YSU BOT holds special meeting

During a special meeting of the Youngstown State University Board of Trustees, Friday, August 18, a new three-year contract with the university’s faculty union was unanimously approved and a resolution was passed to rename One University Plaza to One Tressel Way.

The union and university administration reached the tentative agreement at the end of July and the union overwhelmingly ratified the contract earlier this month.

“We thank both negotiating teams for their hard work and commitment,” said Michael Peterson, board chair. “Our collective dedication to the success of our students is what makes YSU an institution of opportunity.”

The union’s current three-year contract was set to expire on August 27.

“To reach an agreement before the start of the academic year is a tremendous accomplishment,” stated YSU Interim President Helen K. Lafferty. “Such an outcome assures our collective focus is on the success of our students and supporting our faculty to create an enriching learning experience."

The agreement includes 2 percent pay raises and $1,000 cash bonuses in both the first and second year and a 2.5 percent raise in the third year. Contributions to health insurance premiums will stay the same for the first year of the contract and increase 1 percent each in the second and third year. Minimum base pay for assistant professors, lecturers and senior lecturers will see an increase of 4 percent.

The Board also unanimously voted on a resolution to rename One University Plaza to One Tressel Way. This resolution, and change of the University’s address, intends to honor both President Emeritus Jim Tressel and former First Lady Ellen Tressel for all of their accomplishments and extreme dedication while at YSU.

“This street renaming reminds us of the impact the Tressels had on our community and the university,” said Peterson. “Both Jim and Ellen were influential ambassadors representing YSU and the region successfully on the state, national and world stages.”

Jim Tressel was President of Youngstown State University until February 2023 and remains involved with YSU serving as the Special Assistant to the BOT for Philanthropy and Engagement. Both Jim and Ellen are committed to the success of YSU through their generosity and continued involvement.

“As students, alumni and community members arrive at YSU, on Tressel Way, they too will be reminded of the Tressel’s dedication and our forever appreciation,” stated Peterson.

The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Trustees will be held Wednesday, September 20, 2023.