Temple resident assistants vote in favor of unionization.
In a significant development reflecting a growing trend in higher education, resident assistants (RAs) and peer mentors at Temple University have decided to unionize, officially aligning themselves with the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU) Local 153. This decision comes during an era marked by increased student-worker organizing across various academic institutions.
The voting process took place over four hours on Tuesday, with 97 of the 126 eligible members of the bargaining group participating. Each voter supported the move to unionize, highlighting a strong commitment among student workers to advocate for better working conditions and representation.
Gavin Dellaria, a sophomore resident assistant at Temple, expressed a common sentiment among his peers prior to the election. He emphasized that unionization is not a reflection of dissatisfaction but rather a step toward ensuring that all students in similar roles have enriching and supportive experiences. His comments underscore a broader desire among student workers to foster an environment that prevents burnout, which can be prevalent in such demanding positions.
Several months ago, in an effort to formally establish their collective voice, student workers presented a letter to Temple University leadership requesting voluntary recognition of their union. As noted by Scott Williams, the lead organizer for OPEIU Local 153, this unionization represents a milestone, marking the first occasion where undergraduate student workers at a public university in Pennsylvania have come together for union representation.
A spokesperson for Temple, Stephen Orbanek, commented on the university’s historical commitment to establishing positive working relationships with its collective bargaining units. He expressed optimism for a similar collaborative relationship with the Temple Union of Resident Assistants (TURA), underscoring the institution’s appreciation for the contributions of student workers.
The responsibilities of resident assistants and peer mentors at Temple include a range of duties, such as meeting with residents, coordinating events, and attending weekly staff meetings, with a minimum expected commitment of 20 hours per week. In terms of compensation, these student workers receive free housing, a meal plan, and a nominal stipend of 0 per semester, which is designated for tuition.
Concerns regarding compensation prompted the organizing efforts; specifically, Williams highlighted a recent shift in the university’s payment structure that eliminated “diamond dollars” from the student workers’ compensation packages. Temple officials, however, characterized this change as an adjustment rather than a reduction in pay.
The move toward unionization at Temple is part of a broader movement across the region, with similar unions established at neighboring institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, and Swarthmore College in 2023. Notably, resident assistants at Penn secured their first union contract in June 2024, further reflecting a growing wave of labor organization within academia.
Temple University has a robust history of union representation among various employee groups. In 2023, a significant strike took place involving the university’s graduate student union, representing 750 members. Additionally, as contract negotiations continue for nurses and technicians at Temple Health, a recent authorization vote has been cast, setting the stage for potential labor action should agreements not be reached before the specified deadline.
Overall, the unionization of resident assistants and peer mentors at Temple signifies a pivotal moment in student labor rights, as these emerging voices seek to enhance their working conditions, ensure fair treatment, and establish a sustainable academic environment.
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