Engagement of Retired Faculty in Higher Education
Author Information
Author(s): June Andrea, Andreoletti Carrie, Swanson Helena
Primary Institution: Central Connecticut State University
Hypothesis
What are the interests and abilities of retired and emeritus faculty to remain engaged with their university?
Conclusion
Retired faculty at CCSU show interest in remaining engaged with the university, particularly through short-term opportunities.
Supporting Evidence
- 69% of respondents were full professors at retirement.
- 31% retired because they felt emotionally ready.
- 26% cited burnout or campus climate issues as reasons for retirement.
- 28% reported their retirement was accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- More than half expressed support for a retired professors association.
Takeaway
This study asked retired teachers if they want to keep helping students, and many said yes, especially if it doesn't take too long.
Methodology
Survey methodology was used to gather data from retired and emeritus faculty.
Limitations
The study is limited to a specific university and may not represent all retired faculty experiences.
Participant Demographics
Participants were mostly full professors, average age 73, with 49% identifying as female and 67% as non-Hispanic White.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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