Retiree Life

UMRA is a dynamic community rooted in shared experiences, intellectual curiosity, and a deep connection to the University of Michigan. Whether you’re looking to explore new hobbies, deepen existing relationships, stay intellectually engaged, or give back to the community, UMRA provides endless opportunities to enrich your retirement years.

Enrich your Retirement. Be Part of Something Meaningful!

Lifelong Learning

Just because you’ve retired doesn’t mean your curiosity has. UMRA regularly hosts educational programs, lectures, and workshops designed to keep you informed, inspired, and engaged. These events cover a wide array of topics—from groundbreaking scientific discoveries to creative pursuits, social trends, and even deep dives into U-M’s illustrious history. Staying intellectually active is a cornerstone of well-being in retirement, and UMRA ensures there’s always something new to discover.

Most programs are accessible to everyone, no matter where you are. With offerings available in-person, live-streamed, on-demand through our YouTube channel, as as Podcasts you can join thought provoking lectures or workshops in whatever way works best for you.

Travel Opportunities

For retirees who feel the call of adventure, UMRA’s ever-expanding travel program offers a chance to explore Michigan and surrounding states while building bonds with fellow members. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your wanderlust while making lifelong memories with like-minded individuals.

Social Engagements
through Interest Groups

At its heart, UMRA is about connection. Through our interest groups, members can bond over common passions while exploring new activities. Whether you’re an avid reader, an outdoor enthusiast, love to exchange world-wide travel plans, or a game lover, there’s a group for you.

Many of these interest groups meet virtually, allowing participation regardless of location. Whether you’re in Ann Arbor, traveling the globe, or living far from campus, you can still join the conversation, engage with like-minded members, and feel part of a connected community.

Volunteering & Community Service

Retirement offers the time to give back, and UMRA provides meaningful opportunities to do just that. UMRA identifies and coordinates opportunities for members to volunteer in the community, either as an individual or part of a group of activities. You can use your skills and experience to make a difference. Community service doesn’t just help others—it reinforces your sense of purpose and connectedness.

Advocacy and Representation

UMRA serves as a vital bridge between retirees and U-M leadership, ensuring that the voices of retirees are heard. UMRA is committed to representing the interests of its members. By joining, you’re adding your voice to a collective that shapes the future of the U-M retiree community.

Continue your Connection to U-M

For many retirees, the University of Michigan is more than just a former workplace—it’s a part of their identity. UMRA keeps that connection alive by fostering a continuing relationship with the university. Through events, initiatives, and advocacy, UMRA ensures that retirees remain a valued and integral part of the U-M family.

Stay Connected, Keep Learning —
Wherever Life Takes You

Retirement is an adventure, and UMRA is with you every step of the way—whether you’re an hour from Ann Arbor, soaking up the sun in Florida, or exploring the world. Our programs are designed for how you live now: in-person for local connections, live-streamed for real-time engagement, and on-demand so you never miss out. Tune in from home, join a discussion from your favorite travel spot, or catch up at your convenience—lifelong learning and community are always just a click away.

Build your Network, One Connection at a Time

First-time members only, use promo code RETIREINSPIRED on the Join page and receive the balance of the first ‘UMRA Year’ without cost. No strings attached—just a warm welcome to the U-M retiree community to experience what UMRA is all about.