Retrenchment of PSU-AAUP Members in IELP

On February 4th, President Percy, per Provost Jefford’s recommendation, formally notified PSU-AAUP that the University will proceed with layoffs in the Intensive English Language Program (IELP) pursuant to Article 22 and Article 23 in the Collective Bargaining Agreement. While this is not unexpected, the announcement does formally begin the processes and procedures outlined in Article 22 and Article 23. 

Articles 22 and 23 provide for input and participation from all stakeholders involved, including Administration, PSU-AAUP, Faculty Senate, and the department itself. The last few years of the former federal administration, coupled with the pandemic, have had a devastating impact on international education. However, we do see hope for rapid changes in the near future, and PSU-AAUP stands ready to offer alternatives in order to limit the impact of these decisions so the University can remain poised to meet the demand of anticipated and rapid changes to the global landscape in the near future. In addition, we believe that there is an abundance of expertise amongst IELP Faculty and APs that can be redirected immediately to meet the needs of current University initiatives. PSU-AAUP stands ready to participate in the processes and procedures outlined in Articles 22 and 23 and will work diligently to maintain the program and its Faculty and AP positions to the maximum extent possible in order to meet current University initiatives and to be prepared for future opportunities. 

We invite you to attend the Budget Town Hall on February 22 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. (at this URL: https://video.ibm.com/channel/vGfGtyfbjwL), and we also encourage you to keep your eyes open for more ways to participate in these discussions and support the IELP as the upcoming weeks unfold.