'When We Fight, We Win': Northwestern Service Workers Get New Contract

EVANSTON, IL — After a historic 12-day strike, hospitality and food service workers at Northwestern University ratified their new contract with Compass Group Friday.

According to the union representing the workers, Unite Here Local 1, the employees and Compass Group began contract negotiations in fall 2024 in hopes to obtain a fair contract with sustainable wages and increased pension contributions. The new collective bargaining agreement was put in place on May 16.

“Northwestern is pleased to hear of the agreement,” said Luke Figora, Northwestern’s Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “The food service associates at the University play an important role in the day-to-day life of our students, staff and faculty. We understand that the process to reach a deal has been a long one and we are grateful to both Compass and Unite Here Local 1 for their work to reach this agreement.”

The new contract for hospitality and food service workers at Northwestern University includes:

• A $4 raise by Sept. 1, making the new minimum pay $25.68 per hour;
• A total of $8 per hour in raises over the life of the contract;
• A 250 percent increase in employer pension contributions;
• Job protections for former Allen Center workers.

"Thank you to all the students and community leaders for their support throughout the fight. Congratulations, Compass Northwestern workers - when we fight, we win," Unite Here Local 1 said.