The graduate student workers union at Johns Hopkins University has reached a tentative agreement with the university. The union, known as Teachers and Researchers United (TRU), consists of Ph.D. students who are involved in teaching or research alongside their studies. The agreement includes a minimum stipend of $47,000, guaranteed stipends for four out of five years of a degree program, and provisions for up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave. The members of TRU will vote on ratifying the contract in the coming month.
Andrew Eneim, a fifth-year Ph.D. student and TRU member, expressed relief at reaching this milestone after four years of organizing efforts. If approved, TRU members would be among the highest-paid graduate workers in the country relative to the cost of living. The agreement aims to address disparities in stipend amounts among graduate workers, ensuring fair compensation for teaching and research roles.
The agreement also covers various aspects such as funding guarantees for teaching and research positions, closing the wage gap between the lowest- and highest-paid workers, and eliminating previous tiered payment structures at the university. Additionally, the agreement outlines provisions for health insurance coverage, subsidies for dependent children, and support for international students.
TRU’s agreement incorporates several key elements, including the right to peaceful protest, access to free local transit passes, timely resolution of harassment complaints, and fair disciplinary procedures. It emphasizes progressive discipline over law enforcement in cases of mental health crises and substance abuse issues, reflecting a comprehensive approach to student welfare and rights.