BARGAINING
UPDATES

October 15, 2026

On Thursday, we were anticipating receiving counters on our economic proposals so we can start a meaningful conversation and get closer to a contract. However, we have yet to see a response. The ball is fully in the Administration's court, and we are frustrated by their blatant stalling. The administration has over 10 people on their committee including deans who say they care about grads at Pitt: Bob Parker, Saleem Khan, Panos Chrysanthis, and Michael Walsh Dickey. And yet they are unprepared for bargaining sessions scrambling to bring counters to the table.

If you are tired of the University not giving you the fair working conditions you deserve, get involved in organizing (click here) or learn more about our next steps by coming to the next general body meeting Thursday November 5th 5-6pm (location TBD). This meeting is open to all graduate workers regardless of union affiliation and will have pizza!

While we didn’t talk about economics, we did exchange proposals on Bargaining Unit Work and Hours of Work. These proposals will protect us from being overworked and prevent the institution from replacing our positions with temporary workers and undergraduates. If you want to join future bargaining sessions, sign up here. 

Don’t forget to fill out your membership card if you haven’t already. 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.

See this and previous updates and newsletters here. Also, fill out this form if your working conditions change, including changes in the cost of prescription medications. 

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)
Jackson Wallace (Physics & Astronomy)
Matt Nader (USW)
Nate Kilbert (USW)
Don Shaffer (USW)