The Wor-Wic Community College board of trustees voted Thursday to ratify the first collective bargaining agreement for the Wor-Wic Community College Faculty Association (WWCCFA), the faculty union that formed in October 2023.
“I’m gratified that we were able to work collaboratively to create this historic agreement,” said Melissa Reddish, WWCCFA president and an associate professor of English at the college. “I feel confident together we can nurture an atmosphere of trust and care for all, an atmosphere necessary to support the dynamic, innovative, student-centered work of the institution.”
Reddish noted that all members participated in the vote, and 94.7% voted in favor of the contract.
“We commend the representatives of WWCCFA and our administration negotiating team for their dedicated and respectful collaboration throughout this process to achieve the college agreement,” said Morgan Hazel, chairperson of the board of trustees.
The newly ratified contract is effective July 10, 2025, through June 30, 2028, and covers a wide range of economic and workplace provisions that reflect the union’s priorities and the college’s commitment to a thriving faculty. The goal of the negotiations was for faculty and administration at Wor-Wic to work together to find interest-based and student-centered solutions concerning faculty working conditions, wages and benefits, while ensuring the long-term viability of the college and its ability to provide high-quality educational opportunities for all students.
“The ratification of our first collective bargaining agreement marks a significant milestone that strengthens our commitment to supporting faculty and enhancing the educational experience for our students. I’m proud of the work both teams have done to reach this milestone, and I look forward to the continued success it will bring to our college community,” said Deborah Casey, Ph.D., president of Wor-Wic.
The new agreement identifies terms for evaluation, reappointment, faculty rights and responsibilities, leave benefits, compensation and association privileges, among other items.
WWCCFA is part of the Maryland State Education Association, which represents 75,000 educators across the state.
From left, Deborah Casey, Ph.D., president of Wor-Wic Community College, Melissa Reddish, WWCCFA president, and Morgan Hazel, chairperson of the Wor-Wic board of trustees, celebrate the signing of a collective bargaining agreement for faculty.
