Stand with Chris Evans: Adjunct Faculty in Need

Hello Faculty at Siena,

I hope this message finds you well. I am currently an adjunct instructor at Siena College, now entering my third year, and I also teach at SUNY Cobleskill. During this time, I have relied on unemployment services over the summer to support my family. This is essential due to the nature of adjunct contracts, which often involve being essentially laid off and rehired to avoid paying full-time salaries and benefits.

According to federal guidelines and our union representative, adjunct faculty who are not employed over the summer term are eligible for unemployment services, which I have come to depend on. However, Siena College has decided to contest my unemployment claim, contrary to federal guidelines and union guidance, resulting in my benefits being withheld while I await an appeals hearing. This weekly amount, though modest, is crucial for my family's well-being. Even if I win the appeal, I will not receive any back pay.

As I await my appeals hearing (with no date provided yet), I find myself in extremely dire circumstances. To make ends meet, I have resorted to donating plasma for an extra $50 for groceries. With no other options left, I am reaching out to the Siena community for support.

I have created a GoFundMe campaign with a goal of $2,500, aiming to recover the lost income that my family and I depend on. Any assistance, no matter how small, would provide us with the security we need and are legally entitled to.

Your time and generosity are greatly appreciated.

Warm regards,

Chris Evans