Dear colleagues,
It is with excitement that I announce the selection of Lead Negotiator: Cherie Klassen. Klassen is a lawyer experienced in the field of labour law and has provided legal counsel to AASUA for the past few years. Her in-depth understanding of our Collective Agreement, and years of experience negotiating on behalf of organizations such as the United Nurses of Alberta (UNA), Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE), Alberta Medical Association (AMA), Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA), and the University of Lethbridge Faculty Association (ULFA) make her an excellent fit to navigate the challenges of bargaining that lie ahead. As Lead Negotiator, Klassen will chair the negotiating team involved with bargaining and planning in 2023, and negotiations commencing in January 2024. You can read more about her background and perspective on her work here.
Following Klassen’s selection, we are now opening a call to membership for expressions of interest to serve on the negotiating team. Interested members are invited to send a 500-word writeup including a biographical statement and a vision statement for their service in the role of negotiating team member to me. The deadline for applications is April 30, 2023. AASUA Executive will review all applicants and appoint a subcommittee to conduct applicant interviews. Team members will be appointed by Council on the recommendation of Executive.
Sincerely,
Gordon Swaters
AASUA President