On October 28, 2025, the GSA and ULGA have signed a MOU to clarify roles, strengthen cooperation, and ensure effective representation for all graduate students. The MOU defines how the two organizations will work together while maintaining clear boundaries between the GSA’s governance and advocacy functions and the Union’s authority over collective bargaining and labour relations. The signing took place at the annual AGM with GSA President Jade Oldfield and Vice President Labour Davide Pafumi, representing the two entities. Speaking at the event, Dan Pearson, in his double role of GSA Calgary Campus Representative and ULGA Policy Officer, emphasized the importance of the new agreement:
“The GSA exists to advocate for all graduate students. Alongside it, the ULGA represents those who are academically employed as teaching or research assistants. While both serve the same population, their roles differ slightly. This Memorandum makes those roles clear and ensures that both organizations can support students effectively.
The guiding principle behind this agreement is simple: keep talking to never begin fighting. Open communication prevents escalation, protects trust, and ensures that both organizations remain focused on what matters most — graduate student success.”
The MOU outlines a framework for collaboration, conflict management, and joint advocacy. It sets out five key principles:
- Balanced Representation: Clear governance boundaries with fair participation in joint committees.
- Foundation for Growth: A stable structure for ongoing cooperation, including annual joint events.
- Fair & Transparent Bargaining: Union-led negotiations conducted independently and with integrity.
- Preventing Conflicts: Early resolution through communication and defined procedures.
- Keep Talking, Never Fighting: Ongoing dialogue to sustain solidarity and trust.
The agreement took effect immediately and will guide both organizations in maintaining constructive relations for the benefit of all graduate students at the University of Lethbridge.
ULGA 