Resident Advisors at Penn are on the frontlines of student health and well-being at Penn.

In September 2023, 87% of RAs voted in favor of unionizing with OPEIU 153. This decision reflected RAs collective resolve to have more input and fair compensation for their substantial contributions to campus life.

While RAs had some success in negotiations with Penn, for the past few months RAs have been met with endless delay tactics and disrespect from Penn’s negotiating team. On March 11, the union filed an Unfair Labor Practice charge with the National Labor Relations Board against Penn for surface bargaining.

In order to remedy Penn’s bad faith bargaining, we support the demands from Penn RAs for the following:  

1. Fair compensation including a room, meal plan, and a stipend that does not impact financial aid from Penn.

2. Good faith bargaining from Penn to complete negotiations by May 14, 2024.

The administration’s recognition and fair response to these demands are not merely about enhancing working conditions; it's about respecting and valuing the indispensable human element that RAs bring to the student experience at Penn. This is about ensuring the sustainability of a living and learning environment that lives up to the reputation and standards of Penn.