Dear Colleagues and Community Supporters,

In July of 2020, The University of Akron announced a reduction-in-force-action for 97 full-time faculty. Some of our colleagues were able to retire, but 66 were removed from their positions without cause and with just 5 weeks’ notice. In the midst of a pandemic, they lost their salaries, their health care, their dependent's tuition remission, and their careers. They received zero severance pay, had their UA email accounts deleted, and were forbidden from requesting emeritus status (even though most were tenured, and many had been employees for over 20 years). We are asking you today to help them in a small way.

As an act of support for our colleagues, Akron-AAUP is establishing a one-time donation fund, the "Akron-AAUP Faculty Care Fund." Requirements for eligibility for the fund are here. Net funds collected will be equally split among those who are eligible and who opt-in to the program by 5pm, May 31st, 2021.

All of the Akron-AAUP Executive Committee and Negotiating Team members have committed to contributing to the fund, our donations total over $20,000. Today, we ask that you please contribute as a gesture of solidarity and compassion; your donation will be deeply appreciated by our colleagues. Your generous act will not only benefit them financially but will also pay tribute to their professional service to UA.

PLEDGE USING THE FORM ON THIS PAGE

DONATE NOW BY CLICKING HERE:  

DONATE by check payable to: Akron-AAUP, Faculty Care Fund in memo line, and mail to:

Akron-AAUP

PO Box 528

Akron, OH 44309-0528

*Please note: donations are not deductible as charitable contribu­tions for federal income tax purposes. You should consult your tax, legal and accounting advisor for guidance.

Questions? Please email Victoria@akronaaup.org.

In solidarity,

Pam Schulze, President

Scott Bible, Member-at-Large

Toni Bisconti, Negotiating Team

Kate Budd, Past President

Ed Evans, Negotiating Team

John Huss, Vice President

Rich Londraville, Chief Negotiator

Tim Matney, Grievance Officer

Randy Mitchell, Member-at-Large

Jordan Renna, Secretary

Bill Rich, Negotiating Team

Ira Sasowsky, Treasurer

Stephanie Yuhas, Negotiating Team