3.10.25

Dear students, faculty and staff:

The UPI Local 4100 Non-Tenure Track Faculty Union, which represents 43 non-tenure-track faculty, delivered a Notice of Intent to Strike on March 7 prior to receiving the University’s latest proposal. While this action means that the union can opt to strike any time after a 10-day waiting period, no sooner than March 17, it does not mean that a strike will occur.

We are disappointed that the union would file a Notice of Intent to Strike, especially with two additional bargaining sessions scheduled for March 14 and 18. UIS also has requested additional sessions, but to date the union has not agreed.

Our contract negotiations with the UPI Local 4100 Non-Tenure Track Faculty Union began in March 2024, and we have met at least 20 times, including nine sessions with an independent federal mediator. The University’s goal throughout the past year of negotiations has been to balance an intent to fairly compensate our valued teaching colleagues for their important contributions, while also ensuring progress to reduce the University’s structural deficit. A work stoppage will do nothing to change the constraints that limit what UIS can ultimately provide in a new union contract.

To date, the University and the union have reached 11 tentative agreements of the approximate 20 articles being negotiated. We currently are addressing issues related to compensation and workload.

UIS remains committed to fulfilling our educational mission. Should a strike occur, we have measures in place that will minimize the impact on students’ academic progress, including grades and exams. We will continue to bargain in good faith and do everything within our power to avoid a disruption to learning.

I remain hopeful that we will be able to reach a fair, sustainable and fiscally responsible agreement with which both parties can be satisfied. Please visit our Bargaining website for the most up-to-date information regarding this matter.

Sincerely,

Janet

Janet L. Gooch, Ph.D.
Chancellor
University of Illinois Springfield