Date: Friday, Sept. 18, 2026
Subject: SEIU Issues 10-Day Notice for Strike
Dear Portland State Colleagues,
I am writing to let you know that the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) has authorized a strike that could begin on Monday, September 28, the first day of fall term, if an agreement is not reached before then. The union represents more than 4,000 employees who work at Oregon’s seven public universities, including Portland State.
This does not mean that a strike is inevitable. Negotiations are continuing and I am hopeful that an agreement can be reached in the coming days.
While we expect classes to continue as scheduled, some university services and operations may be affected if a strike occurs. Our SEIU-represented colleagues perform a variety of jobs, including administrative work, accounting, skilled trades, maintenance, custodial, groundskeeping, dining services and information technology. Their work is essential to the daily operations of the university and to the experience of our students, faculty and staff.
Please visit the Strike Information webpage for answers to common questions.
PSU values the wide-ranging contributions from our SEIU colleagues and remains committed to good-faith bargaining to reach a fair, sustainable agreement.
If a strike appears likely to occur, I will share additional information about potential impacts to university services and operations next week.
Sincerely,
Ann Cudd
PSU President