The classes at Ferris State University wore a deserted look on Monday, as dozens of its faculty members participated in a strike bringing class work on the first day of fall semester to a grinding halt.
The tenured faculty members took to a picket line after a round of negotiations failed with the university officials on Sunday. Ferris Faculty Association has been demanding new contracts bargaining over the length of the contract, health insurance and a hike in compensation.
Terming the strike unlawful under the state law to strike, the university said that it will continue to negotiate with the faculty association.
“The Ferris State University administration and Ferris Faculty Association were unable to reach an agreement on a new contract as of Sunday, Aug. 26. Despite the fact that University employees are forbidden by state law to strike, on Saturday, Aug. 25, FFA members voted to authorize a strike,” reads the university statement.
“The University plans to continue negotiations with the FFA and to serve the best interests of students as this process continues.”
The university approached Mecosta County Circuit Court to issue a restraining order. The court took the cognizance of the faculty strike and ordered all the faculty members to report back at work on Tuesday.
“We will fully comply with the order and go back to work,” Charles Bacon, president of the Ferris faculty association said.
“In the meantime, we hope that the administration is willing to bargain with us,” he added.
The faculty association has now agreed to return on the negotiation table to bargain with the administration.
