News & Events Archives

Optimism for the U of M

As we embark on a new year, we want to express our optimism about the prospects and future of the University of Minnesota. 

This commentary was submitted to MinnPost and published in the Community Voices section of the online newspaper on January 22, 2020.

Book notes: Stories of adversity and perseverance

Important notice from OHR on 2020 changes to faculty retirement plan

The Office of Human Resources looks forward to working together with UMRA in the new year on the upcoming changes to the faculty retirement plan. If this affects you, please read this important message from OHR's Ken Horstman.

Results | UMRA predictions quiz for 2020

Nearly half of those attending UMRA's December Holiday Party participated in a 10-question predictions quiz. The results ranged from a close call on the stock market to decided optimism about Gophers women's basketball.

HELLO, my name is Gloria Williams

Meet UMRA member and historian Gloria Williams, who rose from her first job as a drugstore “soda jerk” and luncheon waitress in Philadelphia to become an associate professor in the U of M College of Design.

UMRA Board seeks volunteers

The UMRA Board of Directors is seeking three volunteers to serve on the Nominating Committee, which will select candidates for the board and officers for the coming year.

Firsthand | Experiences with aging

Hearing loss affects about one-third of all adults in the U. S. between ages 65 and 74 and more than half over age 75. It is nothing to be embarrassed about. It is normal.

Important notice from UMF regarding year-end giving and IRA checkbooks

Many donors 70 ½ or older support the University of Minnesota, and other charities, by making qualified charitable distributions from their IRA. To qualify, the IRA administrator must make the distribution directly to the charity. Some IRA administrators offer checkbooks that allow donors to write checks to initiate the transfer of funds from the IRA to charity.

Book notes: Sinclair Lewis classic is still interesting, but a slow read

URVC presents 2019 distinguished service awards

Four leaders of the University Retirees Volunteer Center were honored with awards at the Fall 2019 Volunteer Reception held in October.

HELLO, my name is Eric Hockert

Meet UMRA member Eric Hockert, an inventor who is well-versed in engineering and technology but still feels at home when he senses a farm nearby.

PDGR deadline reminder

Still driven to discover? The application deadline for next year's Professional Development Grants for Retirees is December 13.

Firsthand | experiences with aging

Do you often feel cold when others do not? UMRA member Ron Anderson found a way to combat his "cold intolerance" by using mindfulness meditation. 

Book Notes: Quirky characters bring WWII WASPs to life

HELLO, my name is Bev Moe

Meet UMRA member Bev Moe, a retired paralegal who has hiked the 500-mile Camino de Santiago and is still going strong!