Snow College has served the communities in Sanpete and Sevier counties for over 100 years not only through the valuable education that students receive but also as a major employer. Students love the small town feel of the junior college, where they receive an excellent education and can make lasting relationships with area businesses and citizens. (Photo courtesy of Snow College)
Snow College boosts economy through education Snow College, with campuses in Ephraim and Richfield, is the largest employer in Sanpete and Sevier Counties. It is also the #1 Ranked Junior College in America as recognized by “College America.” Snow College employs 342 full-time and 813 part-time employees, including student positions. It is hard to overemphasize the economic value that Snow College employees, families, and students have on all neighboring counties. State Representative Derrin Owens refers to Snow College as “The heartbeat of Central and rural Utah.” From humble pioneer beginnings in 1888, Snow College has shown grit and fortitude. Facing closure during the depression, faculty members accepted perishable goods as compensation. Today, Snow College continues the legacy of its founders and remains committed to rural Utah. This entrepreneurial and community effort has produced the leading junior college in the country. Snow College Pres24
Sanpete County Business Guide
ident Bradley Cook acknowledges the collaborative culture stating, “We appreciate our surrounding communities and take seriously our role in economic development. Our students often comment on their positive experiences with local citizens and businesses; we are in this together!” Area economic leaders and business development specialists share President Cook’s regard for the economic role of the college. Sevier County Economic Development Director Malcolm Nash states, “Snow plays a critical role by educating our workforce and developing the human capital needed for economic health and growth. Locally, Snow College is that important bridge from high school to education to the local workforce. Our local economy could not grow if not for the campus and its team of educators, instructors, and programs.” As someone who understands the importance of educating Snow College students, Stacee McIff,
Snow College Business Department Chair, stated the following about the relationships of business leaders in the community and their effect on the outcome of our students. “Our partnership with local communities provides important benefits. Students learn innovation and passion from local business leaders. Businesses benefit from a locally educated workforce. Resources like the Small Business Development Center and the Grit Center for Rural Entrepreneurship not only serve the community but help develop the next generation of successful rural business leaders. Many of our students are eager to stay and raise families in rural Utah. Our goal is to help students feel confident that their Snow College education will help them find financial success in a place they love.” Small Business Development Director Tim Chamberlain noted, “Our Custom Fit program through the SBDC helps to bring in $300,000 worth of training annu-
