The members of the Burlington County College Faculty Association and the Rowan College at Burlington County Support Staff Association are working without a contract. They continue to provide exceptional service and instruction despite the fact that their contracts expired in June 2021.
Despite the commitment and dedication of the faculty and staff, the college refuses to provide a settlement above 2.99% because they don’t like the “optics” of a 3% settlement, or higher.
At a time when educational institutions are struggling to fill positions, the college’s decisions to draw this arbitrary line in the sand due to “optics” is puzzling.
Both local associations are in mediation with the college, but little to no progress is being made. The college wants increased concessions without improved salaries or benefits.
At a recent board of trustees meeting, the two local presidents brought together their members to show the board that that “optics” of disrespecting quality faculty and staff is worse than paying them fair salaries and benefits.
Donna Podolski is the president of the Rowan College at Burlington County Support Staff Association and William Whitfield is the president of the Burlington County College Faculty Association. Standing strong together, these two local associations will continue to fight for what is right for their members.
