MOUNT PLEASANT, MI (Nov. 24, 2025) – A new study by Collegiate Consulting shows that Central Michigan University’s athletics program generates an average annual economic impact of $171 million, with a total of $513 million between FY2022 and FY2025.
The report highlights more than $285 million in media exposure value from broadcasts, streaming, and social media, as well as $50 million from game-day events, camps, and special events hosted at athletic facilities. Student-athletes, staff, and external revenue streams contributed another $178 million in direct and indirect impact, reinforcing CMU Athletics’ role as both an institutional and community asset.
“Central Michigan Athletics is not only a cornerstone of the University’s identity but also a powerful contributor to the economic and cultural vitality of Mount Pleasant and the central Michigan region,” said Russell Wright, Founder & Managing Director of Collegiate Consulting. “This study quantifies the measurable value CMU Athletics provides and highlights why continued investment in athletics is essential to both the institution’s success and the community’s future prosperity.”
Founded in 2005, Collegiate Consulting has partnered with more than 750 universities, colleges, conferences, and associations nationwide. The firm specializes in strategic planning, feasibility studies, enrollment strategies, and economic valuations for higher education institutions. In the past 12 months, Collegiate Consulting has completed athletic economic impact studies for Toledo, Washington State, San Jose State, New Mexico and Rice.