UC IRVINE EMERITI ASSOCIATION REPORT

2007-2008

The 2007-8 year included a number of programs and activities that occur annually, as well as 2 new innovative events. Over the year, there has been increased interaction with the UCI Retirees’ Association and the UCI Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. In particular, Emeriti can ‘sample’ an OLLI course session without becoming a member and all 3 organizations hope to work together on at least some programs. In addition, we were fortunate to add 2 volunteer assistants, Garland Parten and Marilyn Soley, who are UCI retirees with many years of experience, especially with the Academic Senate. They have been invaluable to us.

As is a Fall tradition, we held an Open Enrollment Health Fair that was well-attended by Emeriti and retirees. In addition, we had our annual Holiday Party, graciously hosted by Professor Emeritus Julian Feldman and his wife Marilyn. Ann Stephens, an Emeritus surviving spouse member of the Executive Committee and wine expert who writes a wine column in each Newsletter, provided the wine.

In January, Chancellor Michael Drake hosted the Annual Chancellor’s Reception during which he updated plans for the physical growth of the campus and the new Law School. The reception coincided with the Inaugural UCI Retirees’ and Emeriti Art Exhibition at the University Club. Subsequently these 2 groups organized a photography exhibit, also at the Club.

In March Professor of Biological Sciences at UCS and a postdoctoral alumnus from UCI, presented a lecture on “Antarctic Exploration and Science”, a chronological history of Antarctic exploration from the “Heroic Age” to Modern Day Science of Climate Change.

Julie Schoen, Corporate Legal Counsel for the Orange County Council on Aging and Legal Counsel for the Health Insurance Counseling Advocacy Program (HICAP) gave a presentation on Long Term Health Care and Long Term Health Care Insurance in May.

At our Annual Meeting in June, Professor of Political Science at UCI, Mark Petracca, spoke on “How the Democratic Party May Still Grab Defeat from the Jaws of Victory”, a very enjoyable lecture looking towards the national election. Amended By-Laws were passed at the meeting, along with the awarding of 4 UCIEA awards. Two Outstanding Mentor Awards were giving to Professor and Chair of History, Robert Moeller and Emeritus Professor of Medicine. This award is designed for mentoring beyond that expected routinely of an individual. B. Lorraine Reed and Ronald B. Miller received the Outstanding Emeritus/a awards. Finally, we are pleased to honor Professor Emeritus of History, Robert V. Hine, recipient of the Panunzio Award.