New Hampshire's colleges and universities say their latest report shows that they are major contributors to the state's vibrant economy.
The New Hampshire College and University Council estimates that its 22 public and private nonprofit institutions directly supported 17,800 jobs in fiscal year 2012-13 and generated an estimated economic impact of $5.8 billion.
Council President Tom Horgan says he appreciates the effort state lawmakers are making to restore funding for higher education but he also hopes they will find money in the next budget for scholarships to encourage New Hampshire students to stay in their home state for college.
New Hampshire is the only state that doesn't pay for such scholarships from its general fund, and it ranks last in state funding for higher education in general.
