Question

Dear Deans,

I am a physical sciences graduate student. I don’t support the formation of the union. 

My question is:

Does not voting affect the process the same as voting against?

Best,

Curious Graduate Student

Response 

Dear Curious Graduate Student,

Thank you for your Ask a Dean question. It is very important for every eligible voter to cast a ballot in the union representation election. The outcome of the election will be determined by a simple majority of the ballots cast. 

Votes matter. A decision not to vote is a decision with consequences.

In the recent election at Loyola University Chicago, for example, only 120 out of 210 eligible graduate assistants voted, with 71 voting for the union and 49 voting against it; only 34% of eligible students determined the outcome of the vote, but the voting outcome is binding on all students – currently and into the future.

Not casting a ballot is not the same as voting “no” (or voting “yes”) – we encourage all eligible voters to exercise their right and responsibility to cast a ballot on election day.

Warm regards,

Barb

Barbara A. Knuth
Senior Vice Provost and Dean of the Graduate School