By Jennifer Fuller
Carbondale, IL – SIU Carbondale faculty and Administration negotiating teams return to the bargaining table this morning, hoping to reach a consensus on a new contract. The two sides broke after more than 24 hours of talks Monday with each side considering proposals the other brought to the table. Faculty Association Spokesman Dave Johnson says despite the lack of a deal, some genuine bargaining took place with the assistance of a federal mediator.
A statement from Chancellor Rita Cheng last night provides details of the administration proposal including an overall 4% raise in pay over the life of the contract, additional definitions of financial exigency and other items aimed at addressing the Faculty Association's concerns about tenure and academic freedom. Both sides say they'll return to the table this morning at 9:30, or earlier if a deal is ready to finalize.