Pennsylvania State University Faculty Union Joins National AFT in 2025

APSCUF Aligns with AFT in New Union Affiliation

HARRISBURG, Pa. - This week marked a significant development for faculty and coaches at Pennsylvania’s state-owned universities as they voted to join forces with the AFT. The Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties (APSCUF) conducted the voting from Monday to Wednesday, with ballots being counted today at their Harrisburg office. The affiliation will officially commence on January 1, 2025.

Dr. Kenneth M. Mash, President of APSCUF, expressed enthusiasm about the new partnership. “We are excited to join forces with a national union with AFT’s reputation and track record,” Mash stated. He believes that this collaboration will enhance their ability to support students, faculty, and coaches and promote the importance of higher education both statewide and nationally. Dr. Mash is eager to collaborate with AFT President Randi Weingarten, commending her dedication to workers' rights and education.

The AFT, known formerly as the American Federation of Teachers, is linked with the AFL-CIO and represents a diverse membership that includes 1.8 million pre-K through 12th-grade teachers, school-related personnel, higher education staff, government employees, nurses, and early childhood educators. AFT boasts over 3,000 local affiliates across the country.

AFT President Randi Weingarten welcomed APSCUF into the organization, emphasizing their shared mission of ensuring accessible and affordable higher education. “We share the same goal: accessible, affordable higher education that enables our colleges and universities to be the economic, social, and academic engines of our communities,” she said. Weingarten highlighted the challenges faced by State System campuses in Pennsylvania, underscoring the necessity of unity to secure their future and resources for students. She affirmed, “We are truly stronger together, and the AFT will have APSCUF’s back as we fight every day to improve teaching and learning and help our members get the respect they demand and deserve.”

Historically, APSCUF has been affiliated with various unions but maintained independence since the 1990s. Under this agreement with AFT, APSCUF will continue to operate independently concerning policies, collective bargaining, and staffing.

Dr. Mash reiterated, “We are still APSCUF — just stronger together.”

APSCUF represents approximately 5,000 faculty and coaches across the State System campuses, including Bloomsburg, California, Cheyney, Clarion, East Stroudsburg, Edinboro, Indiana, Kutztown, Lock Haven, Mansfield, Millersville, Shippensburg, Slippery Rock, and West Chester.

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