WOU Ratifies Collective Bargaining Agreement with Faculty

"The two sides both worked hard to bring about an agreement that solved more problems, that took less negotiating time, and that was conducted in a far more conciliatory manner than any other agreement over the past twenty years." - Ed Dover, professor and chair of the WOUFT bargaining team

These WOU student will clearly benefit from what is being called the best, quickest and most conciliatory negotiation the school has seen in 20 years. Photo by: Bonnie King

(MONMOUTH, Ore.) - A new collective bargaining agreement between Western Oregon University and the Western Oregon University Federation of Teachers, Local 2278, was ratified Wednesday by a vote of 78-2.

In his reaction to the conclusion of the sometimes complicated process, WOU President John Minahan praised the hard work of the participants in the negotiation.

"The entire university has come together on this occasion. Our ability to overcome challenging times is clearly demonstrated by this agreement. I am confident that we now have a firm foundation for future growth."

Ed Dover, professor of political science, and chair of the WOUFT bargaining team, says he views the agreement as an important step forward.

"The two sides both worked hard to bring about an agreement that solved more problems, that took less negotiating time, and that was conducted in a far more conciliatory manner than any other agreement over the past twenty years."

Major points of the new contract include an across the board increase of 7.5 percent over the two year period, plus step increases for eligible faculty.

It also means a 20 percent increase in faculty professional development funding, additional opportunities to pursue scholarship activities, and improved process and procedures for faculty evaluation, tenure, and promotion.