The 2025-2026 academic year is well underway. With another new academic year comes new challenges and opportunities. As you’re maneuvering your way through these and other matters, know that the USFA is here to assist you.
We want to extend very warm welcome to new USFA members and say, “Watch for an invitation to lunch at the University Club.” We have an autumn tradition of meeting with new members over lunch. These lunches are an opportunity to meet USFA staff and Executive members and colleagues from other departments who are in the first years of their appointment. During these lunches we will explain the role of the USFA and the value of the Collective Agreement and answer any questions or concerns you might have.
The USFA has an Executive Committee for the upcoming year comprised of 11 members rather than the possible total of 13. There are two vacancies left unfilled after elections that took place last spring. Your 2025-2026 USFA Executive Committee members are:
- Geraldine Balzer, Curriculum Studies, Chair
- Matthew Mitchell, Political Studies, Vice-Chair
- Julita Vassileva, Computer Science, Secretary
- Haizhen Mou, School of Public Policy, Treasurer
- Doug Chivers, Biology
- Allyson Glenn, School for the Arts
- John Gjevre, Medicine
- Paula MacDowell, Curriculum Studies
- Allison Muri, English, Chief Negotiator
- Yannick Tremblay, Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology
- Colleen Bell, Political Studies, and Liz Quinlan, Sociology, Senior Grievance Officers (shared)
During the upcoming year, the Executive Committee will continue its work on building the engagement of members and building connections with other bargaining units and student groups on campus. We will get preparation for our next round of bargaining underway by beginning to gather information from members about what’s important for you in upcoming negotiations.
We will also be continuing efforts to build the involvement of members in the union. It’s vital to the health and longevity of the USFA that more members, particularly early and mid career members, become involved. That is not to discourage in any way participation from any USFA member, but it does recognize the need for succession planning. As the year progresses, watch for ways to be involved.
We have no doubt that 2025-2026 will be another busy year. As it progresses remember that the USFA is your union. It is an important resource during your career at the U of S. Do not hesitate to contact us with your questions and concerns. We want to hear from you.