Congratulations to the Bucknell Residential Adviser Union (OPEIU Local 153) on their tide-changing win! You’re an inspiration to all workers on this campus, in the region, and across higher education! You are making this university a better place for all.
From the Bucknellian: “On Wednesday, Feb. 12, in a culmination of negotiations that began in August of 2024 and have been ongoing on a monthly basis since, the Bucknell Residential Advisors (RAs) voted in favor of a new contract. Bucknell’s RAs voted to join the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OEPIU) Local 153 on April 4 of last year.
A priority for RAs going into bargaining was compensation, with RAs previously receiving a credit for the full value of their housing, a $100 stipend per semester, a free parking pass, and 10% off at Barnes and Noble. As a result of the new contract, RAs will receive a biweekly payment totaling $800 by the end of each semester applied as payroll so as to not affect financial aid qualifications or packages, with a $40 union due automatically deducted each month. Additionally, RAs will maintain their housing credit and receive a credit the value of 20% of the most expensive meal plan towards a given RA’s meal plan selection, also still receiving the parking pass and Barnes and Noble discount.
Increased job security is an another agreement reached in this new contract— RAs are now guaranteed Just Cause Protection. Additional items include Medical Amnesty for RAs, . . . automatic reappointment for any RA with a satisfactory job record, more input in housing placement, agreed upon RA-to-Student ratios and protections against discrimination, for fair and free speech in the workplace and for safe working conditions.”