As you approach retirement, understanding the implications for your benefits, employment status, and life after work is essential. This three part series offers guidance from MRU’s HR representatives and retired faculty on navigating phased retirement and full retirement, making the most of your retirement, and maintaining meaningful engagement in the academic community.
Session 1: Late-Stage Faculty Benefits & Workload Adjustments
January 9, 2026 l 12:00 – 1:20pm l Online
The University will outline benefits impacts, life and age changes, and how late-stage employment affects benefits such as Long Term Disability (LTD) and health coverage. The Faculty Relations Team will explore options for gradually reducing your workload. Retired faculty will share insights on balancing continued professional engagement with preparing for the next chapter. Register at bit.ly/LateStageFaculty
Session 2: Maximizing Retirement – Pension, Benefits, and Life After Work
January 30, 2026 l 1:00 – 2:20pm l Online
Get a clear understanding of your pension plan (LAPP) and the different Benefit Plans available to you (ARTA/RTO) and how they will support you in retirement. This session covers eligibility, benefit timing, retiree perks, and practical planning considerations, while also providing guidance from retired faculty on integrating your financial and lifestyle decisions to make the most of retirement. Register at bit.ly/LateStageFaculty
Session 3: Playing Your Cards Right – Personal Retirement
February 18, 2026 l 9:00am – 4:00pm l Online
This one-day workshop is designed as an introduction to personal retirement planning for employees who are age 45 and older and would like to evaluate their ability to maintain their lifestyle at a chosen retirement date. The workshop will help you determine: what is involved in the process of planning your own retirement, what elements are part of a retirement plan, and how to put together a personal retirement income plan. Register by emailing benefits@mtroyal.ca
Speakers:
- Gerry Cross – Mount Royal University Faculty Retirees’ Association (MRUFRA) President and Professor Emeritus, Mathematics and Computing
- Sara Gibson – MRU Compensation and Benefits Specialist
- Shelley Rathie – Faculty Relations Officer, Academic Affaris
- Shiraz Kurji – Retired Associate Professor from Accounting and Finance
- Susan Pieri – Director, MRU Talent Management & Total Rewards