The Valparaiso University Department of Athletics asked Collegiate Consulting to help them figure out how much the university's sports programs contribute to the local economy. They found that their athletics program generates more than $80 million each year in economic impact.
The study reviewed four years that showed $320.1 million in total economic benefits.
“We have always known that serving as a front porch for our institution is one of our department’s most important roles,” said Laurel Hosmer, director of athletics and campus recreation, in a press release. “The analysis provided by Collegiate Consulting in this study helps us take a data-driven approach to telling the story of our impact.”
The department's Division I games, camps and non-athletic events brought in almost $15 million over the past four years.
“Valparaiso University Athletics is an important driver of the institution’s visibility, student experience and regional impact,” Collegiate Consulting Founder and Managing Director Russell Wright said. “This study demonstrates the significant value the Beacons bring to the university and Northwest Indiana, highlighting how athletics enhances the Valpo experience, strengthens community engagement, and generates meaningful economic activity throughout the Region.”
The study analyzed various data, including media exposure. Fans watched games more than 300,000 times on ESPN+ just his past year, and also watched alternatively on Gray Media, CBS Sports Network, FS1, Peacock, The CW, ESPNU and SEC Network.
“This study defines facts and figures that show the power of athletics,” Hosmer said. “As we continue to build and grow Valpo Athletics together, we assume an important responsibility of using Division I athletics as a platform to shine a light on our campus and community.”
For the fourth year, the Valparaiso University Department of Athletics hosted a coaches tour and movie night in May at Central Park Plaza downtown. Head coaches toured four stops in the community to generate buzz for the 2026-2027 season.
Collegiate Consulting was founded in 2005 and has helped more than 750 organizations determine their value in their communities.
Valparaiso University was founded by Methodists in 1859 as a co-education facility, and closed in 1871. It reopened in 1873 as a “poor man's Harvard.” It's current name was chartered in 1906. The Lutheran University Association bought it in 1925. In fall 2024, the university enrolled 2,142 undergraduate and 456 graduate students.
