GEOC seeking fairer compensation, health and safety improvements
The Graduate Employees Organizing Committee (GEOC) has initiated negotiations to replace its existing collective bargaining agreement with Wayne State University, which is set to expire in August 2025.
GEOC, a local of the American Federation of Teachers, represents over 400 PhD and master’s degree students who are employed by the university. Union members are seeking wage increases, employment protection, and maintenance for derelict labs and offices.
The negotiations come after several years of inflationary pressures which have driven up the cost of living for graduate employees already surviving on low wages. Many graduate workers are paid as little as $21,627 per year.
At a January 2025 event highlighting the extensive labor contributions of graduate employees, bargaining committee member Alex Camarata (PhD, psychology) spoke about his experiences living with multiple roommates and applying for government food assistance programs to afford the cost of living.
“There are some weeks I have to decide between buying all of my groceries or buying some of my groceries so I can fill up my gas tank to go see my loved ones,” said Camarata.
LINK: Watch the speech by Alex Camarata on YouTube
In addition to financial pressures, Camarata spoke about the emotional toll the low compensation has had on his mental health. “The unnecessary stress brought about by our low wage—I’ll be honest—has hurt my self-esteem sometimes, it’s made me question why I’m even here in the first place.”
Numerous graduate employees recounted similar experiences and reported visiting food banks, such as The W Food Pantry on campus, for basic necessities.
LINK: Images from GEOC’s January rally.
According to data published by the Wayne Academic Union, Wayne State’s spending on administrative salaries rose by $16.8 million from 2021-2023. As of November 2024, the University was employing 31 non-academic vice presidents at a total cost of $8.1 million—not including the president’s compensation of $875,100.
Despite differences in funding priorities, GEOC is confident it can build consensus with the administration to craft a more equitable contract for both its members and the University.
GEOC’s member-led Bargaining Committee will meet with University administrators at Wayne State’s Faculty Administration Building every Friday to address the needs of graduate employees and reaffirm their role in the University’s long-term sustainability.
Students, staff, community members, and members of fellow Michigan labor unions can sign a letter of support for the GEOC here.
About GEOC
The Graduate Employees Organizing Committee has been fighting for the rights of graduate employees at Wayne State University since 1998. Through collective bargaining, dispute resolution, and advocacy, we work to iteratively improve the working conditions for the 400+ emerging scholars we represent. A member-led organization, GEOC builds grassroots collective power to challenge exploitation and improve the quality of life for working people.
First published as a press release, March 3rd, 2025.
Contact: Rob Swetlic, Communications Chair, geocwsu@gmail.com
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