A summer gathering of the United Methodist Church at Kansas Wesleyan University in Salina contributed an estimated $841,280 to the regional economy. The Great Plains Annual Conference brought in more than 800 hotel room bookings and spurred spending on meals, transportation, and local goods, according to university officials. Vendors and retail businesses across the area also participated in supporting the event. n nThis marks the highest single-event economic contribution in the institution’s history. Dr. Matt Thompson, president of Kansas Wesleyan, emphasized the university’s commitment to community engagement and regional development. He highlighted KWU’s role as a center for cultural, athletic, and academic activities, noting that events like this reinforce its broader mission. n nThompson also pointed to the longstanding relationship between the university and the United Methodist Church, dating back nearly 140 years. He described the conference’s economic success as a natural extension of that enduring partnership. Looking ahead, KWU plans to host additional high-impact events, including the KCAC baseball and softball championships, which have previously drawn close to 1,000 ticketed attendees, not counting athletes and staff. n nUniversity leaders encourage local residents to participate in upcoming campus-hosted activities, underscoring their goal of strengthening community ties through shared experiences. n
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$841,280 Economic Impact From Methodist Event
A Methodist gathering in Salina at Kansas Wesleyan University this summer generated over $800,000 to the local community. n nAccording to the school, more than 800 hotel rooms were reserved as part of the Great Plains Annual Conference event, in addition to food and other expenses. Further, local retailers and vendors were involved in making this event a success. n nThe total local impact is estimated at $841,280. It is believed to be the largest single-event local economic impact figure in KWU history. n n“We’re pleased to see that this event was beneficial for our local economy,” said Dr. Matt Thompson, KWU president. “Whether we’re hosting major events, welcoming students back to campus or growing our workforce, our goal is always to make positive contributions to our community. We are proud that KWU is a hub for athletic, music, theatre, and community-based events. The annual conference was a great example of this, and we look forward to discussions regarding hosting it again soon.” n n“Our university has a long association with the United Methodist Church,” said Thompson. “From the beginning, KWU and the Church have been intertwined. It’s only fitting that, after nearly 140 years, the largest economic impact event our university hosted this year was a UMC event.” n nKWU projects several key events to have a notable economic impact for Salina this academic year, including the KCAC baseball and softball championships. In past conference championship events in those sports have approached 1,000 combined tickets sold, not including the 20-40 student-athletes involved, per team. n n“All of us at KWU are excited to host numerous events on campus and throughout the region this year,” said Thompson. “We hope everyone in the community makes plans to be a part of an upcoming Coyote event.” n n_ _ _ n nPhoto via KWU