Dear Colleagues,
I have a short update from UTFA concerning the on-going status of negotiations with the administration as well as information about UTFA’s finances, budget, standing committees, legal and workplace advice, and UTFA’s academic citizenship award.
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As we reported in our October update, UTFA’s Negotiating Team engaged in three formal mediation days with the senior Administration in October to address unresolved salary, benefits, workload, and select policy issues. We have also now booked our first (binding) arbitration hearing date–February 10, 2025. Until then, and as long as it remains productive, UTFA’s Team will continue to work with the mediator and the Administration. Stay tuned for a separate communication updating you on our progress at mediation.
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Did you know you can join most UTFA committees as a regular member? Committees help inform UTFA’s bargaining priorities (e.g. workload, housing-related benefits), positions (e.g., retiree access to MS 365, defending academic freedom), workshops (e.g., pre-tenure and pre-continuing status sessions), and social events (e.g., new member welcome luncheons and post-AGM party). If you are interested in shaping the work of your Association you can find a list of UTFA standing committees and contact information here.
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UTFA’s 2023 - 24 audited financial statements can be found here. As a result of wise governance, fiscal prudence, and the hard work of our staff, UTFA realized a significant operating surplus. The strong performance of our investments this year further supported a very healthy bottom line for the Association. Council also approved the UTFA’s 2024 - 25 budget in accordance with paragraph 8.3 of our By-laws.
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UTFA’s Legal and Advice team provides formal, confidential advice and representation on workplace matters and grievance support to faculty and librarian members. You can reach them with any workplace issue (big or small) at advice@utfa.org.
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Do you have a colleague who has made a significant contribution to our understanding of the relationship between the University and public life? UTFA’s Academic Citizenship award celebrates colleagues who encourage the positive engagement of academics and social issues, work to extend democratic and accountable practices within the University itself, or make outstanding contributions to the well-being of their community. If you know someone who deserves recognition, please consider emailing the chair of the Membership committee at dancer@utfa.org.