The Latest from AAUP-BHSNJ

In this difficult time, we want you to know we are doing all we can on your behalf. During the last week, we have been working on the following:

Library Closure: The AAUP-BHSNJ in coalition with other unions pushed Rutgers to close its libraries. Some of these buildings were crowding in as many as 40 people at a time at unsafe social distances. This was unsafe for faculty, staff, and students alike. On Saturday, under pressure from the Governor's office and us, Rutgers finally took this step.

PPE: We continue to advocate for you and your colleagues at a state and federal level. It is simply unacceptable that any healthcare provider should have to ration or reuse equipment and put their lives at risk. If you would like to support your colleagues all over the country, you can sign national petitions here and here.

Probationary Clock Extension: Along with the Rutgers AAUP-AFT, we requested that Rutgers extend the probationary clock for those faculty on tenure-track appointments. We are pleased that Rutgers had agreed to do so. (See March 20, 2020 email "Changes to Faculty Evaluation Process in Response to COVID-19")

Continuation of Faculty Contract Bargaining: We have provided Rutgers are latest proposal in an effort to wrap up negotiations. Now, more than ever, the University needs to support our faculty on the front lines of this crisis. We sincerely hope that recent events drives home how valuable academic medicine is to our communities and our country. A negotiated agreement that strengthens your safety and health, extends paid parental leave, and invests in professional development would go along way towards achieving that goal. Rowan bargaining is also scheduled for April.

Do not hesitate to reach out to us with questions or concerns.

Diomedes Tsitouras

AAUP-BHSNJ

Executive Director