NMU-AAUP votes in favor of new contract

MARQUETTE — After months of negotiations, it appears that the NMU-AAUP has a new contract with the school.

The faculty union voted to support a new contract Thursday, with 135 ‘yes’ votes to 25 ‘no’ votes. The new contract is a five-year deal.

Full-time faculty will receive a pay increase of 1.6% in the first year, while part-time faculty members will receive a 4% raise in the first year. According to the union, the contract has significant cost increases to faculty members for their health insurance.

“This agreement allows faculty salaries to keep pace with inflation and increasing health care costs; it is a break even deal,” said NMU-AAUP Chief Negotiator Brent Graves.

There is also a provision in the contract that would reward faculty members with bonuses if enrollment increases. The contract must be approved by the Board of Trustees at their June 19 meeting.

If the Board of Trustees approves the contract, it will take effect on July 1.