A Note to all Students in Residences

The following message was sent out to all students who reside in BU residences on Thursday, April 11, from Dean Campbell-Foster.

Dear Residential Students:

The Residence Life Union representing our 295 Resident Assistants (RAs), Graduate Resident Assistants (GRAs) and Graduate Housing Assistants (GHAs) has voted in favor of authorizing a strike, and we have been informed that it will last from April 12 to 15, 2024.

Striking is a fundamental right afforded to employees.  We respect their choice to cease duties as we negotiate their first labor contract since unionizing in 2023. Equally as important as respecting their right to strike is our commitment to ensuring that you continue to have access to support and services in a safe environment. You will notice several service adjustments during the strike period:

• Residence Life offices will continue to be open M-F 9am- 5pm during regular business hours. Professional residence life staff will respond to calls for assistance during the evening, weekend, and overnight hours. This may result in longer wait times for services such as lock-outs while we prioritize more urgent matters. Please make an extra effort to remember your Terrier card and keys.
• During normal business hours, residents will still be able to check out vacuums, yellow carts, and keys to music rooms. These services may not be available after hours.
• Residence Life hall/area offices will be closed from 7-10 pm due to lack of coverage. Professional staff will be available via the on-call schedules that are posted throughout the residences.
• Your RA may redirect you to the professional staff for issues they previously assisted you with.

The strike does not impact services offered by the security assistants or the Boston University Police Department. All emergencies should continue to be directed to 617-353-2121. Facilities-related issues can be directed to 617-353-2105. Turn over your Terrier Card to find other important numbers where you can find support.

GRAs, GHAs and RAs have the right to work during the strike. Some will choose to be available to you as they always have been, while others will not. For information on where to turn for assistance, visit your hall or area residence life office for more information.

We are committed to fair, transparent, and respectful bargaining sessions that benefit both the university and our RAs. If you are interested in the status of the union negotiations, including the proposals that we have offered for their consideration, please visit this website.

Like you, our student employees are an important part of our residential community. Our attention remains on providing all of you with an exceptional living experience. Thank you for your patience while we navigate the strike period.

Take care,

Jason Campbell-Foster, EdD
Dean of Students