March 5, 2026
To:
Jamie Bruno, Ontario Tech Board of Governors Vice Chair People and Culture;
Frank Carnevale, Chair of Ontario Tech’s Governance, Nominations and Human Resources Committee;
Gaurav Singh, Vice Chair of Ontario Tech’s Governance, Nominations and Human Resources Committee;
Steven Murphy, Ontario Tech President;
Laura Elliot, Ontario Tech Board of Governors Chair;
RE: In support of a fair deal for UOITFA
Dear Members of the Board of Governors,
I write in strong support of the University of the UOITFA in their current bargaining efforts.
In addition to my role with the local, I am an alumnus of the University. I have been part of
the Ontario Tech community since it opened its doors in 2003—studying, teaching, recruiting,
volunteering, and serving as a public-facing representative for over two decades. Having invested
so deeply in this institution, it matters greatly to me that the University continues to prioritize
its core educational and research mission.
I know the Board has received many letters highlighting that faculty members deserve secure
retirement options, proper benefits, and full redress following the repeal of Bill 124. I echo those
points. However, I want to stress that a fair agreement with UOITFA is not only about fairness
for faculty—it is essential to realizing Dr. Gary Polonsky’s inspiring vision of Ontario Tech as
a leading northern institution for technology-focused education and research. Undervaluing or
under-supporting faculty undermines our ability to attract and retain the talented educators and
researchers needed to achieve and sustain that vision.
The University’s public communications around bargaining have raised concerns about tone
and transparency. These can affect the institution’s reputation in the academic community and
beyond. A constructive approach at the table—and in public updates—would better reflect the
collaborative spirit that has defined Ontario Tech’s success.
I urge the Board to direct its team toward an agreement that restores fair compensation post-
Bill 124, strengthens retirement security, and invests in workload conditions that allow faculty
to deliver the innovative teaching and research Ontario Tech was founded to provide.
Regards,
Dr. Timothy A.V. Teatro
President, PSAC DCL 555