Commentary: The American Federation of Teachers New Mexico released the following statements in response to the recent representational campaign at Highlands University:
“We stand behind the staff at NMHU and their desire to be recognized as a bargaining unit in our union, and we support their right to organize for fair wages and better working conditions. With the recent announcement of significant tuition increases and several new costly executive positions, as well as a $500,000 cut to faculty, staff, and administrative positions at NMHU, this application for recognition is timely,” said Kathy Jenkins, Co-President of NMHU Faculty and Staff Association.
“Our union is excited to continue the momentum at Highlands University and build upon the successful recognition campaign we won in January of this year. With Governor Martinez’s persistent attacks on working New Mexicans, we want to do everything we can to ensure hard working NMHU staff members have the protections they need for fair wages and safe working conditions,” said Stephanie Ly, President, American Federation of Teachers New Mexico.
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The new unit would consist of administrators, directors, library, and other staff positions that keep the university running from day-to-day. The American Federation of Teachers New Mexico and National Education Association New Mexico jointly represents staff and faculty members at New Mexico Highlands University.