Fort Valley State University: A Pillar of Excellence and Economic Power in Peach County

September 24, 2025
Development Authority of Peach County

Image Credit: Fort Valley State University

The Development Authority of Peach County is pleased to share the outstanding news regarding Fort Valley State University (FVSU). This esteemed institution has once again distinguished itself, being named the #1 Public Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Georgia for the eighth straight year and earning the #1 ranking in Social Mobility among regional universities in the state, according to U.S. News & World Report.

This recognition is a testament to FVSU's unwavering commitment to academic excellence and its transformative impact on students' lives, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. A high social mobility ranking highlights the university’s success in graduating Pell Grant recipients, effectively turning education into a powerful engine for economic and social advancement.

The Vital Role of the University in Our Community

A strong university like FVSU is critical to the vitality and future of our community. It serves as a cultural hub, a source of innovation, and a point of pride. The university enriches the lives of our residents by offering cultural events, engaging in community outreach, and creating an environment of lifelong learning. Most importantly, it is a foundation for opportunity, providing accessible, quality education right here in Peach County.

Significant Economic Impact

Beyond the educational mission, FVSU is a massive economic driver for Middle Georgia, including Peach County. The university’s operations create a substantial ripple effect throughout the region.

• Financial Output: FVSU contributes a significant amount in output impact annually, supporting hundreds of jobs both on and off-campus through institution-related spending.

• Job Creation: The university directly employs a substantial number of faculty and staff, but its spending further supports hundreds of off-campus jobs in local businesses, restaurants, and services. This stability is invaluable to our local economy.

• Lifetime Earnings: The most profound economic impact is seen in its graduates. Those who remain in Georgia can expect combined lifetime earnings that are substantially higher due to the advanced opportunities provided by their FVSU degrees, injecting long-term financial prosperity into the region.

Workforce Development and Readiness

FVSU is directly linked to workforce development and readiness in Peach County and the broader region. The quality of our local workforce is the number one asset we offer to existing and prospective businesses, and FVSU is at the forefront of building that talent pipeline.

• Skilled Graduates: The university produces highly skilled graduates across critical fields like agriculture (as an 1890 Land-Grant institution), technology, education, and health sciences, ensuring a steady supply of well-prepared professionals for local and regional employers.

• Career Advancement: Through offices dedicated to civic engagement and career development, FVSU actively connects students with employers, offering resources like career planning, resume workshops, and career fairs. This focused approach ensures graduates are not just educated but are workforce-ready—possessing the essential professional skills and connections needed to succeed immediately upon graduation. This direct link between academia and industry is vital for sustained economic growth.

A Legacy of Opportunity

Fort Valley State University’s deep roots are a powerful part of its success. Its history dates back to 1895, when it was founded as the Fort Valley High and Industrial School. It was established through the determined efforts of former slaves and white citizens, embodying an early, powerful commitment to education and empowerment.

• Land-Grant Mission: In 1947, FVSU was designated as Georgia’s 1890 Land-Grant College for Negroes, a mission that continues today through its focus on agriculture, research, and outreach to improve the quality of life for families and communities across the state.

• Transformation: Achieving university status in 1996, FVSU has continuously evolved while maintaining its core mission to provide access to transformative education, making it a powerful symbol of progress and possibility for over 130 years.

The Development Authority celebrates this monumental achievement by Fort Valley State University, recognizing it not only as an academic triumph but as a victory for the economic and social health of Peach County. We look forward to our continued partnership as FVSU "Empowers the Possible" for our community and the next generation of leaders.