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Mercy Faculty Forward

Finding Their Voice

The Story of SEIU 200United and Mercy Faculty Forward

In the sprawling landscape of higher education, a silent crisis has long simmered beneath the surface: the precarious existence of adjunct faculty. Often paid meager wages, without benefits, job security, or a meaningful voice, these educators form the backbone of many institutions, yet remain largely invisible. But at Mercy College, now Mercy University, a powerful movement emerged from this quiet struggle, leading to the formation of Mercy Faculty Forward (MFF) as a proud adjunct chapter of SEIU 200United.

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The Unseen Pillars of Academia

For years, adjunct faculty at Mercy, like their counterparts across the nation, bore the brunt of an increasingly corporatized higher education model. They taught essential courses, mentored students, and contributed to the academic life of the institution, often moving from semester-to-semester contracts, uncertain if their courses would be renewed or their income sustained. This “gig economy” model for scholars meant that highly educated professionals were often living paycheck to paycheck, denied the basic dignities and protections afforded to full-time employees. Academic freedom, a cornerstone of higher education, was frequently curtailed by the fear of non-reappointment.

The Spark of Solidarity

The seeds of unionization at Mercy were sown not from a top-down mandate, but from the everyday conversations in hallways, faculty lounges, and parking lots. Adjuncts began to share their frustrations: the lack of a living wage, the absence of health insurance, the arbitrary nature of course assignments, and the feeling that their dedication was unappreciated. They realized that their individual struggles were part of a collective problem, and that a collective solution was needed.

This growing awareness found a powerful ally in SEIU 200United. Known for its robust history of championing workers’ rights across various sectors, SEIU 200United extended its expertise and resources to the emerging faculty movement at Mercy. Organizers from SEIU 200United provided training, legal guidance, and strategic support, helping faculty navigate the complexities of labor law and build a strong, unified campaign.

Building a Movement: From Whisper to Roar

The organizing drive at Mercy College was a testament to the courage and commitment of its adjunct faculty. They began to meet, quietly at first, discussing their rights and the potential benefits of forming a union. Fear of retaliation was real, but the desire for dignity and respect outweighed it. One at a time, faculty members signed union authorization cards, demonstrating their desire to collectively bargain for better working conditions.

This grassroots effort eventually gained critical mass. When enough cards were signed, SEIU 200United filed for a union representation election with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). The campaign intensified, with faculty members openly discussing the union, dispelling misinformation, and building solidarity across departments and campuses.

The Birth of Mercy Faculty Forward

The hard work, dedication, and solidarity paid off. The adjunct faculty at Mercy College voted overwhelmingly in favor of forming a union. This victory marked a pivotal moment, not just for the individual educators, but for the principle of shared governance and worker dignity in academia.

Following the successful election, Mercy Faculty Forward (MFF) was officially formed as the adjunct chapter under the umbrella of SEIU 200United. MFF represents the collective voice of the adjunct faculty, empowered to negotiate with the university administration for a legally binding contract that addresses their core demands.

A New Chapter: The Fight for a Fair Contract

The formation of Mercy Faculty Forward was a monumental achievement, but it was also the beginning of a new chapter: the fight for a first contract. The goals of MFF are clear:

  • Fair Compensation: Wages that reflect their expertise and contributions, allowing them to make a living wage.
  • Job Security: Clearer criteria for reappointment, notice of course cancellations, and a pathway to more stable employment.
  • Access to Benefits: Health insurance and retirement plans, ensuring their well-being.
  • Academic Freedom and Professional Respect: A voice in departmental decisions and protection for their intellectual pursuits.
  • Just Cause: Protection against arbitrary dismissal.

The journey to a first contract is often challenging, requiring sustained advocacy and negotiation. However, with the backing of SEIU 200United’s vast resources and the unwavering resolve of its members, Mercy Faculty Forward is poised to usher in a new era of equity and stability for adjunct faculty at Mercy University.

A Beacon for Higher Education

The story of SEIU 200United’s organizing at Mercy College (now Mercy University) and the establishment of Mercy Faculty Forward is more than just a local labor victory. It is a powerful testament to the transformative power of collective action and a beacon of hope for adjunct faculty nationwide. It demonstrates that when educators come together, find their voice, and align with dedicated unions like SEIU 200United, they can reshape the landscape of higher education, ensuring that those who educate our future generations are afforded the dignity, respect, and compensation they deserve.