NMU Faculty Approves Contract Proposal

Northern Michigan University faculty members have voted to accept a new labor agreement with the school. The vote yesterday on the five-year deal was 135 “yes,” and 25 “no.” 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. Chief Negotiator Brent Graves called it a “break-even deal.” 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 19th meeting. If the Board of Trustees approves the contract, it will take effect on July 1st.