A major win for adjunct faculty! The Oregon Employment Relations Board (ERB) has sided with Portland State University's (PSU) adjunct faculty union, ruling that the university violated state labor law. This decision mandates PSU to release specific funds, sparking celebration and highlighting a crucial battle for fair labor practices. But what exactly happened, and why does it matter? Let's dive in.
On October 17, 2025, the ERB issued an order against PSU. The ruling stems from a case where the university was found to have unlawfully withheld funds intended for members of the Portland State University Faculty Association (PSUFA), the union representing over 1,200 adjunct faculty and researchers.
According to the ruling, PSU withheld funds designated for professional development and emergency financial assistance over the summer. Union leaders estimate that approximately $100,000 was withheld. The ERB's decision requires PSU to immediately release these funds, along with a 9% prorated interest. This victory is seen as a significant step for the adjunct faculty.
"It’s a major victory for adjunct faculty and for the adjunct faculty union," stated Vasiliki Touhouliotis, PSUFA Bargaining Chair, at a rally. She emphasized that the ruling sends a strong message that PSU is not above the law.
The heart of the matter lies in the concept of maintaining the “status quo” during contract negotiations. The union's contract with PSU expired on June 30th, and negotiations are ongoing. The ERB determined that PSU was obligated to maintain the existing conditions of employment, including the payment of these funds, while a new contract was being negotiated. PSUFA filed an unfair labor practice complaint in August, arguing that the university violated this status quo by withholding payments.
But here's where it gets controversial... The funds in question are a lifeline for adjunct faculty. At the rally, union members shared how these funds help cover essential expenses like housing and food during emergencies. Rachel Hibbard, an adjunct professor with over 25 years at PSU, expressed her concern about not being reimbursed for a professional development workshop. She highlighted the uncertainty this created, especially as she prepared to teach a class that directly related to the workshop's content.
PSU acknowledges the board’s determination but argues its actions did not constitute bargaining in bad faith. A PSU spokesperson noted that the board denied the union’s request for a civil penalty, as the university's approach was not deemed egregious. The university is now considering an appeal of the decision.
This dispute over funds arises amid a challenging budget crisis at PSU. University leaders have announced plans to cut nearly $35 million from its operating budget by 2027. This follows a previous downsizing effort last school year, which addressed an $18 million deficit through program and staff reductions. Negotiations between faculty and administration are ongoing as they attempt to agree on a new contract.
"These funds that the university didn’t release were already bargained and budgeted for," said Alli Schisler-Blizzard, PSUFA’s chair of membership. She believes the issue is less about PSU's budget and more about the university exerting its power over marginalized faculty.
What do you think? Do you agree with the ERB's decision? Do you think PSU's actions were justified, given the budget crisis? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
