CLINTON, Iowa, Aug. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- According to an independent study released today by the Clinton Regional Development Corp. and the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce, Ashford University had an estimated economic impact of $40.9 million in business output to the state of Iowa in 2009. The study was prepared by The London Group, a national economic consulting firm.

The business output estimates set forth in the study include base impacts which are directly attributed to the university's operations (such as employee wages, capital expenses and charitable contributions) as well as a broader measure of the economic contributions, which include expenditures that permeate throughout the state.

The study says that the 2009 total impact in business output from Ashford University to the state of Iowa was 728 jobs, $12.6 million in employee earnings and $18.6 million in total value added to the state's Gross Domestic Product.

Findings from the study were announced at the Ashford University Community Celebration, a day-long event recognizing Ashford's biggest on-campus enrollment in its 92-year history, Academic Scholarships for high academic achievers and the new Athletic Complex, including the showcase soccer field.

"In 2009, a total of $56,824 was donated to various area organizations," the study says. The university also encourages its staff and students to volunteer in efforts to support worthwhile causes.

"Having Ashford University in our region makes us much more marketable. They are a great partner in making this a better place to live and work," said Clinton Regional Development Corporation President and CEO Steven Ames. "Their positive impact is broad reaching and confirmed by this study."

"Ashford University is among Clinton's largest employers," Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce President Julie Allesee said. "Beyond its phenomenal economic impact, Ashford University has put higher education within reach for hundreds of deserving, academically qualified students. Plus, there are hundreds of new students who are attending the university on full-tuition scholarships. The 2010-2011 back-to-school year really is a milestone in Clinton's history."

About Ashford University

Founded in 1918, Ashford University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (www.ncahlc.org). The University offers graduate and undergraduate degree programs online and at its Clinton, Iowa, campus. The University is known for its high quality yet highly affordable online and on-campus programs. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu or call Shari Rodriguez, associate vice president of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.

About Clinton Regional Development Corporation

The Clinton Regional Development Corporation offers professional, client-driven site selection services. It is a public-private partnership organized in 1953. Goals are to enhance the regional business climate, attract new investment, expand existing industry and encourage quality new jobs. The corporation focuses on providing confidential assistance to businesses exploring opportunities within the Clinton region.

About Clinton Chamber of Commerce

The Clinton Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary, non-profit, membership, business organization. Owned and operated by area business members and organizations, and directed by a board of volunteers, the Chamber is helping businesses do more business. To achieve this overreaching goal, the chamber promotes the Clinton area as a center of commerce, and actively works to secure a well-balanced business community and a strong economy.

SOURCE Ashford University