The Vermont State Colleges Board of Trustees took a significant step forward during their special meeting on September 26, 2025, by ratifying a new contract for part-time faculty. This decision comes after the executive committee approved the contract on August 5, but due to a recent change in open meeting laws, the board needed to formally confirm the action to ensure compliance.

Trustee Dickinson explained that the executive committee's decision lacked a physical meeting location, which is now required by law. Although there were no complaints regarding this oversight, the board opted for a precautionary measure to ratify the contract officially. The motion was supported by Trustee Silverman and seconded by Trustee Zeller, with no further questions raised before the vote.

The new contract includes a retroactive pay increase of 3.5% for the previous year, as well as a 2% increase for the current year and a projected 2.5% increase for the following year. This contract reflects a productive negotiation process that involved multiple meetings and was well-received by the part-time faculty unit.

The board's actions not only ensure compliance with legal requirements but also demonstrate a commitment to supporting faculty compensation and addressing their needs. This ratification marks a positive development for the Vermont State Colleges community, reinforcing the institution's dedication to its educators.