United University Professions (UUP) Oneonta and SUNY Oneonta administration announced an agreement yesterday that will give adjunct lecturers the chance to seek advancement. The college and union, which represents teaching and non-teaching professional employees, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) creating opportunities for part-time faculty members to receive promotions, along with increases in pay, greater job security and access to faculty development funds.
“We are excited to offer this opportunity,” said UUP Oneonta President Dave Lincoln. “Many of our part-time faculty members have been teaching at SUNY Oneonta for quite some time. The possibility for promotion and career development demonstrates that they are valued in our community and recognizes that our students benefit from their contributions.”
While full-time, tenure-track faculty members may progress in rank from assistant professor to associate professor and then professor, until now there has been no career ladder for part-time employees whose primary responsibility is teaching. In a joint, campus-wide message earlier today, UUP Oneonta and the college noted that the MOU grew out of their shared commitment to work together constructively for the betterment of employees, the college, and the students that all employees serve.
SUNY Oneonta President Barbara Morris said the MOU reflects the inclusivity of the campus community. “I began my career in higher education as an adjunct lecturer, so I understand the dedication of those who teach part-time through my own experience,” she said. “SUNY Oneonta is fortunate to have many adjunct faculty members who are fantastic in the classroom, inspiring and guiding students year after year. It’s time to acknowledge and reward this.”
The Adjunct Lecturer Promotion and Evaluation Program will go into effect this fall. Eligible part-time faculty members will be able to apply for promotions after the start of the 2019-2020 academic year.