Graduate student workers are essential to this university. We teach classes, lead discussions, grade assignments, mentor students, conduct cutting edge research, and perform essential operations to keep the university running every day. We are deeply committed to providing a high-quality education—and to supporting the students and families who rely on this institution.
Two years ago, we voted overwhelmingly to form our union, with 98% in favor! Since then, we have been negotiating our first contract to secure the basic conditions we need to do our jobs well and sustain our lives while doing them.
We are fighting for a fair contract that includes a living wage, affordable healthcare, protections against discrimination and overwork, and support for international workers, parents, and those facing a growing housing crisis.
These aren’t just workplace issues—they directly impact the quality of education students receive. When graduate workers are supported, students benefit from more available, more focused, and more effective instructors.
Right now, progress on our contract has been slow, and key protections remain unresolved. That’s why community awareness and support matter.
If you’re a parent, student, alum, or community member, your voice can make a difference! By standing with graduate student workers, you are standing up for fair working conditions, strong educational standards, and a better university for everyone.
| Ways to Support! |
| 1. Tell every grad worker you see that you appreciate the work they do! Show solidarity to grad workers! Teaching assistants, research assistants, graduate assistants, pre-doctoral fellows and trainees have been negotiating for our first contract for 2 years now and it’s been a long fight. |
| 2. Let the UVM Administration know grad workers deserve a fair contact now! Send UVM’s President (president@uvm.edu), Provost (Linda.Schadler@uvm.edu), and/or Dean of the Graduate College (hhoock@uvm.edu) a quick message to stop delays and settle a fair contract now. |
| 3. Follow us on Instagram! Share our posts! Tag us on Instagram showing your support @uvmgsu |
