While the final day on the job may mark a new chapter for retiring faculty and staff, it does not signal the end of their Brock connection.

The Brock University Retirees’ Association (BURA) works to ensure that bond with the institution remains strong long after the retirement parties have passed and celebratory cakes have been cut.

Founded in 1997, BURA is a social group for all former employees who have retired from the University. Also open to the surviving spouses of BURA members and retired Brock employees, the organization’s mission is to keep its members in touch with each other and with Brock.

“The Brock University Retirees’ Association encourages the continuation of friendships initially established at Brock, and hopes to spark new ones through our monthly series of events and activities,” said BURA President Steve Hartman.

Among those events is the annual lunch sponsored by Brock’s Development and Alumni Relations Office at the Marilyn I. Walker School of Fine and Performing Arts (MIWSFPA), which took place on April 18.

“It was lovely to see many of our 200 members enjoying themselves during the educational and social gathering last week,” said BURA’s Past President Sybil Wilson, who has seen member turnout and engagement steadily increase over the years.

Brock’s Vice-President, Research Tim Kenyon welcomed the group to the luncheon and shared his thoughts on the value of retired faculty members staying in contact with Brock while they continue their research.

A talk by Professor Tomas Hudlicky from Brock’s Department of Chemistry followed, and further echoed the importance of interconnectivity.

The group was then able to stroll through the MIWSFPA’s student art gallery while socializing and networking.

“We are honoured to play a part in connecting Brock’s retirees with our faculty and alumni base,” said Pamela Shanks, Executive Director of Development and Alumni Relations. “Brock’s retired faculty and staff truly contribute a remarkable amount of knowledge, experience and mentoring to our University community and we value their participation.”

Each year, the Association plans monthly initiatives from September to June to facilitate the gathering and interaction of members. These activities include outings to local theatre productions and sporting events, tours of interesting sites in the Niagara region, an annual general meeting and more luncheons with speakers or entertainment. Other BURA perks include group health and travel insurance benefits.

To learn more about the Brock University Retirees’ Association visit brocku.ca/bura or contact Patricia Miller, BURA Membership Facilitator, at bura@brocku.ca to become a member.