Remote work axed, workers horrified

University of Texas Ends Remote Work for Most Staff, Angering Union Members

The University of Texas is ending remote work for most staff in August, with President Jay Hartzell citing the need for a "vibrant campus community" and emphasizing the importance of in-person collaboration and service.

“Staff members can most effectively serve our students, faculty, fellow staff members, and other stakeholders when working together in an environment that fosters collaboration, innovation, availability, and reliability... Our vibrant campus community helps distinguish our great University, and as members of our staff, you contribute to that vibrancy each day. – Jay Hartzell, University of Texas President

In an email on Wednesday, Hartzell directed campus leaders to develop a plan for the transition by July, with full implementation one week before the fall semester. Anne Lewis, a UT faculty member and union leader, called the decision "horrifying," citing economic concerns and the needs of employees who require flexible work arrangements.

"It is a very serious economic matter for a great many of our staff, but the only real issue is, what about these populations that really do need to work virtually? – Anne Lewis, UT Faculty Member and Union Leader

While UT spokesperson Mike Rosen assured that the university would accommodate disabilities and other special considerations, Lewis worries that the decision may lead to staff quitting and that remote work approvals may be inconsistent. Some staff currently earn $15/hour, significantly below the living wage of $20.80/hour in Austin as of October 2023. The recent decision comes on the heels of a $10,000 across-the-board pay raise request by the Texas State Employees Union, which has gone unanswered.

"We have provided clear guidelines for implementation while recognizing that local leaders are in the best position to make decisions in specific cases... We are continuing to review... and are confident that we will still be able to attract and retain the highest-level talent." – Mike Rosen, UT Spokesperson

As companies and institutions navigate the post-pandemic workplace, the University of Texas's decision highlights ongoing debates around remote work, employee empowerment, and living wages.