We received many responses to the Caregiving Demands e-Letter circulated to members last week. Faculty members have written about their concerns about equity for caregivers in various collegial processes in the future, such as tenure, promotion, and salary review, the lack of acknowledgement from the University of the stress on faculty, the additional stress of homeschooling […]

Dear USFA members, Please find attached a letter concerning the circumstances of faculty parents and caregivers under the ongoing pandemic conditions. USFA has been asked to initiate informed discussions with the university administration to find equitable, realistic solutions to the unmanageable demands faculty face in carrying full workloads while also providing part- to full-time care […]

In light of COVID-19, the USFA negotiated a Letter of Understanding with the employer that includes provisions for probationary employees. Even though this Letter of Understanding is in place, collegial processes – renewal of probation, tenure, promotion – will still happen this year.  All employees who currently hold a probationary appointment or who are appointed […]

Members of the Committee on Women’s Issues are reaching out to let you know we are thinking about you. COVID-19 has changed our personal and professional lives dramatically. The sudden transition from campus to home, urgency to reconfigure classes, assignments, and final exams put a tremendous amount of pressure on us all. With little understood […]

In addition to the regular CAUT publication, the Bulletin, the website for CAUT has a wealth of information regarding COVID-19 and the academic workplace: Frequently asked questions Results of a national survey of post-secondary staff The latest on remote teaching Information on special income support measures Subscribe for regular updates and the monthly CAUT newsletter.

During this pandemic there are a lot of people stepping up to keep things moving, including USFA members. Not only are you at home working, with all that entails, you are dramatically changing the way you work.  Your contributions to the U of S and to our community are invaluable.  Thank you! “The University Works […]

We have received inquiries from members about working from home expenses eligible for reimbursement. The University website outlines guidelines for purchasing items for working at home.  The following are a few of the highlights from the guidelines: You will not be reimbursed for any computer equipment and software purchases that are made independently without authorization from […]

We have been receiving questions from members regarding office access on campus. For one-time access to campus office space, faculty must receive approval from their supervisor and contact the Protective Services office to arrange to be let into the appropriate building.  Faculty who are required to work regularly on campus are to apply for a […]

CAUT, along with researchers and other unions, worked with the Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers to develop a survey on COVID-19 workplace experiences. Data collected from this survey will help with focused and accurate approaches to workplace health and safety and general working conditions during this pandemic. We encourage you to participate This survey […]