University of Oregon, faculty union avoid strike after 'intense negotiations'
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – After four days of “intense negotiations,” the University of Oregon and a faculty union reached a tentative agreement on Sunday -- averting a strike that was planned for Monday, United Academics of the University of Oregon announced.
In a letter sent Sunday from Provost Christopher Long to University of Oregon faculty and staff, Long explained, “We are pleased to report that a tentative contract agreement has been reached between the University of Oregon and United Academics. Our understanding is that United Academics will not be initiating a strike tomorrow and instead will be taking this tentative agreement to their members for a ratification vote. Classes and other university activities and operations should not be affected as we begin spring term. This resolution marks more than an agreement—it signals a transition from a season of uncertainty toward one of renewal and growing trust.”
Long said the university was pleased to have reached an agreement that invests in faculty and supports the financial well-being of the school.
“We recognize that an unresolved collective bargaining agreement and the prospect of a faculty strike have been unsettling for our community. Thank you for your patience as we worked our way through this evolving situation. Disagreement is a natural part of any community committed to growth," Long continued. "While uncomfortable, working through conflict can also deepen our relationships and open new opportunities for meaningful connection. As we begin the Spring term, may the spirit of collective work that led us to this tentative agreement take root and grow, nourished by our shared commitment to one another, our students, and the entire university community.”
In a letter announcing the tentative agreement to its members, United Academics of the University of Oregon -- a union representing more than 1,600 faculty members, said, “Your bargaining team has been in mediation all weekend trying to wrap up a fair contract and avert a strike. It has been a tough negotiation, but your strength and engagement has helped us arrive at a tentative agreement.”
According to United Academics, the union will hold a ratification vote this week, along with information sessions to talk members through the agreement.
“If the membership votes to ratify the contract, then we return to work as usual. During the ratification period, do your job duties as usual. If the membership votes to not ratify the contract, then the bargaining team goes back to the table to fight for more, and the membership goes on strike,” United Academics wrote.
The tentative agreement includes an 18% salary floor increase for career instructional faculty and the establishment of a $52,000 career instructor floor, a spokesperson for the union told KOIN 6 News.
Along with salary negotiations, the union is also bargaining for other provisions such as expanded benefits for sabbatical and other leaves, support for faculty review processes, professional development time for career faculty and discussions over faculty teaching loads.