College Faculty Gain First Union Contract

Saturday, April 16, 2022 at 11:21 AM

The San Juan College Education Association says its new contract seeks fair disciplinary and transparent lay-off procedures, earlier notifications of non-renewal of contracts, an additional 0.5% increase in salary as well as other changes.

April 15, 2022

San Juan College Faculty are now represented by their first-ever collective bargaining agreement. The San Juan College Education Association was formed in December 2019. Since then, the union has spent the past several months negotiating with the College administration, but those talks led to an impasse. This year, the union presented its case before a federal arbitrator who ultimately ruled in favor of the faculty's proposal in March.

San Juan College Education Association President and Math Professor Gerald Williams said, “I along with my colleagues are deeply committed to the mission of SJC and our students’ learning. We believe the arbitrator’s decision will allow faculty and staff to better fulfill this mission and strengthen our community.”

The Education Association says this agreement lays important groundwork for future negotiations with the college administration.

San Juan College President Dr. Toni Hopper Pendergrass said in a statement, "We remain fully committed to achieving San Juan College’s mission, vision, and strategic directions for our students and community.”

More from Local News

San Juan Co. to NM: Find Out Why Local Gas Prices Are High

The New Mexico Department of Justice has investigated fuel prices in San Juan County under prior Attorneys General. Investigations were inconclusive, but there was relief at the pump for a brief period. “We just want to be assured that San Juan County is paying what’s fair at the pump,” said Commissioner Lanier. “With limited competition between brands, it is worth checking out.”
Suspect Sought in July 4th Fatal Shooting

Deputies responded to reports of a shooting and located 18-year-old Elihue Vialpando, who had sustained fatal gunshot wounds. A second victim, Jack Chavez, suffered a gunshot wound to his leg and was transported to San Juan Regional Medical Center for treatment. Witness statements revealed Vialpando brandished a pistol and fired rounds earlier in the night, but based on the timeline of events and witness statements, did not support actions by Thomas Vigil.
Authorities Search for DWI Treatment Center Escapee

The suspect escaped during Sunday afternoon church services. He asked to go to the bathroom and never returned, immediately initiating a count and search of the facility. This is the first escape in the 31-year history of the jail-based treatment center.
Farmington Man Sentenced on Child Porn Conviction

Earlier this week, Jacob Marriott was sentenced after pleading guilty to 4 counts of Manufacturing of Child Pornography (2nd Degree Felony), 1 count of Possession of Child Pornography (4th Degree Felony), and 2 counts of Voyeurism of a Child Under 18 (3rd Degree Felony).
Colorado Business Expands in Farmington

NM-backed expansion expected to generate more than $22 million economic impact
2026 NM Primary Local (Unofficial) Results

We'll be updating this page with results throughout the evening on Tuesday, June 2, 2026: These are the unofficial results of the contested NM Primary races in San Juan County on June 2, 2026: