FAMU and UFF Reach Tentative Agreement on Collective Bargaining

TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- The Administration of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) reached a tentative agreement today on the Collective Bargaining Agreement with the United Faculty of Florida (UFF).

The FAMU and UFF agreement provides for a 1.5 percent across the board wage increase to the base salary, retroactive to August 1, 2014. The agreement also provides for a $250 one-time bonus payment to all members employed on August 1, 2014, and a 1 percent, one-time bonus payment to all UFF bargaining members who have been continuously employed at FAMU for 10 years, obtained the rank of full professor, and are employed as of the date of ratification. The wage increases will take place within 60 days after full ratification.

The agreement also provides for the creation of a committee to develop a University-wide evaluation process. The FAMU Administration will determine the composition of the committee with the option to invite faculty to participate, subject to the approval of the UFF. A draft of the evaluation process will be submitted by the Administration to the UFF no later than November 16, 2015 for negotiation purposes.

Commenting on today’s agreement, President Elmira Mangum said, “Our faculty are the cornerstone of this University. I look forward to working with them along with the entire University family to address improving the outcomes of our performance metrics and the concerns that challenge our long-term viability as an 1890 land-grant university. Today’s agreement with the UFF is a positive step in that direction.”

UFF President Elizabeth Davenport, Ph.D., echoed President Mangum’s sentiment when she said, “The UFF members are optimistic that this agreement will be the start of a strengthened relationship with the FAMU Administration and the start of a renewed focus on enhancing the educational experience for our students in today’s environment.”

She added, “The members of the UFF are committed to working with the Administration and the FAMU community in promoting the well-being of our members and preparing our students to compete in the 21st century global economy.”

COURTESY FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY MEDIA RELATIONS