A recent survey of 4,478 University of California retirees suggests that many retirees remain curious, vibrant and productive, with a commitment to civic 
engagement and public service, for many years after their retirement. The report, “UC Retirees: Advocates, Ambassadors, Assets,” highlights the activities and accomplishments of retired UC staff and non-Senate academics who responded to a survey that was conducted in fall of 2016 and covered the three-year period from July 2013 through September 2016. The survey asked about retirees’ volunteer service, professional engagement, post-retirement employment and awards/recognition.
The survey’s most striking findings concern the extent to which survey respondents remain committed to the University’s mission of public service. A total of 2,772 (63%) respondents reported volunteering in their communities, 849 (20%) volunteered for the University, 1,154 (27%) provided professional services and 653 (15%) published written works.
Most respondents do not take the conventional view of retirement as a time of rest and relaxation. They eagerly share their experience and wisdom while contributing to the public good, pursuing creative endeavors, engaging in lifelong learning, caring for loved ones and participating in a wide range of other activities. The majority of respondents have devoted 20, 30 or 40+ years to the University, and many feel a lifelong sense of loyalty to the institution. For them, retirement is not a disengagement from UC, but rather a shift in the relationship. UC retirees are reimagining and redefining their lives to make a difference, and many do so while acting as advocates, ambassadors and assets for the University of California.
To view the full report, click on: http://cucra.ucsd.edu/survey/RetireeSurveyReport.pdf
The survey was conducted by the Council of University of California Retiree Associations (CUCRA), a UC systemwide consortium comprising representatives from 13 UC staff retiree associations. Lynn Bailiff, President of UCRAB, and Cary Sweeney, Director of the UC Berkeley Retirement Center, were members of the eight-person committee that conducted the survey on behalf of CUCRA.