It is possible to foster new connections and research opportunities after retirement

Retired faculty are, in the most part, viewed as extraneous to the institution. As one administrator put it, “they had their input while on faculty and their contribution as either academics or administrators is no longer of any consequence to the institution.” Any attempts by retired faculty to “re-entre” the academy is often met with disbelief, rejection and in some cases hostility. Sandra Hirst and Carole-Lynne Le Navenec have cogently discussed why this is and have recommended steps that could be taken by administration to include and involve retired faculty into the academy. (Although, they did not discuss the financial implications of not involving retired faculty/staff – another story for another time). 

Nevertheless, retired faculty – acknowledging the short sightedness of administration, research agencies, policy makers and politicians – have forged new strategies to continue their scholarly research and teaching. Remember, the identity of most professors is wrapped up in being a scholar, which they have cultivated over the years; and it reflects who they are. But retirement ends that formal identity and each individual realizes that they need to cultivate a transition to a new identity. So, what are some of the strategies employed? 

One activity that retired faculty can get involved with is research or teaching opportunities internationally. Postsecondary educational institutions around the world have found that there is an incredible pool of scholars who are prepared to work in a variety of capacities: administrative, teaching, research, policy development, just to name a few. And the work can be either full-time or temporary. Many of these opportunities come with financial compensation either directly or indirectly, e.g., travel is paid for, housing is provided, per diem provided, a salary for the duration of the contract. For example, the chance to contribute to policy decisions at various international postsecondary educational institutions makes the effort well worth the time and energy expended. 

A second strategy that can be employed by retired faculty is to become involved in outreach programs already in progress or in need of key instructional personnel to ensure the viability and credibility of the program. These are educational programs that support those who are deprived of educational services and can be both domestic as well as international. An example is the Professors without Borders organization. They involve individuals at both the “pure” and “action” capacity as scholars.  

A third option for retired professors is to enter the private sector. My own research shows that nearly 14 per cent of retired faculty have taken jobs in the private sector and remain for an average of five years. Retired senior administrators and seasoned researchers have found that working within the confines of the private sector different than in the academy but at the same time enlightening. Individuals have noted that decisions are not hampered by a long list of conferring with many levels of committees or having to wait inordinately long periods of time before they can act – administrative or research. At the same time, those involved in the private sector have noted that they must give up their “creative rights” for anything they produce. Nevertheless, there is a feeling of release from committees and time delays when working in the private sector. 

Finally, many scholars have joined NGOs to further their work or to use their experience and expertise to further the goals of the organization. Recent research shows that about one quarter of retired faculty have contributed in various ways to NGOs. One way in which many retirees involve themselves with NGOs is through mentoring programs – although this activity is not limited to just NGOs. This means the retiree acts as a personal or professional advisor and provides guidance and support based on the mentee’s needs and goals. Again, their involvement may be domestic or international as well as just being a volunteer or as a paid consultant.