With WMU/WMU-AAUP negotiations set to begin early this summer, we’re eager to provide members and allies with all the information you need to help ensure that Western Michigan University faculty earn a fair salary, and that all campus employees secure the benefits they deserve. Remember, some of the key terms negotiated by the WMU-AAUP impact, not just professors, but nearly every employee group on campus.

The timeline and what’s on the table

Negotiations are slated to begin no later than June 15—just four short months from now—and will be restricted to two key contractual areas: Article 32 Economic Compensation, and Article 33 Health Care Benefits and Insurance. This is an abbreviated version of negotiations, then, what is sometimes referred to as a “wage reopener,” with the WMU/WMU-AAUP Agreement as a whole not expiring until 2026. 

The team and the nature of its work

The current negotiation team was selected according to Chapter bylaws through a process that began with a member-wide call for nominations and culminated in final approval by the Association Council (the WMU-AAUP’s body of department representatives). Our four-person team includes Dr. Andrew Hennlich (Chief Negotiator), Dr. Regina Garza Mitchell, Dr. Jean Kimmel, and Dr. Cathryn Bailey (WMU-AAUP President and Ex-Officio team member). The team meets regularly to discuss negotiation strategy, help coordinate research related to salary and benefits, seek member input, and to undergo training and development. Of course, once negotiations actively begin, the team will sit across the table from WMU’s team (as yet to be announced) to negotiate faculty salary and benefits.

Member input/college visits, survey, and more

The process of collecting member input about negotiation concerns is ongoing, with the Chapter continually updating its file about what members think should be prioritized. In addition to encouraging members to reach out at any time to share their experiences and offer insights, visits by team members and Executive Committee members are currently underway in individual colleges. In addition, a detailed survey vetted by the team, focused on questions about salary and benefits, was circulated to members by email recently, providing a convenient opportunity to share detailed input.

Show your pride and support

In the coming weeks and months, there are a number of ways you can support negotiations and help lay the groundwork for success. 

  • If you’re a WMU-AAUP member, make sure you know who your department representative is. If your unit has an open seat, ask to be considered by your colleagues to serve in this role or encourage a qualified colleague. Having active representation on the Association Council is never more critical than during negotiations.
  • Stop by Montague House (814 Oakland Ave.) from 10-12 most business days to pick up posters, stickers, and more so that you can show your pride. Alternatively, let us know if you’d like us to mail you these materials directly. 
  • Order a WMU-AAUP t-shirt and be prepared to wear it in solidarity with colleagues to help send a message of solidarity. The link to order is here. 
  • Be sure to follow the WMU-AAUP on Facebook, visit our blog and our website where you’ll find tons of valuable information, including the WMU/WMU-AAUP Agreement and contact information for officers and representatives.
  • Stand ready to participate in all actions and initiatives as this process unfolds, keeping in mind that our power lies in the demonstrated solidarity of all of us! 

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