Springing Into Action 

As a Michigan resident, I am excited by this time of year because the arrival of spring brings with it signs of renewal and positive energy. After days of limited sunshine, it is wonderful to feel the environment physically transforming itself. Similarly, I find myself energized by the changes being brought forth within higher education by organizing efforts.

A steady flow of negative news and destructive policy developments tends to obscure the fact that higher education faculty, staff, and students are currently engaged in meaningful collective actions. These remarkable efforts are not only protecting our institutions from regressive attacks, but are promoting and expanding opportunities for teaching, learning, research, and shared governance.

By way of example, I want to highlight two outstanding organizing success stories. First, in October, the Union of Tenure System Faculty (UTSF) at Michigan State University received formal recognition as a collective bargaining group. This agreement is a critical step forward to empower faculty and its impact will be felt across the campus.

Second, a campus organizing drive at New Mexico State University brought together NEA Higher Ed leaders from across the U.S. to work in teams on that campus, building support to secure a first contract. This campaign resulted in the recruitment of new members and the emergence of new campus leaders. It is worth noting that both of these universities had previously rejected faculty unionization efforts.

These efforts are critical to protect workers’ rights. They serve not only to secure financial security for members but also respect and dignity for their work.

Look for more of these stories and campaigns to unfold in 2026.