Virginia's Smart Investment: Why Education Matters

Virginia stands out as a leader in education, a fact that has caught the attention of many. This year, CNBC ranked Virginia's education system as the best in the nation. This news was celebrated by business and education leaders who gathered in Richmond for the annual Education and Workforce Conference. The event, organized by the Virginia Business Higher Education Council (VBHEC) and the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the importance of education in driving the state's economy. Virginia's colleges, universities, and community colleges are not just places for learning; they are powerhouses that fuel the state's economy. These institutions prepare students to enter the workforce, ready to take on leadership roles and drive innovation. They also play a crucial role in attracting businesses to the state, giving Virginia a competitive edge. The importance of education was not lost on the candidates for governor, Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears and former Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger. Both attended the conference and shared their plans for higher education. They acknowledged the vital role that higher education institutions play in creating job opportunities and expressed their commitment to making education affordable for all Virginians. The state's investment in higher education is paying off. Higher education institutions are major employers and catalysts for economic growth, producing more than 188, 000 jobs statewide. Every tax dollar spent on education generates more than $25 in economic output and returns nearly $2 to the state treasury. This investment not only pays for itself but also benefits the students who gain access to well-paying jobs. The Virginia Business Higher Education Council (VBHEC) has identified 27 investment priorities in four major categories: Talent Pathways and Internships, Affordability and Return on Investment, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Solving Problems and Strengthening Communities. These priorities aim to preserve Virginia's competitive advantage, ensure that talented young Virginians stay in the state for employment after graduation, and give all Virginians affordable access to education.