Inside Higher Ed
Labor Watch: Big SUNY Contract Ratified, AAUP Dives Into Politics
## Labor Watch: Big SUNY Contract Ratified, AAUP Dives Into Politics - A Quick Update
Things are shifting in higher education labor relations, and here’s the lowkey scoop. The biggest news? A significant contract has been ratified at SUNY (State University of New York), a win for faculty and a solid indicator of growing momentum in union negotiations nationwide. This contract, secured after dedicated bargaining, likely addresses key areas like compensation, workload, and job security—all critical for supporting faculty and ultimately, student success.
Beyond the SUNY victory, the landscape remains active. We’re seeing increased union activity across various institutions. Notably, skilled trade workers at California State University recently disrupted a board meeting to amplify their demands, demonstrating a willingness to take direct action. Simultaneously, faculty at Howard Community College have filed an unfair labor practice charge, signaling a potential legal challenge.
The American Association of University Professors (AAUP) is also stepping up, increasingly engaging in broader political conversations surrounding higher education funding and policy. This expanded role suggests a strategic move to influence systemic changes impacting faculty rights and working conditions. For those interested in the broader implications of food insecurity on student success, check out our recent article, "Food Recovery Fuels Student Success."
It's a busy time for labor in higher ed, and we’ll keep you locked in on these developments. Expect more bumps in the road, but also expect progress—it’s all part of the process.
