NEW TOWN – A newly released economic impact study reveals the crucial role of Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College (NHSC) in driving growth and opportunities across North Dakota, according to information released by a consulting group.

The study found NHSC generated $35.7 million in total societal benefits, with $24.3 million in added student income and $9.8 million in increased business output from alumni. The report, commissioned by the American Indian Higher Education Consortium (AIHEC) and Lightcast, quantifies NHSC’s economic and social contributions for fiscal year 2022-23.

“Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College is proud to be a driver of opportunity and growth for tribal and rural North Dakota,” said Dr. Twyla Baker, president of Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College in a news release. “These findings show that our investment in educational excellence pays dividends for our students and for the communities we serve. Every NHSC student is an example of possibility — lifting up families, businesses and our heritage.”

NHSC provides culturally informed higher education and technical training to Native and non-Native students, developing workforce-ready skills, enhancing employability and promoting personal growth.

“Tribal colleges and universities play an important role in their communities, supporting a stronger economy and fulfilling workforce needs, while helping preserve the heritage and cultural identity of the tribal members they serve,” said Sen. John Hoeven, R-ND, in the release. “As we continue working to foster greater self-determination and economic opportunity for tribes, TCUs will remain an essential partner in driving growth and prosperity in Indian country.”

Key details include:

– Total revenues of $14.4 million primarily sourced from federal (61%), local (15%), state (2%), and other funding streams.

– Expenditures of $11.7 million, with 59% devoted to employee wages and benefits, supporting hundreds of local jobs and businesses.

– $1.6 million in annual social savings result from improvements in health, reductions in crime, and decreased reliance on income assistance programs.

– NHSC’s operations, student, and alumni activity bolster industries such as health care, government, construction, retail and agriculture.

– Bachelor’s degree holders earn up to $60,000 per year, significantly above high school and associate degree counterparts.

– NHSC students who graduate enjoy strong increases in annual and long-term income, reflecting direct educational value.

– Government savings of $904,600 in reduced spending, including health ($358,300), crime ($345,200), and income assistance ($201,100) due to NHSC graduates’ improved lifestyles and prospects.

– Public and private sector investments return more than $35.7 million in tangible benefits.