Colleauges,
As we prepare for the relocation of the UUP office, we are temporarily shifting our priorities to ensure a smooth physical move. At this time, we anticipate relocating to the South Campus in Diefendorf Hall. However, the exact office assignment and move‑in date have not yet been finalized. To begin the transition, we have secured a storage facility for our materials and will operate as a virtual office starting April 15th until our new space is ready.
This move away from the Commons is a necessary and fiscally responsible decision. Currently, 50% of our budget is spent on rent for a building expected to be torn down within six years. Rather than passing this financial challenge on to a future administration, the Officers and Board agreed that now is the right time to act.
Finally, we will be pausing the Monday Morning Post until mid‑May. A team is already working on a refreshed format — one that will be easier for us to manage and, more importantly, easier for you to read. We look forward to resuming communication once we are settled.
Many calls we receive often need to be directed to resources elsewhere. To bypass the middle person, here are list of common issues that we refer to UUP Central, UB Human Resources in Townsend, or elsewhere.
- UUP Buffalo Center Office phone number WILL NOT change. Although we’ve cut the physical line, our office phone will remain at 716-276-3377. Please leave a message if we do not answer. Our email will remain at buffalocenter@uupmail.org
- UUP has put a list of Important numbers together you should look at (including Dental and Vision) – 1-800-887-3863 or email at benefits@uupmail.org
- Central HR handles a variety of topics for our members including the list below. 716-645-7777
– ADA Accommodations (Your medical information is protected by HIPPA and should only be discussed with Central HR).
– Health Insurance Benefits
– Leave
– Payroll questions (e.g. Raises, Longevity Pay, DSI)
– Retirement issues
– Requesting to see your personnel file
(your official files are kept in HR)
– Updating your mailing address
(we get our list from the University). - Discrimination and harassment – Equity, Diversity and Inclusion 716-645-2266
- Mental Wellness – Employee Assistance Program 716-645-4461
- Issues going on at work
– Professionals – Kate Doran, Grievance Officer for Professionals
– Academics – Melinda Lemke, Grievance Officer for Academics (Until May 21, 2026). If you wish to step up and be the next Academic Grievance Officer, let’s talk!!!
– Jen Rhee – Labor Relations Representative (if there are conflicts of interest with the Grievance Officers)
– Kat Kielar – President
Thank you for your understanding and continued support during this period of transition.
Best,
Kathleen Kielar
Chapter President
UUP Buffalo Center