Greetings PSU-AAUP:
I hope the new academic year and fall term are off to a good start!
PSU-AAUP Member Meeting October 2nd, 2014
Thanks for turning out for the membership luncheon last Thursday at the Native American Center. It is important to say that your commitment to our union really shines while volunteering for the numerous Task Forces and Committees that need our representation. There seems to be a bumper crop of committees this year and so thank you very much!
At the luncheon, we heard from Rayleen McMillan, Vice President of the Associated Students of PSU. She walks the talk of "faculty working conditions are student learning conditions," and we appreciate her taking time from her busy life to be such a solid contributor to our community.
Thanks Rayleen!
Patricia Schechter, Executive Council member and Chair of PSU-AAUP's Legislative and Political Action Committee introduced two guests who spoke to us about higher education in the next legislative session: Lew Frederick from House District 43, and Tina Kotek, from House District 44 and Speaker of the House. They both advised that we be active during the upcoming legislative session and that we remain committed to our students and to the academic mission of higher education.
Thanks to Patricia! We also thank both Mr. Frederick and Ms. Kotek for joining us at our fall membership luncheon!
Senator Jeff Merkley's "Fighting for College Affordability Tour"
Senator Jeff Merkley came to PSU as part of his tour of all college campuses in our state to discuss affordability and to offer some solutions to this crisis. I introduced the event with a short speech. More importantly, I announced PSU-AAUP's endorsement for Senator Merkley in his bid for re-election to the U.S. Senate. He shares our values about public education, living wages, and worker's rights. Two PSU students also shared their stories about the cost of higher education, Rayleen McMillan, a senior, and Andrew Davidson, a freshman.
Reminder: 3 Caucuses in October all held at noon and lunch provided!
- Academic Professionals' Caucus will be held on Tuesday, October 14 at noon in Smith 238
- Non Tenure Track Faculty Caucus will be held at noon on Wednesday, October 15 in Smith 327
- Tenure Track Faculty Caucus will be held at noon on Tuesday, October 21 in Smith 238
Take care,
Pam Miller
PSU-AAUP President