Valley alum with an associate degree will earn $10,300 more annually than a person with a high school diploma or equivalent working in California.
Irvine Valley also supports the county’s economy through direct spending, along with student expenditures. The college employs 1,027 faculty and staff and enrolls about 13,000 students.
The study was based on employee, student and financial data and commissioned by the Orange County Regional Consortium, a partnership between local community colleges that aims to boost workforce training and development.
Irvine Valley was named No. 3 in an annual ranking of California’s two-year colleges by EDsmart, a leading publisher of college resources and rankings.
