Cambridge, MA – This week, 87% of Lesley University Core Faculty members voted to ratify their tentative agreement with Lesley University. For over two years, 82 unionized Core Faculty workers have been bargaining with the university for a new union contract.
These core faculty members, or non-tenured salaried faculty, are represented by SEIU Local 509. Since 2024, these union members have been fighting for fair compensation, manageable workloads, and more worker protections. Workers have made enormous strides in this hard-won agreement.
Key wins in the contract include:
- Increased wages
- This includes backpay to January 2025 and January 2026
- Greater investment in faculty
- Increased minimum salaries and a commitment to fill permanent vacancies with permanent faculty
- More manageable workloads for faculty, including limitations on increases to class sizes
Despite the many challenges that Lesley has faced in recent years, including financial instability and operational mismanagement, workers continued to fight for the strong contract they deserve.
“This contract is a testament to the strength and perseverance of our members and their commitment to solidarity. We’re proud of their achievements in greater compensation and manageable workloads at a tumultuous time for the Lesley community. By standing together and fighting for what they deserve, Lesley Core Faculty have done right by each other and their students,” said Dave Foley, SEIU Local 509 President.
“After two years of tireless bargaining and dismissiveness from the administration, I’m so proud that my union has reached this agreement with the university. After a two-day strike earlier this spring, we showed our strength and our determination. I am so relieved, but I know that the fight isn’t over. We’ll continue to advocate for each other and the Lesley community,” said Catalina Tang Yan, an Assistant Professor and PhD Director in Counseling Psychology.
“We reached an agreement that shows meaningful investments and commitment to Lesley faculty and our students. For years, Lesley offered us far less than we deserved, and we came together to fight for more. I’m inspired by the resilience of the labor movement and our commitment to dignity at work,” said Kelvin Ramirez, a Professor in the Division of Expressive Therapies.
The contract will be effective until June 30, 2029.
