Dear Colleagues,

We are pleased to report that we are finally able to proceed with voluntary recognition of United Faculty of Florida as the union representing our faculty.

We have said many times that we would be willing to voluntarily recognize UFF if they would file the necessary petition. This path prevents unnecessary expense and delays for both the union and the administration. In a letter to the statewide UFF we reiterated our position, and said we would try to move the process forward by other means if the union did not file for voluntary recognition by March 21. On that date, they notified us they would proceed with the voluntary recognition petition. We are pleased Mr. Auxter, the statewide UFF President, and the local membership decided to pursue this path, and we look forward to working with them to develop a strong contract for our faculty.

The paperwork should be filed with the Public Employees Relations Commission (PERC) shortly, and upon receiving its order approving the petition, we will begin collective bargaining. As always, we will keep you updated as this process continues.

Sincerely,

Judy Genshaft

President

David Stamps

Provost