About
MSU Extension has always been a beacon in our communities, but lately, we’ve seen a shift.
The University's policies were starting to feel less about the people of Michigan and more about the bottom line. Our voices, the people who actually live and work in these communities, were getting lost. There were major issues with staff turnover and working conditions and wages that did not reflect our expertise and the value we bring to Michigan communities.
We formed a Union to change that.
With our Union, we can advocate for better conditions, which helps us attract and keep the quality people Michigan's communities deserve.
February 24, 2025: MSU Extension employees voted yes!
In a landmark election, MSU Extension employees voted overwhelmingly to join UNTF (Union of Nontenure-Track Faculty) in two units. This began a rigorous eight month schedule of bargaining our first contracts.
February 23, 2026: Members of Extension United Local 1855 officially ratified their inaugural collective bargaining agreement with Michigan State University. The ratification vote resulted in an overwhelming landslide in favor of the agreement.
The agreement addresses key priorities identified by the membership and provides long-term stability for MSU Extension staff and guarantees the first formal labor protections and standards in the history of MSU Extension.