The California State University Employee Update

CSU and California Faculty Association Will Go Back to Table
_The following was provided by the CSU Chancellor's Office._ The California State University and the California Faculty Association (CFA) have agreed to return to bargaining on a successor contract in early May to resolve a limited number of issues that remain in dispute.

Both parties have expressed a desire to reach a negotiated settlement. “The CSU remains committed to the negotiation process as the best way to resolve the issues that remain on the table to reach an agreement,” said CSU Vice Chancellor of Human Resources Gail Brooks.

The CSU and the CFA have been bargaining for a successor contract to the agreement that expired in 2010. At the end of the mediation session held on April 6, the state mediator formally certified the CSU and CFA for fact-finding, the next stage of the statutory impasse process. The CSU’s settlement proposal is largely based on the maintenance of status quo, with a limited number of changes that the CSU believes are necessary to maintain the quality of instruction, provide student access to courses, and promote procedural efficiency. More information.

Financial Aid Policy Improvements, Recommendations Sought

The existing CSU financial aid policy regarding State University Grants for graduate students will remain in place for the 2012-13 academic year, CSU Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer Ephraim Smith announced last week.

Campus financial aid offices are being notified that financial aid packages for graduate students can be completed and can include State University Grants, consistent with existing policy.

The CSU had begun a comprehensive review of its financial aid policies and practices in light of the unprecedented budget constraints it is facing. Following a discussion with the campus presidents last week, the Chancellor directed his staff to continue the review and to develop recommended improvements that can take full advantage of federal financial aid, direct aid to more undergraduate students, and protect student access to high-quality academic programs, courses and support services.

Provided by the CSU Chancellor’s Office.