East Texas A&M University is keeping talent in Texas while generating millions of dollars for the Northeast Texas economy, according to a new economic impact study by MGT, a national technology and advisory solutions firm.
Educating Graduates Who Stay and Work in Texas
The study revealed that most East Texas A&M graduates remain in Texas. More than 94% of undergraduate alumni and 80% of graduate alumni are currently employed in the state.
These statistics underscore the university’s important role in developing a skilled workforce to meet regional labor needs across Northeast Texas. In fiscal year 2024, East Texas A&M awarded 3,401 degrees, accounting for nearly one in every 66 bachelor’s-or-higher degrees awarded by Texas public institutions.
Driving Jobs and Economic Activity Across the Region
The study also highlighted East Texas A&M’s major economic role in the city of Commerce and the surrounding eight-county region. In Northeast Texas, the university:
- Supports 3,284 jobs
- Generates $418 million in regional economic output
- Contributes $199.5 million to the regional gross domestic product
- Produces $124.2 million in labor income by regional workers
- Creates $42.2 million in supported tax revenue benefitting federal, state, and local jurisdictions, including $4.5 million for local schools, police and fire departments, and other public services
Stakeholders interviewed for the study consistently described East Texas A&M as the economic backbone of Commerce, noting that local restaurants, retailers, service providers, and hospitality businesses rely heavily on student, employee, and visitor activity.
Investing in the Future of Northeast Texas
The findings come as ETAMU continues a period of significant growth, generating economic benefits that contribute to the future prosperity of Northeast Texas. The university recently completed the first phase of the Agricultural Multipurpose Education and Training Center and is currently building both the Ted and Donna Lyon Center for Gamebird Research and the René Griffin Event Center, set to open in fall 2026 and spring 2027, respectively.
What the Findings Mean for East Texas A&M
Dr. Brent Donham, vice president for Research and Economic Development at ETAMU, said the report underscores the university’s impact on the region through education, job creation and economic growth:
“This economic impact study demonstrates that East Texas A&M is not only fulfilling our mission to help students transform their lives, but we are also fostering success within Commerce, our regional service area, and beyond.”
