UC Retirees'
Association at Berkeley
Spring 2026 Report
Submitted by Elise Woods, UCRAB President and CUCRA Executive Committee Secretary
- Overview & Community Impact
Spring 2026 has been a season of revitalization for the UCRAB community. The association successfully balanced intellectual enrichment with social connection, reinforcing the bond between retirees and the Berkeley campus.
- Financial Stewardship: The "Big Give"
On March 12, 2026, UCRAB members demonstrated a powerful commitment to the future of retiree services. Matching Donation: UCRAB contributed $2,500 to the Retirement Center Annual Fund. Impact: This ensures the UC Berkeley Retirement Center (UCBRC) remains a robust resource for the entire retiree population.
- Program Highlights
Our cultural and social calendar offered members unique access to campus treasures and community traditions.
| Date | Event | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Nov 14, 2025 | BAMPFA Visit | Curated viewing of Routed West: Twentieth-Century African American Quilts in California. |
| Dec 9, 2025 | Holiday Party | Mediterranean fare, homemade treats, and a raffle featuring "C" parking permits and fine wines. |
| Mar 15, 2026 | Cal Baseball Game | Spirited gathering at Evans Diamond to support student-athletes. |
| Mar 25, 2026 | Mark Twain Papers Tour | Exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the editorial process at the Bancroft Library. |
| Apr 7, 2026 | UCBRC Open House | A vital touchpoint for information sharing and social reconnection. |
- Advocacy and Governance
The Board remains focused on the structural health and sustainability of the association.
Sustainability & Communication: Continued collaboration with the Retirement Center to optimize outreach, ensuring all "renegade" retirees stay informed.
Annual Business Meeting & Board Elections: * Date: June 4, 2026
Objective: Electing new leadership and ensuring dedicated stewardship for the coming year.
- Future Planning: Social Traditions
Planning is currently underway for UCRAB’s signature summer event: The Renegade Retiree Picnic, Date: July 16, 2026
Purpose: This beloved tradition serves as a cornerstone of our efforts to combat social isolation and celebrate the camaraderie of retired staff and faculty.
- Conclusion
The activities of this period—ranging from significant financial contributions to deep dives into campus archives—illustrate an association that is financially supportive, intellectually curious, and socially vibrant. UCRAB remains the primary advocate for the staff and non-senate academic retiree experience at UC Berkeley.