Full-time and contract academic staff at Augustana University College voted unanimously to certify in a representation vote conducted this month by the Alberta Labour Relations Board.

"Obviously we're extremely pleased by the count," said AUC Faculty Association president Gerhard Lotz, after the results of the vote were released May 9.

In completing its consideration of Augustana faculty association's application for certification, the ALRB dismissed the employer's objections, including one that "a successful application might have a negative impact on the employer's operations." The board found the objection "highly speculative and based on hearsay."

Lotz said financial pressures have created job security worries for junior faculty, and increased tensions between faculty and administrators.

He said the board of regents rejected a negotiated agreement last year and several distinguished faculty have left for other universities.

"Faculty have had no salary increase, and sabbaticals for next year have been canceled. The administration has also taken a record number of disciplinary actions against individual faculty members," Lotz said.

"Our members opted for a stronger organization to protect their interests and preserve what students and alumni value at Augustana."