On the first day following the conclusion of the strike by the Graduate Teaching Fellows Federation, the Board of Trustees of the University of Oregon heard impassioned comments from campus community members regarding trust and shared governance.
Interim President Scott Coltrane called for understanding and community building in the wake of the work stoppage and concerns regarding proposed changes to the policy development process, noting, “We need to focus on rebuilding trust. How do we work together and how do we do this better next time?”
“It is important to listen,” said Frances Bronet, acting provost and senior vice president. “We all have a lot of mutual listening to do, and we have work to do. We take this very seriously; I want to reassure you of that.”
Rob Kyr, university senate president, called for “continued, committed interaction at the highest level,” between the senate and the board and the need for a “process of healing.”
Kyr’s comments echoed those of Carla McNelly, president SEIU Local 503, who asked the board to “please let us help you be successful.”
“We’re at a critical time,” said Ron Bramhall, senior instructor of management. “This is an extraordinary time for this university.”
“Input from the faculty and the academic leadership is important to help us understand where were good and where we can be great,” said Chuck Lillis, board chair.
“We are unified in our desire to seize this opportunity for a true renaissance for the University of Oregon,” said Trustee Ann Curry.
Following public comment and regular reports, the board moved into its business agenda. Trustees approved:
- A master of science in sports program management;
- A policy exempting the university ombudsperson from mandatory reporting obligations under Title IX, as a way to enable the position to maintain confidentiality;
- A new tuition and fees process resolution;
- A set of resolutions regarding bonds executed by the state;
- The authorization of $50 million in general revenue bonds for approved capital projects; and
- A new housing project.
—By Tobin J. Klinger, Public Affairs Communications