The University of Victoria Educational Workers’ Union (CUPE, Local 4163) represents more than 1500 members. Together, CUPE 4163 members perform more than two thirds of the instruction at the University of Victoria.
The local is made up of three components with separate Collective Agreement language :
Component One: Teaching Assistants, Lab Instructors, Help Desk workers, and Academic Assistants
Component Two: Second Language Instructors in the English Language Centre and French Language Programme, Residence Life student workers, and Cultural Assistants
Component Three: Continuing and Term Sessional Lecturers, and Music Performance Instructors
The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) is a decentralized union, respecting the principle of “local autonomy.” This means that it’s possible for members to maintain democratic control over their Local, while drawing on the financial, legal, and bargaining strength of a national union. Simply put, the union is us – its members.
You can get involved by attending meetings, joining a committee, volunteering as a steward or executive member, or by simply providing feedback.
The Executive oversees union business between general membership meetings (e.g., education, grievance reports, financial business, political action, etc.).
In addition to the President, Treasurer, Equity Vice-President and Recording Officer, there are 3 Vice-Presidents, 3 Communications Reps, and 3 Members-At-Large. The President, Secretary-Treasurer, Equity Vice-President, & Recording Secretary of the local are elected by the entire membership, and the Vice-Presidents, Communications Secretaries, and Members-At-Large are elected by the component caucuses.
For more information on how the executive works, see the Executive page: https://4163.cupe.ca/about-us/4163-executive/
CUPE 4163 employs a Member Advocate who takes care of the Local’s Labour Relations work as well as its day to day business.
The President is a full time position, and also takes care of the Local’s Labour Relations work and day to day business.
email: office4163@gmail.com
Our Member Advocate is Melissa Pritchard.
Melissa came to CUPE 4163 with several years of experience as Unit President of the United Steelworkers, Local 2009.
email Melissa: office4163@gmail.com
Offices: Health and Wellness Building (HWB), Rooms 244 and 246
Phone: President: 250 472-4778 Melissa: 250-853-3863
CUPE 4163 staff belong to union BC Union Workers’ Union, Local 467.