From the President Archives
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UMRA is strong because members step up to take on significant roles that are essential to the operation and programming of our association. Continuity is also critical to sustaining community because we are, after all, a group of older adults. Please think about how you might participate.
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We are off to a strong start for UMRA’s 2026–27 program year that began with a lovely cruise on Lake Minnetonka in mid-August and, later that month, UMRA’s first leadership retreat since 2020. My goals as I start my term as president are to facilitate the programs we have in place “to learn, serve, and connect,” and to advance the new ideas coming from the retreat and from you.
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As I begin my term as UMRA president, I am grateful to be taking office when UMRA is in a strong fiscal position, has a cadre of dedicated leaders, and is buoyed by the positive response to the successful Big Ten Retirees Association 2026 Conference we hosted in July.
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Over this past year, I’ve recognized and appreciated how UMRA reflects its amazing members, an inspiring community of individuals on their own unique retirement journeys. I found community, inspiration, and collaboration with amazingly talented and generous people. I’m still a bit astonished by the richness of it all.
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As UMRA looks forward to the 50th anniversary of its origin in 1976, the collective wisdom on which we are all standing is humbling. And there continue to be opportunities for each of us to participate in creating our community, as they fit our personal moments in time.
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We never quite know when membership and the participation born from it will matter, will make a difference. But now is that moment. Thank you for joining, for being who you are, and doing what you do.
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What role does UMRA play for you in experiencing fun? Or joy? Perhaps submitting a story, a poem, a drawing, or a photo to JOIE is something for you to consider? The possibilities are endless.
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With the arrival of a bright new year, resolutions come springing to mind. Maybe thoughts of trying something new … renewing friendships … making time for what we imagined doing in retirement. All these possibilities and more offer occasions for connecting and being part of a vibrant retiree community.
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Opportunities to participate in meaningful ways, or to engage in a lead role, or to just have fun abound throughout the UMRA community. Take a look and find something that’s a good fit for you.
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Some of UMRA’s most committed volunteers are the ones who actually volunteered; they didn’t wait to be asked. Some of UMRA’s most popular activities were first a gleam in someone’s eye. If you have an idea that you would like to pilot, I invite you to share what captures your imagination.
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When I retired in 2019, staying connected to my university experience was important. UMRA seemed like the place to start. Now, here I sit, writing this letter as your new president—a privilege and pleasure. THANK YOU!
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All good things come to an end, and my term as president of UMRA is nearly over. It has been a pleasure to serve as your president, and I look forward to continuing to volunteer in various roles.
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The last year has raised intriguing questions about UMRA’s relationship with the University of Minnesota. Some of us questioned whether the University perceived any value in retirees when our access to email, Google workspace, Zoom, and library privileges were cut off. On the other hand, President Rebecca Cunningham asserted the value of UMRA, and expressed gratitude for the contributions of retirees when she spoke at our October 2024 luncheon forum.
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On February 4, I attended a public forum at the Capitol hosted by U of M Alumni Association in early February to present 14 candidates shortlisted for four open seats on the Board of Regents. The candidates ranged from the recent U of M interim president to an impressive array of four graduate students.
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January and February tend to be quieter months for many of us, but I encourage you to find one more way to learn, serve, and connect through UMRA. It will add to your engagement in life.
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