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Faculty members at Long Island University's Brooklyn campus -- who lost their jobs and benefits over Labor Day weekend when the university imposed a lockout -- on Tuesday rejected the contract proposed by the administration.
Also on Tuesday, the university's Faculty Senate, which represents professors at all LIU campuses, voted no confidence in the university administration.
A statement from Jessica Rosenberg, president of the Long Island University Faculty Federation, which is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, issued this statement: “The administration's decision to lock us out rather than negotiate has already damaged our students and our members. Over the weekend, our health insurance was cut off, with people finding out as they were filling prescriptions. We want to teach our students under a contract that affords us dignity and voice. That is why we're fighting back.”
Gale Haynes, vice president, chief operating officer and university counsel at LIU, released a statement saying that the vote of no confidence was tied to the “contentious” contract negotiations. As for the rejection of the contract proposal, Haynes said, “It’s disappointing that the LIUFF has rejected a contract offer that the university believes is generous and highly competitive. The university will continue to bargain in good faith, with the goal of welcoming its valued faculty back to the classroom upon timely resolution of the contract. During this time frame, we will remain laser focused on our students beginning the fall semester with little or no disruption to their academic studies.”
The American Association of University Professors also weighed in on the conflict Tuesday, issuing a statement condemning the lockout and urging the university to let faculty members return to teaching while continuing contract negotiations.
