Thanks to everyone who participated in the 2016 UMRA Member Survey this summer. The survey was designed by the planning committee for the August Board and Committee Chair Retreat. The information helped inform the discussion about UMRA’s future. Thirty-five percent of our membership responded, and participants told us the following key points:

• More than two thirds of our members attend monthly luncheons;  42 percent attend 3 to 8 per year.
• For those who don’t attend luncheons, the reason is often related to distance or access to campus.
• Those who do attend luncheons prefer that we meet on campus though not necessarily at the Campus Club.
• Members are open to a modest increase in cost for luncheons if needed.
• Luncheon speakers and workshop agendas received overall high marks.
• Some members request that a broader array of events and activites be offered by UMRA.
• Having served on committees or the board increased members’ affinity to the organization.
• The majority of responders learned about UMRA at pre-retirement meetings or by word of mouth.
• Member discounts are valued, especially parking coupons, Campus Club, and Landscape Arboretum.
• Camaraderie and keeping up on U of M news were rated high as motives for membership.
• UMRA newsletter, e-mails, and website are valued for communication to membership.

Some respondents urged more year-round programs and activities, as well as more presence outside the Twin Cities area. Members support continued exploration of how UMRA can best serve the University and vice versa.

You may peruse the complete results at 2016 August UMRA Membership Survey Results.