Last week over sixty members of PSU-AAUP joined together for our fall general membership meeting. Colleagues from across campus gathered over a nice lunch to create solidarity and also to receive updates from member leaders about current and upcoming concerns. President José Padin shared with members reminders to keep an eye on the upcoming Oregon legislative session. We need to continue our work to advocate for higher education in Oregon. Vice President for Academic Freedom and Grievances Jennifer Ruth shared with us her commitment to protect academic freedom here on campus; she also reminded us that she is available to assist members who might have a concern about their working conditions through both formal and informal means. Her non-pdx e-mail is available on the PSU AAUP website if you would like to reach out to her. Member of the collective bargaining team Leanne Serbulo spoke with members in some detail about the upcoming collective bargaining session and process, and urged members to attend listening sessions with the CB team in upcoming months. You should be hearing from your PSU AAUP Unit Rep soon about when the CB team is coming to your department. The CB team will also be holding listening sessions for members who identify as persons of color, AP's, NTTF, Women, Parents and Caregivers, and members of the LGBTQ community. Finally: it was just great to gather together and remind one another that we are stronger together.
Jennifer Kerns
VP Membership & Organizing