News

Book Notes | ‘The Mystery of Mrs. Christie’ by Marie Benedict

'The Mystery of Mrs. Christie' by Marie Benedict is based on English novelist Agatha Christie’s true-life, 11-day disappearance in 1926. The book is divided into two parts, with one part narrated by Agatha and the other by her husband at the time, Archie Christie. The mystery grows as each of them tells the story from their very different perspectives. More...

Reimagining the University in tough times

Declining government funding, inflation, loss of purchasing power, low birthrates, and lack of trust in the nation’s institutions have combined to create a confidence crisis in higher education not seen for decades. Minnesota is no exception.

URVC helps the University to 'Elevate Extraordinary'

Since its inception 40 years ago, the University Retirees Volunteer Center has focused on identifying where help is needed within the University community and has provided opportunities for thousands of retirees to use their skills, experience, and interests to help address those needs. 

HELLO, my name is Nancy Carpenter

Meet UMRA member Nancy Carpenter. She grew up in the American heartland; nevertheless, she was surprised by the frigid, snow-covered landscape when she visited Minnesota for the first tine to interview for a job teaching chemistry at UMN Morris.

December 31 is the deadline for 2027 retiree grants

UMRA’s Professional Development Grants for Retirees are intended to support projects related to University of Minnesota retirees' research, instructional or work history, or new scholarly interests that contribute to the academic reputation of the University.

FIRST PERSON | Automated vehicles and the human touch

After working decades in communications for the U’s Center for Transportation Studies, Pam Snople perks up whenever she sees transportation news. It’s usually the salacious stuff that makes the headlines. But, behind the scenes, vehicle automation research keeps rolling along — including key work by UMN researchers. 

Wokiksuye for Renée Good

Renée Good was killed in Minneapolis on January 7, 2026, during Operation Metro Surge. One month later, a community memorial to mourn her death and celebrate her life was held. Susan Ranney attended the ceremony and wrote an evocative essay on the service, which was published recently in UMRA’s Journal of Opinions, Ideas & Essays.

A tribute to Alan Kagan

Professor Emeritus Alan Kagan has played many roles in his nearly 30 years of service with the University Retirees Volunteer Center. From assisting with phone calls to becoming office manager and eventually serving on and chairing the Volunteer Center’s board, Kagan helped build the organization into the robust operation it is today.

Recruiting UMRA officer and board nominations for 2027

We’re already getting organized to identify and recruit members to step into leadership roles in 2027. As a well-informed and engaged UMRA member, you are invited to play a role in the process. 

Do it for the team

I’ve been an UMRA member for more than a decade and each year I’m impressed anew by the energy and dedication of the volunteers who do the work of the organization. I invite you to join in their efforts. But if that’s not possible, there’s something else you can do to help support UMRA: Renew your membership.

Zip code coffee

You don’t have to go far, and you don’t have to drink coffee. It’s the conversation that matters. It’s a new, experimental effort being organized by the wizards of UMRA; a meet-up of members who live in the same zip code. 

Help share the warmth

UMRA will be collecting hats, mittens, and scarves at our November 17 Luncheon Forum to help keep Minnesota kids warm this winter.

Financial life in retirement

See presentation recording and slides below with topics on:

• Longevity
• Distributions
• Long Term Care
• Social Security
• Comprehensive planning

Iceland—architecture, culture, and geology

The architecture in Iceland is as spare as the culture -- honest and simple. See the recorded presentation. More...

Who benefits from tourism, and who bears its costs?

Travel opens doors to new cultures, experiences, and perspectives, but it also raises important ethical questions. Who has the freedom to travel? Who benefits from tourism, and who bears its costs? How can we reconcile our desire to explore the world with growing concerns about inequality, climate change, and environmental sustainability? More...