While the kick-off kickball game launched them to a fine start, it was hard work and unrelenting commitment that led the University of Oregon's Graduate Teaching Fellows Federation/AFT to contract settlement May 2. Likewise, the 1,300 teaching and graduate assistants of the University of Illinois-Chicago Graduate Employees' Organization/AFT celebrated ratification of their first contract after almost a year and a half of negotiations, rallies and meetings. They expect to sign by the end of the month.

Despite a hiring freeze edict from the governor, GTFF fought for raises, riled the membership and walked off the job for a day to stay competitive. The union increased membership to 66 percent, and kept its 1,300 members informed throughout the seven-month bargaining process.

The result: more than $1.5 million more for graduate teaching fellows over the two-year life of the contract. That includes a 10 percent raise over two years, a $72 reduction in student fees, and two weeks' advanced notice on job assignments.

The most impact will come from the renewed healthcare plan: free insurance for fellows during the academic year, and no cost increases to cover their dependents. Other provisions include increased guarantees of job-related supplies, including desk-copies and photocopies; and GTF evaluation of supervising professors. The contract will run from June 2006 to March 31, 2008.

In Illinois, GEO led the way under a new card check law thatprovides automatic union recognition when 50 percent sign union cards. The contract, tentative but ratified May 5 because of the approaching end to the semester, includes a 9 percent raise over the three-year life of the contract, a $2,000 increase in the minimum stipend, and about $366 in yearly subsidies for health insurance. The university also committed to a grad-employee-specific health insurance plan and various measures addressing health and safety, non-discrimination, notice of appointment, and protections for international students. In addition, a fair share policy guarantees dues that will ensure the staffing necessary for contract enforcement.  

The new contract will take effect in fall 2006. [Virginia Myers Kelly]

May 12, 2006