Trust and fairness are essential components in building strong, positive relationships with union representatives. Although negotiating contracts with faculty and employee unions can be challenging, it's easier and less contentious when the two sides approach the process not as adversaries, but as partners in improving education. Even with strong relationships in place, contract talks between administrators and campus unions can be fraught with challenges. College presidents often feel caught in the middle as they try to balance the needs of employees with the financial health of their institution. This new landscape calls for a different approach to negotiating. With funding for higher education failing to keep pace with inflation in many states, today's college leaders must be creative problem solvers.