Graduate teaching assistants (GTAs) at Illinois State University have agreed to a new contract after a year of negotiating.
The Graduate Workers Union (Service Employees International Union Local 73 or SEIU) says the agreement makes substantial progress in working conditions and compensation.
A majority of teaching assistants get an immediate 10% raise that dates back to last August. All teaching assistants will get a 3% raise next year and 2.5% in 2026.
"We saw the importance of coming together, attending rallies and meetings, and making our voices heard. However, the work does not stop here. This second contract is part of a longer process to build union power and solidarity on ISU’s campus so that all workers are paid a living wage," said graduate instructor Addison Lamb.
The union said in a statement its members "overwhelmingly" approved the new contract, but did not indicate the vote tally. According to the group's social media, 93% voted in favor of the deal.
The university has also reduced mandatory student fees for GTAs. They will get a 15% fee waiver this semester, 25% waivers in the 2024-25 academic year and 30% the following school year.
The pact also allows for union representation when graduate assistants file harassment and discrimination complaints.
“We appreciate the strong vote from members of SEIU Local 73 to ratify a competitive, sustainable, and fiscally responsible settlement agreement after nearly a year of negotiations,” said university spokesperson Chris Coplan.
The contract takes effect immediately. The first labor agreement between ISU and SEIU expired last June.
ISU currently employs about 440 graduate teaching assistants.
