Dining hall cooks, bakers, cashiers, and utility staff at Hofstra University in Hempstead, N.Y., represented by Local 1102 RWDSU/UFCW, unanimously ratified a groundbreaking contract recently.
The 120 food service workers at the Nassau County university approved the deal, negotiated with their employer, Campus Dining Services by Compass One.
Highlights of the three-year contract, which covers full- and part-time workers, include:
- Record-breaking wage increases: The highest pay increases ever negotiated for this unit, putting real money back in workers’ pockets to meet rising costs.
- Stronger retirement security: Higher 401(k) contributions so members can build a more stable financial future.
- New reporting pay guarantees: Fair compensation whenever members are scheduled or called in to work.
- Expanded union orientation: Stronger new-hire orientation language, so every future worker learns their union rights and protections on day one.
Jack Caffey, president of Local 1102 RWDSU/UFCW, said the win at Hofstra is a testament to what solidarity can accomplish.
“Strong contracts are never achieved by one person alone. They are the result of teamwork, unity and members standing together to fight for the wages, benefits and working conditions they deserve,” he said. “I’m incredibly proud of our entire team, but especially our rank-and-file negotiating committee members. The victory at Hofstra University demonstrates the power of a united union family, showing that when rank-and-file members stand together, they have the leverage to deliver real, lasting gains for their workplace and community.”