“A fraction of the $666 million surplus reported this year would cover the fair contract we’re seeking.”
Bloomington-Normal, IL – Recently released financial reports from Illinois State University (ISU) reveal a $14 million dollar increase in surplus in 2024 and that same amount, on average, for the past five years. Despite that good news, ISU administration refused to offer a viable contract to the United Faculty of ISU (UFISU, UPI Local 4100) in mediation today.
Negotiations started between the two parties a year ago, shortly after the faculty union was formed. UFISU and the university began bargaining with the help of a mediator in January of 2025, but as of yet, no agreement has been reached.
“There is a striking difference between the financial picture painted by ISU administration in bargaining and what the numbers show in these reports,” said Tice Sirmans, Associate Professor in the Department of Finance, Insurance and Law and co-lead negotiator for UFISU. “The data shows us that the university is in a healthy financial position to make investments in our students and faculty, rather than make cuts. A fraction of the $666 million surplus reported this year would cover the fair contract we’re seeking, show faculty that they are valued, and contribute to student success. Why not invest it now, in current students and faculty?”
Faculty didn’t receive raises in 2024 and university administrators instructed department leads to find and make across-the-board cuts to their internal budgets, impacting teaching, learning, and research. ISU claimed financial hardship, contrary to what data portrays. Apart from competitive compensation needed to better attract and retain the high-quality faculty that ISU students deserve, UFISU is seeking more academic support for students.
“Today’s mediation session was disappointing,” said Ashley Farmer, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice Sciences and co-lead negotiator. “ISU administration is opting for austerity measures despite having the funds to address student needs and faculty concerns now. The university’s mission commits to creating the most supportive and community possible, and we’re holding the administration to that. We will not give up on fighting for a fair contract and the investment in our students that the ISU community deserves.”
The two sides meet with a mediator again on March 19. Items still on the table include compensation, workload requirements, leave policies for new parents and caregivers, and university commitments for student mental health support.
The United Faculty of ISU (UFISU) is a chapter of the University Professionals of Illinois (UPI, IFT Local 4100) represents nearly 3,000 faculty and professional staff at eight of Illinois’ 12 public universities. UPI is affiliated with the 103,000-member Illinois Federation of Teachers, the 1.7 million-member American Federation of Teachers, and the AFL-CIO.