Ohio University Faculty Union Election: State Dismisses University’s Objections – Athens County Independent

ATHENS, Ohio — The State Employee Relations Board has officially certified the faculty union at Ohio University, clearing the way for contract negotiations. This decision comes after the board dismissed the university’s objections to the election results.

After investigating the situation, the board found “insufficient evidence” to support Ohio University’s claims against the union’s election process. More than 70% of faculty members who participated in the March vote chose to unionize.

“We’re thrilled to be certified,” said Rachel Terman, an assistant professor and union organizer. “Now we can focus on negotiations with Ohio University.”

Ohio University raised concerns about the union’s campaign methods, including claims of holding members-only meetings and issues with mail-in ballot distributions. However, the union called these allegations “absurd” and “meritless,” emphasizing that such findings could hinder labor organizing across the state.

Ray Geis, the administrative law judge overseeing the investigation, supported the union’s stance. He noted that limiting members-only meetings could restrict unions from communicating effectively during representation efforts. Under Ohio law, public employees have the right to organize, and Geis highlighted that concerns raised by the university did not outweigh this right.

Geis critiqued the university’s argument about mail-in ballots, stating they offered little evidence to prove their claim. He concluded that even if the allegations were accepted, they wouldn’t be enough to overturn the election results.

“To set aside a union election should not be punitive but should protect free choice,” he explained. “There’s no substantial indication of coercion in this case.”

Meanwhile, Ohio University is evaluating the board’s order but has not announced whether it plans to appeal the ruling.

This certification reflects a growing trend in academic labor organizing, with more faculty nationwide advocating for collective bargaining rights. As universities face increasing demands for transparency and fair working conditions, faculty unions are likely to play a pivotal role in shaping future labor relations.

For further insights into faculty unionization trends and labor rights, you can visit the [American Association of University Professors](https://www.aaup.org).

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Ohio University,State Employee Relations Board,United Academics of Ohio University