~ During the latest Council meeting, a resolution was adopted in support of the Professors of the Practice (PoPs) at Tufts University's School of the Museum of Fine Arts (SMFA). The Council recognized the crucial role these full-time professors and practicing artists play in maintaining the academic excellence of SMFA and contributing to Boston's thriving arts community.

Council members expressed concern over the ongoing contract negotiations between faculty and university leadership. According to reports from faculty, progress has been slow and there has been a lack of meaningful engagement from the university. This has raised concerns among councilors, especially considering that SMFA student enrollment has nearly tripled in recent years while the number of full-time PoPs has decreased from 40 to 30. This has resulted in increased workloads for faculty.

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The faculty is seeking improved compensation, including a 4% cost-of-living increase and equitable salary minimums. However, they have reported that Tufts University has only offered a 2.75% increase. The resolution also highlights additional challenges faced by BIPOC and international faculty, such as unequal treatment and inconsistent visa support.

By passing this resolution, the Council is showing its support for workers' right to organize and is calling on Tufts University to negotiate in good faith. It also urges the university to invest in its faculty in line with its stated values of equity, inclusion, and academic excellence. The Council's decision serves as a reminder that fair treatment and compensation for all employees are essential for creating a thriving academic community.

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