Each April, Community College Month shines a national spotlight on the essential role community colleges play in strengthening communities, expanding opportunity, and fueling economic growth. At Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC), the month is also an opportunity to celebrate the powerful impact the college has on students, the workforce, and the regional economy.
According to the latest economic impact analysis released in fall 2025 by the Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD), PVCC continues to deliver substantial benefits to Maricopa County and the state of Arizona. The study found that in fiscal year 2023–24, PVCC added $559.5 million in income to the Maricopa County economy, supporting 7,017 jobs across the region.
“Community colleges transform lives and strengthen communities,” said PVCC President Dr. Jana Schwartz. “At PVCC, we are proud to provide accessible, high-quality education that supports our diverse student population while also contributing meaningfully to the economic vitality of Maricopa County.”
Engines of Opportunity and Workforce Development
Community colleges like PVCC serve to open doors for students from all backgrounds. Many students enroll to earn associate degrees or certificates, while others begin their academic journey with plans to transfer to bachelor’s and advanced degree programs. Still others take courses to gain new skills, advance in their careers, or simply expand their horizons.
Across the country, community colleges play a critical role in preparing the workforce. They are among the primary educators of life-saving nursing and healthcare professionals, provide pathways into high-demand careers, and serve as an accessible onramp to bachelor’s and graduate degrees, particularly for students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
Community colleges also guarantee fair admissions, offer flexible learning options for working adults and parents, and often experience increased demand during economic downturns when individuals seek new skills and career pathways. By partnering with industry leaders, they continually develop cutting-edge programs designed to meet workforce needs.
Strong Returns for Students, Taxpayers, and Society
Maricopa County’s latest economic analysis included measuring the return on investment PVCC provides to its key stakeholders – students, taxpayers, and society.
For students, the investment pays off significantly.
- During FY 2023–24, PVCC students collectively invested $12.1 million in tuition, fees, and supplies, while also giving up $20.6 million in potential earnings while attending college.
- In return, those students are projected to gain $152 million in additional earnings over their working lives, a return of $4.70 for every dollar invested, with an average annual return of 17 percent, far exceeding many traditional investment benchmarks.
Taxpayers also see measurable benefits.
- Public funding of $45.6 million for PVCC in FY 2023–24 will generate $58.3 million in benefits, including higher tax revenues and reduced demand for government services.
- That translates to a return of $1.30 for every public dollar invested.
From a broader perspective, Arizona’s total investment of $81.2 million in PVCC is expected to generate $778.6 million in economic growth over the working lives of students, along with $12.3 million in additional public and private savings. In total, society receives $9.70 in benefits for every dollar invested in the college.
Economic Impact Across the Community
And there is more good news as PVCC’s influence extends well beyond the classroom.
The college employs 723 faculty and staff members, whose combined $38.6 million payroll and $17.9 million in operational spending generated a $50 million economic impact in Maricopa County during FY 2023–24.
Students also contribute to the local economy with approximately 12 percent of PVCC students coming from outside Maricopa County, and many relocating or remaining in the area specifically to attend the college. These students spending on housing, food, transportation, and other living expenses generated $52.2 million in income for local businesses.
Perhaps the most powerful impact comes from PVCC alumni. Thousands of former students now work throughout the region, applying the knowledge and skills gained at the college. Their contributions to the workforce produced $457.2 million in added income to the county economy in FY 2023–24 alone.
As Community College Month highlights the national impact of two-year institutions, PVCC’s results illustrate how community colleges strengthen local economies while transforming individual lives.
To learn more about PVCC, visit our website.