Here’s a quick update from the March 6th mediation session. Here’s what happened:
- Management increased their COLA offer from 0.35% to 0.5% in 2025-26 (not retroactive) and 2026-27
- We demanded that management honor or publicly retract the offer of 3% COLAs in Dr. Bennings’ 2/25 email
- We are close to tentative agreement on one no-cost proposal to add information about the health insurance opt-out to the contract.
- With the mediator, we attempted to establish a framework for moving forward next week.
- While we waited for management to come to their senses, we made a video
LINK: Alex Jordan explains why COLAs Matter
We just want a fair contract!
Over the last 10 years, faculty and AP have received a COLA averaging 2.8%/year. During that same span of time, inflation has averaged 3.3%/year. On average each year, we have lost 0.5% ground to inflation. As you can see in the video, that stacks up!
The conversation will continue on Monday and Tuesday. If a deal is not made by then, administration is sending us a clear message – your COLA is not a priority!