July Updates
Layoffs
On June 24, President Johnson gave an interview with CBC, indicating that further layoffs are likely. This was understandably concerning for many of you – one long-serving member reached out and asked, “Why are we learning about layoffs from the news instead of directly from the SFU President?”. During APSA’s semesterly meeting with senior SFU leadership this week, I asked this exact question to the President, who acknowledged that communication could be improved and suggested the possibility of hosting an SFU staff-only town hall in the future.
We also requested a freeze on layoffs or, at a minimum, a clear timeline for layoff decisions to offer some relief from the ongoing precarity many of you have faced for nearly two years. Regrettably, the University would not commit to this, citing ongoing unit-level evaluations and the uncertain climate in the post-secondary sector. They also confirmed that they do not have a definitive number for further job losses nor a clear timeline for when the layoffs will conclude.
Since our last newsletter, seven additional APSA members have been laid off, and we have been notified of further layoffs that will be taking place over the next few weeks.
Academic Plan
We also raised the draft academic plan for 2025-30 during this week’s meeting with senior leadership, specifically questioning the arbitrary commitment to increase continuing faculty by 5%, despite projected declines in enrolment and ongoing staff layoffs, which we’ve been told are unavoidable due to reductions in international student numbers.
It was also disappointing that APSA has not been consulted with directly on this matter, particularly given previous statements affirming that staff are integral to the academic mission. Each new faculty hire is, of course, welcomed, but naturally increases the need for additional staff support, making our involvement in these discussions important.
Though no specific answers could be given, we have been told we can arrange a meeting with those involved in the development of the plan to further discuss our concerns and ensure APSA’s input is considered.
Whilst the creation of jobs is always welcome at SFU, the justification in this case feels inconsistent. We will continue to keep you informed and share any clarity we receive on the matter.
Salary & Benefits Committee (S&BC) and Bargaining 2025
The Salary & Benefits Committee has selected its chair for this cycle, and we’re pleased to announce that Ellen Yap will chair the committee. Ellen is a current Board member and a veteran of all things salary and benefits, having served on our successful negotiation team during the last cycle.
We also welcome back David Harvey as our expert consultant. David has supported APSA for many years, including during our Basic Agreement negotiations and as a member of the Joint University Affairs Committee.
Bargaining dates have yet to be confirmed, but we will keep you informed as soon as they are agreed. In the meantime, the bargaining survey has been circulated — your feedback is essential to ensure that the priorities we bring to the table reflect what matters most to you.
AGM Motion to Investigate Unionisation
As directed by the membership at the 2024 AGM, the Board has begun investigating the pros, cons and viability of APSA pursuing labour board certification. Further internal discussions and consultation with legal counsel are scheduled, and I anticipate we will be able to communicate any decisions on next steps, if applicable, before the August newsletter.
Harbour Centre Campus (HCC) Space Consolidation
As shared last month, the University has initiated the process of relinquishing and reconfiguring space at the Harbour Centre Campus. During this week’s meeting with President Johnson, we conveyed staff feedback and concerns – particularly around some of the messaging at the campus town hall.
We emphasised the value of hybrid work in supporting APSA members as modern professionals. Trusting employees to manage their work flexibly not only strengthens morale, belonging and productivity but also contributes to addressing campus space challenges and supports cost-saving efforts.
SFU acknowledged the feedback and committed to reflecting on future communications. If you have thoughts or concerns regarding your workspace or hybrid work arrangements, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We remain committed to monitoring the situation and advocating on your behalf.
Finances Update
The Board has approved a prudent budget for FY26 with no increase to member dues, reflecting our continued commitment to fiscal responsibility and delivering value to members. Many thanks to Secretary-Treasurer Patrick McClarty and Executive Director Andrew Boden for their work on this.
To help reduce staff workload and support a stronger focus on core priorities, we are transitioning our bookkeeping to an external service provider. In addition, a new Finance Committee membership has been established to oversee APSA’s financial affairs and provide recommendations to the Board.
Strategic Plan 2025-30 Update
Vice-President Stephanie Stewart and former Secretary-Treasurer and current Board member Jasper Stoodley are leading the development of APSA’s new strategic plan for 2025–30. Recent work has focused on drafting a scope of work for Board approval, researching consultant procurement options and identifying volunteers to join the working group.
Member input will be essential in shaping this plan, and we look forward to engaging with you in the months ahead as we chart APSA’s direction for the next five years.
Joint Compensation Review Committee (JCRC)
There is no new update since the June newsletter. As shared on June 5, APSA sought an opportunity to present directly to the SFU Board of Governors regarding the ongoing JCRC impasse and our concerns about unmet obligations. Unfortunately, this request was denied. We will continue to explore alternative avenues for recourse. For historical context, please see here.
If you have any comments or suggestions for the Board, or if you're interested in learning more about what volunteering with APSA involves, feel free to reach out to me directly at president@apsacentral.ca.
Cheers,
Ben