NMU Board Approves AAUP Contract

The Northern Michigan University Board of Trustees approved a new NMU-American Association of University Professors (AAUP) contract, which was previously ratified by the faculty membership on May 15. The agreement covers one year for financial provisions and five years for non-financial elements.

Senior Associate Provost Dale Kapla, who led the university's negotiating team, shared financial details with the board. For the upcoming fiscal year starting July 1, AAUP continuing faculty will receive an across-the-board salary increase of 3.25%, and a one-time payment-not added to base-of 0.5% of salary.

Continuing contingent faculty, or those who have worked part-time at the university for several years and play an important role, Kapla said, will receive a one-time, $600 payment. The agreement also includes a new formula for promotions.

"I want to thank both the university and AAUP negotiating teams, led by Dale [Kapla] and Professor and AAUP President Rick Mengyan," said NMU President Chris Olsen. "I appreciate their hard work and the level of transparency exhibited on both sides."

Kapla said starting July 1, 2027, the university and AAUP will negotiate the remainder of the agreement by addressing financial provisions including across-the-board salary increases, additional teaching assignments beyond the normal 12-credit teaching load, summer course salary rates, professional development funds for faculty travel, and promotions. Non-financials, commonly referred to as "contract language," will be in effect for the full five-year duration of the agreement.