5/13/24 Newsletter

Bettering Retirement Healthcare Benefits Together

Many of us are accustomed to thinking of our benefits as one of the best aspects of working at UM. But at least in one area – retirement – our benefits are less generous now than they were five, ten, or especially twenty-five years ago. It takes longer to qualify for full retirement benefits, and those retiring today will pay a lot more for health insurance than our predecessors did.

So far, many of the existing unions at UM have been able to delay these changes, holding back cost increases for a few years at a time. By itself, that can save members hundreds of dollars per year in retirement! But as more and more staff unionize and our collective power grows, we can fight for a more secure, more affordable retirement.

Staff Voices

"I joined USU because being the son of a lifelong UAW member has shown me that there is strength in numbers. Unionizing gives us a chance to make permanent those things we love about our jobs, while eliminating the things that we don't. We do the jobs that keep the University running, and together we can create a fair and equitable workplace with competitive pay and benefits for all. -Matt Pohutski, Housing Assignment Coordinator" "I joined our union because I'm tired of staff being mistreated by tenure-track faculty and I think it's time we stand together and demand respect. - Nathan Sadowsky, Academic Program Manager, Earth and Environmental Sciences"

Tell Your Story

One of the best ways to help others feel at ease in joining the union effort is to share your story about why you support USU. Please fill out this form or contact us to set up an interview.

It’s Safe to Sign!

Did you know that signing your union card is confidential? Your name and signature will be stored in a database only the union organizers can access. When we file for recognition, a neutral third party will verify employees’ signed cards; University management does not receive the list.

Once we have won our first contract and begun receiving all the benefits we’ve earned, University payroll will see that you are a member – this is when dues will begin to be withdrawn. Of course, we’ll only reach this point once a majority of staff in our group sign up, so you’ll be in good company.

Upcoming Events

Info Sessions & Drop-In Hours

Virtual Session
Every Thursday at 6:30pm
Contact us to ask for meeting info

Weekly Drop-in – Lunch Hour
Wednesdays 12-1pm
Contact us to ask for meeting info

Weekly Drop-in – After Hours
Tuesdays 6:30-7:30pm
Contact us to ask for meeting info