State-System Faculty Strike Ends, Garners Headlines in New York Times, Washington Post

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Homecoming festivities at West Chester University took place as scheduled after the state system's faculty strike ended after three days on Friday afternoon. Photo courtesy of West Chester University.

apscufAfter garnering headlines in the New York Times and Washington Post, the first faculty strike in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education’s 34-year history is over, having officially lasted three days.

Last Friday afternoon, faculty and administrators at the 14 state-supported universities reached a tentative agreement on a three-year contract that will run through June 30, 2018.

The strike abruptly halted the education of approximately 105,000 students, including those at West Chester and Cheyney universities.

An overwhelming majority of the members of the Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties refused to cross the picket lines, forcing schools to use staff and administrators or simply dismiss classes.

In the wake of the tentative agreement, which must be ratified by the PSSHE’s board of governors in Harrisburg and by APSCUF members, the State System still faces severe strains, including a 12 percent enrollment loss in six years — more than 30 percent on some campuses — and lagging state aid.

untitled“We all agree that the higher education of our students is a top priority, and I am thrilled that today students can go back to class and professors can teach them,” said Gov. Tom Wolf, whose office, along with other political leaders, was involved in brokering a resolution.

“Coming to a final agreement was challenging, and it took a lot of effort from everyone involved, but I appreciate (the State System) and APSCUF coming together to reach a final agreement on a contract that is fair for professors and university faculty and the State System.”

State system leaders also thanked Gov. Wolf.

“Once again, everyone can focus on what matters most — teaching and learning,” Board Chair Cynthia D. Shapira said in a statement.

“Today is an opportunity for a fresh start,” said State System Chancellor Frank T. Brogan. “Throughout this process, our students have been remarkably patient, and they should be applauded. Now, we look forward to making sure the rest of the year ends strong for them and for our talented faculty.”

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