EIU Media Relations

EIU Statement on AFSCME Negotiations

EIU respects the negotiation process and values discussions at the table.  In the interest of transparency, this message provides a campus update on EIU and AFSCME Local 981 negotiations.  Since May 2023, AFSCME Local 981 and EIU have been meeting regularly regarding three collective bargaining agreements that encompass nearly 190 employees in the Service, Clerical and Food Court units.  We are pleased that we have found common ground on many critical proposals and the conversations have been productive and respectful.   

The EIU administration is grateful for our AFSCME colleagues and their commitment to negotiating a contract that values and respects their members. For that reason, we have reached tentative agreements on many proposals and are committed to resolving any remaining bargaining items.  To date, EIU has offered AFSCME a robust four-year package with 14% to 20% hourly wage increases depending on employee classification, and more time off including a new paid community service leave program, State-initiated holidays, expanded bereavement leave, and a new parental leave benefit to support families. 

We remain genuinely thankful for all of EIU’s employees and we look forward to their continued contributions as the University advances its critical mission to serve our students, neighbors, and the State.