Michigan State University recognizes new union for tenure system faculty

The Union of Tenure System Faculty (UTSF) at Michigan State University (MSU) has gained official recognition from the university, marking a significant development after years of organizing and legal challenges. The agreement was reached following verification by a neutral party that confirmed a majority of eligible faculty had submitted authorization cards supporting union representation. This process resulted from negotiations between UTSF and MSU administration.

“This is a historic victory for tenure system faculty at MSU,” the UTSF Organizing Committee said in a joint statement. “For years, we have organized to secure a voice in decisions shaping the future of our institution. With formal recognition, we can now join our colleagues in other legally recognized unions at MSU to meet administration on equal footing. We can secure a legally binding contract that requires administration to work with us. We can negotiate and advocate for the ideals that make our work possible. In times like these, solidarity is our strength, and we will stand together for the future of MSU.”

Nearly 2,000 tenure system faculty members began their campaign after experiencing reductions in salaries and retirement benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting their vulnerability as non-unionized employees. Previous attempts to unionize in the 1970s and 1990s were unsuccessful, making this the first time tenure system faculty at MSU have achieved collective representation.

UTSF is affiliated with both the Michigan Education Association (MEA) and National Education Association (NEA), which are major unions at state and national levels. Leaders from both organizations welcomed MSU’s tenure-system faculty into their ranks.

“MEA is proud to welcome MSU’s tenure-system faculty into our union,” MEA President & CEO Chandra Madafferi said. “These educators fought tirelessly to demand a seat at the table, and MEA will continue to stand with them as they negotiate their first contract. Working together with educators around the state, we can ensure every student gets the opportunities provided by a great public education, from PreK-12 through higher education.”

NEA President Becky Pringle also commented on how unionization supports educators facing various pressures across higher education.

“Every worker deserves a union, and educators who work in America’s colleges and universities are no exception. Higher education faculty nationwide are facing unprecedented challenges, from budget cuts and the elimination of federal funding to political attacks on research and teaching,” NEA President Becky Pringle said. “With UTSF’s recognition, Michigan State University’s faculty know that unionization means they will be heard—and that their voices will make a difference on issues like academic freedom, faculty workload, student learning conditions, and so much more.”

The National Education Association represents nearly three million members including teachers across all levels of education as well as support professionals and public employees nationwide.