June 23, 2015

SVSU Board Approves Contract with Support Staff Union

The Saginaw Valley State University Board of Control approved a contract with the SVSU Support Staff Association (MEA/NEA) during its regular session Monday, June 22.

The three-year agreement covers the period from July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2018.  Terms call for wage increases of roughly 1.25 percent for each of the three years covered by the contract (1.28 percent for 2015-16; 1.26 percent for 2016-17; 1.25 percent for 2017-18).

“Our support staff employees provide valuable service to the university,” said SVSU President Donald Bachand. “ I regularly hear favorable comments from parents and visitors about the outstanding appearance of our campus, and regarding the professionalism and positive attitude of secretaries and other front-line employees.”

The Support Staff Association represents 183 employees, including secretaries, clerks, and campus facilities personnel.  Union membership ratified the contract Thursday, June 18.

“This was one of the most pleasant bargaining experiences we’ve had,” said Tish Yaros, administrative secretary for Information Technology Services and president of the Support Staff Association.  “Everyone was very willing to work with us, and we are happy to reach an agreement that is beneficial to all affected.”

Similar to the contract approved with the SVSU Faculty Association last year, the contract includes modest adjustments in the capped contributions the university makes to employees’ health care coverage.