ADA, Okla. – East Central University (ECU) has been a cornerstone of Ada’s economy and identity since its founding in 1909. With the support of state and local leaders, ECU was established just two years after Oklahoma achieved statehood and has grown from a modest teacher-training school into a distinguished regional university that fuels workforce development, drives economic growth and enhances quality of life throughout the region.

Today, ECU’s 43-building campus spans 135 acres, with its newest investment—the Dan Hays STEM Center—now under construction. The new facility, named in honor of Chickasaw citizen Dan Hays who donated the university’s original 16-acre site, will house ECU’s nursing, math and computer science programs. Upon completion, it will allow the university to significantly expand STEM enrollment and meet critical workforce needs.

“ECU is proud to be known as Ada’s University,” said ECU President Wendell Godwin. “The combined presence of ECU, the City of Ada, Chickasaw Nation, Pontotoc Technology Center, CLEET (Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training) and the Kerr Environmental Research Center makes our community the envy of rural Oklahoma. Most towns our size would be thrilled to have just one of these institutions—we have them all. What’s good for one is good for all, and ECU is proud to play a central role in that shared success.”

Ada City Manager Tommy Eaton, a proud ECU alumnus, echoed that sentiment, “I’m thankful for the role ECU plays in our community. Beyond offering a great education and numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth, the university makes a powerful economic impact—creating jobs and drawing visitors from across the state.”

ECU by the Numbers: A Rural Powerhouse

According to a 2024 report by Economics Center Research and Consulting:

  • ECU generated $231.95 million in statewide economic output.
  • It supported 2,338 jobs—directly and indirectly—with $114.36 million in wages.
  • It contributed $7.77 million in state and local tax revenue, including $4.22 million in income tax and $3.5 million in sales tax.
  • For every $1 in state appropriations, ECU returned $14.45 in economic output to Oklahoma taxpayers.

ECU employs more than 477 faculty, staff and part-time employees. Over 3,600 students are projected to enroll this fall, with more than 2,000 living on or near campus. Many students work, volunteer and shop locally, directly impacting the Ada economy. Each year, ECU graduates 700–800 students, many of whom remain in Oklahoma to serve their communities and drive long-term workforce growth.

A Magnet for Visitors and Revenue

Eaton added that ECU’s influence extends well beyond the classroom, “The many events hosted on campus throughout the year not only enrich the lives of those who attend, but also boost our local economy in meaningful ways.”

In 2024 alone, ECU hosted an estimated 100,000+ visitors through a wide variety of events:

  • 60,000+ fans attended ECU athletic events and local high school tournaments.
  • The Hallie Brown Ford Fine Arts Center drew 30,000 attendees for performances, competitions, and national productions.
  • The Chickasaw Business and Conference Center welcomed 12,100 guests for conferences and special events hosted by university departments, the Chickasaw Nation, and regional partners.

These events generate hotel bookings, restaurant traffic and retail spending, creating a consistent economic ripple throughout the Ada community.

Investing in Ada’s Future

ECU is also leading the $36.3 million ECU Forward Capital Campaign, a comprehensive fundraising initiative to expand academic programs, strengthen infrastructure and keep higher education affordable. Central to the campaign is the construction of the Dan Hays STEM Center, scheduled for completion in 2026.

“ECU is more than a university—it’s an economic driver, a community partner and a launchpad for opportunity,” said Godwin. “We are proud to grow with Ada and serve as a force for good in this region.”

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