Frequently Asked Questions
We have often been asked about legal issues, union affiliation, faculty governance and about collective bargaining in general. We have tried to make our answers as accurate yet concise as possible. If you have any questions that either aren't answered here, or aren't answered thoroughly enough, please let us know. We want you to make a fully informed decision.
Legal issues surrounding union representation and collective bargaining.
- Does a signed contract have the full force and effect of law?
- Can a contract be unilaterally changed by a party to that contract?
- If we form a faculty union, will we have to go on strike?
- If we form a faculty union, must we defend a faculty member who is unfit to continue in his/her position?
- If we form a faculty union, must everyone join the union and pay dues?
Collective bargaining in higher education
- What is collective bargaining?
- Why should faculty collectively bargain?
- Are other faculty members around the nation members of unions?
Shared governance, union representation, and collective bargaining
How a faculty union and collective bargaining would affect the faculty
- Will union representation and collective bargaining enhance our salary and working conditions?
- What is the record of negotiations at other higher education institutions in neighboring states?
- Does a negotiated contract offer greater security than the current shared governance agreement?
- What are some of the benefits and services NEA provides faculty unions?