Story: Betsy Compton

A new economic impact study shows the University of West Alabama generates $448.4 million in annual economic activity across the state, supporting businesses, communities, and workforce development throughout Alabama.

The study highlights the significant role UWA plays in strengthening the state’s economy through university operations, student and visitor spending, and the long-term contributions of alumni working across Alabama.

“The University of West Alabama is transforming lives through education while also strengthening the economic future of the State of Alabama,” said University President Dr. Todd G. Fritch. “Our graduates are making meaningful contributions in classrooms, hospitals, businesses, and communities across Alabama. We are proud to highlight the lasting impact of a UWA education—not only for our students, but for the entire state. The study delves into the impacts of alumni, student, and university spending throughout the state, the number of jobs supported, visitor spending, and much more to recognize the value that this University brings to not only the region but the entire state.”

Alumni Drive the Largest Share of Economic Impact

The study found that the largest share of UWA’s economic impact comes from its graduates working across Alabama. Alumni contribute $388.4 million in income to the state’s economy each year through higher earnings and increased productivity in the workforce.

In total, UWA alumni working across Alabama support 6,615 jobs in industries ranging from education and healthcare to business and public service.

Economic Activity Across the State

In addition to alumni contributions, several other factors contribute to the University’s overall economic impact.

University operations—including payroll and spending on goods and services—generated $44.1 million in income for the Alabama economy during the study year.

Student spending also plays a role in supporting local businesses and communities. Spending by students attending UWA generated $10.2 million in economic activity statewide, while visitors traveling to campus for events and activities contributed $1.3 million in additional income to the state economy.

Construction activity at the University also contributed to the state’s economy, generating $3 million in added income during the fiscal year.

A Strong Investment in Education

Beyond its economic impact, the study highlights the long-term value of a UWA education.

Graduates benefit from increased earning potential throughout their careers. The study found that the average UWA master’s graduate earns approximately $12,500 more per year than someone with only a bachelor’s degree working in Alabama—an advantage that can total about $400,000 in additional earnings over a career.

Students also see strong returns on their educational investment. On average, students receive $2.70 in lifetime earnings for every dollar invested in their education, representing a higher than national average annual return of 14.6 percent.

Broader Benefits to Alabama

The study also found that the University generates significant long-term benefits for Alabama’s economy and society. In total, the long-term economic and social benefits associated with UWA amount to $1.1 billion in value for Alabama society, including increased workforce productivity and savings related to health, justice system, and income assistance costs.

Learn more about UWA’s economic impact study findings and explore the full Economic Impact Study.

About the Study The economic impact analysis reflects fiscal year 2023–24 data provided by the University of West Alabama for a study conducted using Lightcast’s economic modeling tools and incorporates data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Census Bureau, and other national sources. The analysis measures both the economic impact created by UWA and the return on investment for students, taxpayers, and society.

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The University of West Alabama is expanding its College of Nursing to become the��College of Nursing and Health Professions, a strategic initiative designed to strengthen healthcare education, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and address the growing demand for healthcare professionals across Alabama and the Black Belt region.

Effective August 1, the expanded college will bring together nursing and a broader range of health-related academic programs under a unified academic structure that enhances collaboration among faculty, students, and healthcare disciplines.

“The expansion of this college to become the College of Nursing and Health Professions reflects our commitment to addressing shortages in the healthcare workforce and building upon the strong foundation of healthcare education at UWA,” said UWA President Dr. Todd G. Fritch. “We have listened carefully to the healthcare industry throughout the Black Belt region, and we are responding by creating new opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and student success that will prepare graduates to meet the evolving needs of our communities.”

Provost Dr. Amy H. Jones said the expanded college represents an investment in both academic excellence and the future of healthcare education.

“This expanded structure is designed to strengthen collaboration among related disciplines, support continued academic growth, and prepare students to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare workforce,” Jones said. “The transition will facilitate stronger collaboration between students and faculty across our healthcare-related academic programs while expanding opportunities through shared simulation environments, clinical equipment, and instructional facilities.”

Dr. Mary Hanks will continue serving as dean of the College of Nursing and Health Professions, while Dr. Dara Murray, associate professor of nursing, will serve as associate dean.

The College will be organized into two primary academic departments: the Department of Nursing, chaired by Dr. Kelly McClure, associate professor of nursing, and the newly established Department of Health Professions. A chair for the Department of Health Professions will be announced at a later date.

The new Department of Health Professions will include several rapidly growing tracks within UWA’s Health Sciences Comprehensive program previously housed in the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, including General Health Sciences, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Physician Assistant/Associate, Respiratory Therapy, and Medical Laboratory Science. The department will also include the Certified Nursing Assistant program, previously administered through the Division of Lifelong Learning and Economic and Workforce Development, as well as healthcare administration programs currently under development.

The expanded College reflects UWA’s continued commitment to preparing highly skilled healthcare professionals while strengthening partnerships with healthcare providers and communities throughout the region.

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As part of the University of West Alabama’s continued commitment to strengthening the student experience and advancing student success, UWA President Dr. Todd G. Fritch has announced the appointment of Byron Thetford as Vice President for Student Affairs.

Established in 2025 as a standalone division, Student Affairs was created to provide centralized leadership for programs and services that support student engagement, well-being, leadership development, and campus life. The appointment removes the interim designation from Thetford’s title following a year of leadership during the division’s transition and continued growth.

Thetford will continue serving as Dean of Students and as a member of the President’s Cabinet while leading the Division of Student Affairs. He will also oversee the University’s operational partnership with Aramark Dining Services and continue serving as UWA’s liaison with the YMCA, supporting partnerships and initiatives that enhance the university experience.

“Student Affairs plays a vital role in creating an environment where students can thrive both inside and outside the classroom,” Fritch said. “Byron has provided steady leadership during the establishment of the division, and his commitment to our students and the University has positioned Student Affairs for continued growth and success.”

Thetford has served the University in student affairs leadership for many years, including as Dean of Students prior to his appointment as Interim Vice President of Student Affairs in July 2025.

Throughout his career at UWA, Thetford has worked to strengthen student support services, foster student engagement, and enhance opportunities that contribute to student success and campus life.

“I am honored to continue serving the University of West Alabama in this role,” Thetford said. “Our students are at the heart of everything we do, and I look forward to continuing to work alongside our faculty, staff, and campus partners to create an exceptional student experience.”

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