BARGAINING
UPDATES

June 30, 2026

On Tuesday, we met with the administration’s bargaining committee, and we came to an agreement on a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for advanced stipend payments. Those who do not receive an August stipend and opt into the advanced payment, will now be able to receive $1,200. 

Prior to today's session, we sent another MOU proposing a 7% interim raise. Similar to the agreement made in December, this is a temporary provision while we fight for a permanent raise in the near future. We want to ensure that graduate workers are paid fairly, and we are doing all we can to support workers in the meantime. We had productive conversations on our international employees and health and safety proposals, we also put forward a new pay schedule counter.

To get connected to our organizing committee’s efforts, follow @pittgradunion on social media and get connected to an organizer in your field by clicking here.  

See this and previous updates and newsletters here. Don’t forget to fill out your membership card if you haven’t already, or to fill out this form if your working conditions change. The administration will NOT have access to your membership card information (including whether or not you signed one) until our first contract is ready for ratification.

In solidarity, 

Your bargaining committee 

Lauren Wewer, Chair (MEMS)  
Alisa Omelchenko, Recording Secretary (SOM)  
Keanna Cash (SOE)      
Chi-Tsung Chang (English)  
Hollen Tillman (SSW) 
Emily Ruttenberg (Math)
Emily Wheelis (Neuroscience)
Matt Nader (USW)
Nate Kilbert (USW)
Don Shaffer (USW)