November 5, 2004—The Oberlin College Office and Professional Employees (OCOPE) union, which represents more than 180 administrative assistants, ratified a new three-year contract yesterday. A tentative agreement had been reached at a joint bargaining session on Friday.

Negotiations on the new contract began in May. The previous contract expired on June 30, 2004, but was extended to July 31.

"It's been a long process, but the negotiating teams for both sides were committed to reaching an agreement both parties can endorse," said Oberlin College Vice President of College Relations Alan Moran. "The College looks forward to working together with the Union in the years ahead."

Oberlin College and the United Auto Workers (UAW), which represents 180 service employees, agreed on a new multi-year contract on September 30.