The University Staff Association (USA) is the collective bargaining agent under Massachusetts law (Chapter 150E) for classified employees (Clerical, Technical, and Administrative) employed by the University of Massachusetts in the Town of Amherst.

Amherst is the “flagship” campus of the UMass Five Campus Public University System with around the state, and extension offices and research facilities in each county and corner of the Commonwealth. Amherst contains both affiliate campuses in Springfield, and Mt. Ida in Newton. In 2022, the Center for Aviation Training was debuted and is located at Westover Air Force Base in Chicopee, just down the Pike.

USA is a proud partner with the Massachusetts Teachers Association (MTA) locals across the state in ~400 locals representing PreK – Higher Ed’s best and brightest! MTA is ~117,000 members strong and the largest union in Mass. The National Educational Association (NEA) is by far the largest in the nation and represents 3 million Education Support Professionals (ESP’s) from sea to shining sea. 

USA and its fellow MTA locals, Professional Staff Union (PSU) and Mass Society of Professors (MSP) follow a 3-year contract schedule. Together, we formed a coalition with other campus locals known as the UMass Amherst Unions United. Along with the three MTA locals on staff, the UUU coalition includes Grad Students (GEO), the Resident Assistants, Peer Mentors (RAPMU) undergrad peer mentors, and AFSCME essential facilities, auxiliary and service professionals. 

The USA/MTA – NEA charter was established on December 22, 1980. USA is governed by an Executive Committee and General Board of 12 elected members, with a Stewards Council of 12 elected Stewards. There are several standing committees within that structure. General Membership meetings are open to all members in good standing, as is the USA Annual Meeting.