PA-AAUP Participates in APSCUF Political Institute

This year’s APSCUF’s Political Institute had a new participant organization: the PA-AAUP Conference! In the past two years our Conference Board has worked closely with key education unions and advocacy organizations in the state to defend academic freedom, faculty rights, the importance of research, and college affordability and access.

The Institute, held this year in Grantville on March 27-28th, drew education unions and organizations. These included the Association of Pennsylvania State College & University Faculties (AFT Local 1421), the American Federation of Teachers, Pennsylvania State Education Association, United Steel Workers, and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees. Over a two-day period, participants discussed the many challenges facing higher education. There were roundtable sessions, hands-on training for engaging with elected officials, and talks by legislators and their staff. The second day’s agenda featured a session on federal policy and politics.

The Political Institute, says Jessica Sponsler, Conference Board secretary, “served as a powerful reminder that all faculty members, whether at public or private institutions, are deeply impacted by shifting political winds and budget battles.” Sponsler adds that, “It is crucial that we stand together in solidarity. I was proud to support my colleagues in higher education unions, knowing that their advocacy ultimately lifts us all.”