What has The Union Done for You Lately?

FA, AFT 6157 RECOMMENDS to CHANCELLOR PEREZ ADDITIONAL STAFF DEVELOPMENT MONEY: $75,000-Chancellor’s Fund for Faculty Professional Development

Last October, the Faculty Association, AFT 6157 recommended to the Chancellor that the $75,000 set aside for the special election for the Board of Trustees be allocated to a faculty staff development fund. Once it was clear that there would be no contested election, the one time money which had been allocated could now be allocated elsewhere or placed back into the general fund. What better place to spend the money than well needed staff development for faculty. The funds from the state had dried up 6 years ago.

At that time, the Governor had not allocated his one time only staff development money (it is not in the proposed 2007-8 budget), but even with the state money, the Union knew that the needs of faculty were greater than the $70,000 which was shared between campuses.  We made the suggestion to the Chancellor in October 2006 and on the April 10th, 2007 Board of Trustee agenda, the allocation was made and approved.

Here is what Chancellor Rosa Perez wrote to the Union:
“You will see a $75,000 transfer from the election expenses on the April Board agenda.  David thanks for the idea on the name for these staff development funds [Chancellor’s Fund for Faculty Professional Development].  They will be split between the colleges and unspent funds will roll over.”
“Of course you should take credit for making the great recommendation.”

The Union is pleased to continue to make strides in winning well deserved money for faculty staff development, but also in continuing to build and strengthen its relationship with the Chancellor and administration, to enable us to get to this win/win situation.

To all faculty, continue to search deep for workshops/courses/programs/travel and other staff development that will increase and enhance your place in the classroom and on campus. Remember that these funds are there for not only for your development as an instructor in your course work, but also to enhance your skills as a leader and full participant in our diverse and engaging Community College environment and to create an environment of growth and success.