MARION, Ind. (Oct. 3, 2025) – Indiana leaders gathered on the campus of Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) today for the Capitol to Campus event, where Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith and Secretary of Education Katie Jenner joined state lawmakers as IWU announced the findings of its 2025 Economic and Social Impact Report.
The program included a fireside chat with Beckwith, moderated by Penny Callaway, IWU’s executive director of government and strategic relations, as well as roundtable conversations with legislators.
The independent analysis, conducted by Econsult Solutions Inc., confirms IWU’s standing as the largest private university in Indiana and a significant contributor to the state’s economy. The study found IWU generates $649 million in annual economic activity, supports 3,510 jobs and contributes $18.6 million in state tax revenue each year.
“This report confirms what we have long known,” said Jon Kulaga, president of IWU. “Indiana Wesleyan is a Christ-centered community that transforms lives while also serving as an economic engine that strengthens communities, creates jobs and provides lasting hope.”
In Grant County, home to the Marion campus, IWU contributes $230.5 million annually and sustains 1,420 jobs. In Marion County, anchored by IWU’s campus in North Indianapolis, the university generates $117.1 million annually and supports 520 jobs.
“Our mission and our economic contributions are inseparable,” Kulaga said. “Every student we prepare for leadership also strengthens Indiana’s future workforce and economy.”
The findings also emphasize the long-term value of an IWU education. With more than 115,000 alumni nationwide, including 56,000 in Indiana, IWU graduates earn $355 million more in wages each year than they would without their degrees. The university invests $35 million annually in unfunded scholarships, partners with more than 80 community organizations and welcomes 71,000 visitors to campus events.
“As the largest private university in Indiana, IWU is uniquely positioned to partner with our state’s leaders,” Callaway said. “Capitol to Campus reflects our commitment to working together for the good of students, families and communities across the state.”
