Update on the Latest Bargaining Session with SHENS-UAW Local 7902, Student Health Employees
On November 20, the university bargaining committee and representatives of SHENS-UAW Local 7902 (SHENS), the union representing our Student Health Employees, met and made good progress towards a new collective bargaining agreement.
The university opened the session with a revised comprehensive package of proposals which included significant movement on wages. Specifically, the university offered:
- A wage increase for counseling staff to a minimum of $52/hour in year 1 of the contract—matching the union’s proposal—with an increase of 4% in year 1 for all other positions in the bargaining unit.
- A further 2.5% annual increase in years 2-5 of the contract for all positions in the bargaining unit.
It is important to the university that we remain competitive within the job market to attract and retain high performing employees, and from our perspective the best way to do that is to ensure our total compensation package addresses the needs of a diversified group of employees. We believe this enhanced wage offer, combined with our other economic proposals, is strong and reflects input received from the union during negotiations.
During the session, agreement was reached on a number of benefits the university had previously offered. This includes professional development funds, an enhanced uniform provision, and enhanced access to certain benefits in retirement.
In addition, several other issues were resolved through discussion, including an agreement to maintain current contract language in the areas of non-discrimination, disability rights, grievance process, and the no strike, no lockout clause.
We are aware that SHENS unit members voted last Friday to authorize a strike. This vote does not mean an actual strike is planned or imminent—only that SHENS union leaders have the authority to call a strike if they deem it necessary. Further, it is important to note that due to the nature of their work, SHENS is required to provide at least 10 days advance notice of any strike activity. Yesterday’s bargaining session demonstrates our ability to have productive discussion and to work together toward a mutually beneficial agreement. The university will continue to bargain in good faith and will remain focused on ensuring the availability of vital healthcare services for our students.
The union responded to the university’s wage proposal at the end of the session, and the parties agreed to meet again on Monday, November 27 to continue the progress made yesterday.
As always, you can stay updated by checking our Union Negotiations page, signing up for emails here, and following @KnowOurNewSchool on X/Twitter and on Instagram.