News & Events Archives

Nominating Committee is at work

By the next Newsletter the Nominating Committee expects to report its recommendations for 2016-17: four Board members, the Secretary, Treasurer, and the President-elect.

Shall we dance?

Have you heard of the Faculty Dancing Club?  Although it was primarily for faculty members at the University of Minnesota, it now is also open to non-faculty members. There is one more dance this spring — on April 30. The typical charge is $80 per couple, which includes dinner. There is a cash bar.

2016-2017 PDGR Awards

A committee of retirees, appointed by Frances Lawrenz, Associate Vice President of Research, reviewed and recommended 11 of 12 applications for Professional Development Grants for Retirees. On March 1, the Office of the Vice President for Research announced the recipients for the 2016-2017 Professional Development Grant for Retirees. 

Parking on campus can be a vexing issue! Why and how to minimize difficulties

Members have reported special parking challenges this year that have thwarted their attempts to attend the winter luncheons. The membership committee has done some research and offers an explanation. Although many of our members are now finding that the Green line light rail also works very well in getting to Coffman, there is a way to park on campus and stay dry and warm in spite of the weather...and that is the Gopher way! Admittedly, the Gopher way is probably not the most direct route to your destination and may require use of stairs and/or elevators to access different levels of some routes, but the signage should help you find your way. 

2016 Nominating Committee invites participation

The Nominating Committee has begun to solicit names for officers and board members for 2016–17. In 2016–17 President Jean Kinsey will become the immediate past president, and the president-elect, Donna Peterson, will automatically become the president of UMRA. A new president elect will be nominated. The secretary and treasurer are elected each year and can be re-elected. There are four vacancies on the Board of Directors, each for a 3-year term.

Research says 'Make walking a social activity'

Do you have a hard time adhering to a daily exercise routine? Consider joining an outdoor walking group. You’ll be less likely to quit and may see a dramatic improvement in your overall health—including cognitive well-being, says a British review.

Do you have friends who are retiring soon?

Be sure to talk to them about joining UMRA. Check with Membership Committee Chair John Anderson, ander049@ umn.edu, if you want an UMRA brochure to show them.

Spring luncheon schedule

Mark your calendars for UMRA’s spring luncheon meetings; plan to attend to hear Lori Sturdevant, Massoud Amin, Peter Moe.

2016 Nominating Committee invites participation

The Nominating Committee is eager to receive suggestions for persons to consider for several important positions. If you are willing to help us fill these needs, we would appreciate hearing from you. If you are interested in serving in one of these roles, we would welcome your contacting one of the Nominating Committee members by e-mail.

Volunteer to Tutor with URVC

One of the most valuable gifts you can deliver is the tutoring so greatly needed by children, teens, and immigrants. The university Retirees Volunteer Center can facilitate your connection with programs for all ages and in all parts of the twin Cities. [email protected]

Exclusive!-a message for women only

It’s not meant to be a secret, but we have learned that many UMRA women do not know about the University of Min­nesota Women’s Club, said Shirley Holt at a recent gather­ing. “It’s time for us to spread the word about the UMWC,” said Van Linck, member of UMWC and an UMRA leader.

This is a dynamic women’s organization, and it is a natural activity for retirees, although membership is open to all ages. 

PDGR awards to be announced in March

The Offie of the Vice President for Research (OVPR) reported that we received 12 applications for the Professional Development Grants for Retirees by the December 15 deadline. Awards will be announced by March 1, 2016. 

Photo Club plans April 26 Workshop

Photo Club members are busy planning to present an April workshop for UMRA members, and they are very interested in any questions you might have about photography. Please send your questions to Sheri Goldsmith May, [email protected], or Craig Swan, [email protected].

Faculty & Staff can keep lifetime email

Retirees, both Faculty and Staff, retain lifetime access to their U of M Google accounts as long as they access them at least once every 3 months.  “Google Account End of Life Policies,” http://it.umn.edu/google-account-end-life-policies, states:  “The retiree will retain lifetime access to the account.”

Members asked to approve Bylaw revisions November 2015

UMRA bylaw revisions will be presented to the members for their approval at the November luncheon meeting.