Citing pandemic-related pressures, St. Xavier University cuts ties with faculty union

St. Xavier University in Chicago announced last month that it would no longer recognize the union that had represented its faculty members, effective immediately. Laurie Joyner, president of St. Xavier, cited stalled, years-long contract negotiations; pandemic-related financial pressures; and the need to be “nimble and responsive” to external changes like declining enrollment as reasons for breaking ties with the union. “The effects of the current moment magnify an ongoing fracture...