Texas A&M University System has released a Request for Proposals to outsource the following services at Texas A&M University: landscaping, custodial services, building maintenance and dining services. The Texas A&M Faculty Senate has already written a letter to show disapproval of potential outsourcing. In addition, the Student Senate has passed a bill that advocates student representation in future discussions on outsourcing.

Now it's time for us to take a stand. 

The proposal to outsource these services implies that Texas A&M is more concerned about finances than its hundreds of employees. There are approximately 700 facilities employees and 200 dining services employees. Each of these people has a story, a family and a connection to Texas A&M University. They are people that deserve to be treated with dignity and respect—they are not expendable.

In addition, the outsourcing of services will likely increase prices and decrease effectiveness of these services. Even if current employees are re-hired by the new companies, morale will be at a severe deficit. Employees will no longer take pride in their work, and they will certainly no longer be proud of Texas A&M University. Although prices for students may temporarily decrease, they are likely to increase over time.

Texas A&M has six C​ore Values​: Excellence, Integrity, Leadership, Loyalty, Respect and Selfless Service. The proposal to outsource these services is clearly in direct opposition to the core values of integrity, loyalty and respect. 

Integrity: The Aggie Honor Code reads, "An Aggie does not lie, cheat or steal, nor tolerate those who do." As Aggies, we expect out leadership to adhere to this same honor code. The current employees should not be cheated out of their hard earned pay raises, retirement packages and benefits.

Loyalty-Acceptance Forever: The staff members at Texas A&M are as much of a part of the Aggie family as any student on campus. They are loyal to the University, yet the University is not remaining loyal to them. 

Respect: Outsourcing almost 1,000 jobs shows a lack of respect for the employees who currently hold those positions, as well as the families of the employees. They are part of the Aggie family, and deserve to be treated with respect.