President's Message: Labor Day Thanks
As Labor Day approaches, I want to take a moment to wish each of you a happy, restful, and meaningful holiday. Labor Day is a unique holiday—it’s not just a day off, but a day that truly recognizes and celebrates you. This day is dedicated to honoring the essential contributions of workers across the country—and here at OHSU; that means you! No matter your role, the work you do is the backbone of our institution, and the accomplishments we achieve together are a direct result of your dedicated labor. I hope you find time to reflect on the impact you make and to take pride in what we build together.
I'd also like to take this opportunity to update you on our ongoing contract negotiations for 2025–2028. Our AFSCME bargaining team has been working tirelessly to secure a strong agreement that reflects your value and addresses your needs. While we’ve reached many tentative agreements with OHSU, key areas such as wages, differentials, benefits, and worker protections are still being negotiated.
We’ve heard concerns about the pace of negotiations. Although we remain within the timeframe typical of past contracts, several unique challenges have made this round feel longer:
Possible Merger with Legacy Health System: We began negotiations while considering a potential merger with Legacy Health. Had it proceeded, both our union and employer would have nearly doubled in size, adding significant complexity to the process.
Leadership Transitions: Changes in leadership—both federally and within OHSU—have influenced our bargaining priorities and strategy. We began drafting contract language before the national elections, and the evolving landscape of federal funding, labor rights, and scientific research and support for education continues to shape our work.
A Massive Contract: We’re currently working on over 200 open articles. It’s a heavy lift, but we’re committed to ensuring these changes make your working conditions better, clearer, and more equitable.
I want to extend deep gratitude to our bargaining team, who are not only giving up their Tuesdays but also countless hours of personal time to represent all of us. Thank you as well to the colleagues in your home departments who step in and keep things running while bargaining members are away. And to the families and loved ones supporting our team—your sacrifices make this work possible and extend far beyond your homes.
A special thank you goes to Kate Baker, our Senior AFSCME staff member. With over 15 years at OHSU and experience on every bargaining team in that time, Kate provides us with invaluable insight and continuity that strengthen our efforts immensely.
All this work—by you, your coworkers, your families, and your union—is in service of building a better quality of work life at OHSU. It’s a collective effort, and it matters.
Wishing you rest, reflection, and pride this Labor Day.
In solidarity,
Jennie Olson - President Local 328 & Chief Negotiator AFSCME Bargaining Team
and the AFSCME Local 328 Bargaining Team:
Jenn Roemer - bargaining leadership team member
Jesse Miller - bargaining leadership team member
Becca Walcher
David Casey
David Lee
Dinah Gilbert
Eric Buzzard
Jaclyn Brunette-Foruria
Juan Chavez Jr.
Kathy Le
Roxana Logsdon
Sarah Curtis
Tabatha Millican
Kate Baker - AFSCME Staff Member
Mike Burlingham - AFSCME Staff Member