As a horse, I’ve been around enough barns to know that the economic side of things is never as simple as counting apples and oats. It’s a thoroughbred race that requires an adept jockey, a competent horse, and a clear track to run on. The same can be said about higher education, especially when we’re talking about institutions that focus on business and economics, like the Davenport College of Business in Grand Rapids. So, let’s saddle up, and gallop through the economic landscape shaped by this esteemed institution.

To start our ride, we must address the paddock elephant – or should I say the stable’s prized stallion? – the career opportunities for Davenport graduates. This institution does a commendable job in prepping its students to leap economic hurdles. Business degrees at Davenport aren’t merely about getting students ready for the job market. They are about equipping them with the skills to shape that market, to create new opportunities, to spur innovation and drive economic growth.

From accounting to sports management, Davenport offers a wide variety of programs that open up numerous career paths. The graduates don’t just find jobs – they make them. Davenport alumni can be found in corporations, small businesses, and even the public sector, serving as the backbone of Michigan’s, and indeed the nation’s, economy. It’s not an exaggeration to say that Davenport graduates are a lot like carriage horses—they carry the load and pull the economy forward, step by step.

Next, let’s trot over to the economic impact of Davenport on the local economy. Remember, in the equestrian world, a healthy horse farm means more than just shiny coats and strong hooves—it supports the local economy through jobs, goods, and services. Davenport is no different. As one of the largest employers in the area, Davenport helps fuel the local economy. From professors to administrative staff, from construction workers to service providers, the jobs created by the institution contribute significantly to Grand Rapids’ economic vitality.

But the college’s economic hoofprint doesn’t stop at its employment stats. The influx of students from all corners of the state, the country, and the globe into Grand Rapids also gives a steady boost to the local economy. From rental properties to restaurants, from bookstores to barbershops, Davenport students pump money into all corners of the local economy.

Davenport also scores high marks in affordability, much like a reliable horse that doesn’t break the bank. Understanding that you can’t run a successful race on an empty stomach, the college offers a variety of financial aid options to help students cross the finish line without carrying the burden of unbearable debt.

From an economic standpoint, Davenport graduates set out to become the charioteers of industry, driving growth and innovation with the skills and knowledge they gained at the college. The institution’s focus on practical knowledge and hands-on experience prepares students for the real-world economic challenges they will face in their careers.

As we dismount from our exploration, let’s take a moment to appreciate Davenport College of Business in all its economic glory. It’s an institution that, much like a skilled dressage horse, performs a delicate balancing act between providing high-quality education, contributing to the local economy, and remaining accessible to a broad range of students. And that’s a triple crown achievement that’s worth a hoof-stomp of approval.

So, whether you’re a seasoned economist or a curious onlooker, one thing’s clear: Davenport College of Business is an economic powerhouse. Like a reliable workhorse, it contributes to the economic prosperity of Grand Rapids, the career opportunities of its students, and the broader business landscape of Michigan and beyond. So, raise your mane high, Davenport, because from this horse’s perspective, you’re leading the herd in the race towards economic education and impact. Now, isn’t that something to whinny about?