The Association of The University of Akron Retirees

Welcome, retirees!

By Harvey L. Sterns, Ph.D., President 2023 – 2025

Harvey L. Sterns, Ph.D.

Currently, I am writing this column shipboard as we are cruising in Alaska. I was asked to participate in a memorial symposium for one of my most important mentors, K. Warner Schaie. This event is taking place in Seattle at the American Psychological Association. My Wife Ronni said that if I was going to Seattle then the time had come for us to take a trip to Alaska. I really wanted to be part of honoring one of my teachers who has been a 50-year colleague. In the same way that we have influenced our own students, we have been shaped by our own mentors who helped to make our careers possible. There are few opportunities to pay tribute to such significant people in our lives. Please use this moment to reflect on those who helped us develop and grow over the years. 

Being on this trip and meeting new people engaged in activities reminded me how important our AUAR group is to me at home. The dedicated work of our Executive Committee, our monthly programs and special events gives us opportunities to meet each other, learn together, and share experiences. Please encourage colleagues to join us as we share our mutual history and commitment to The University of Akron. 

I want to encourage everyone to join me in making our university more age- friendly and join in on the activities related to Age- Friendly Akron/ Summit County. The future opportunities that exist on campus- the 60+ program, lectures, concerts, sports events, and supporting academic programs are a few examples. Currently, in the community there are many opportunities to contribute as a volunteer. 

My personal interest in our university and its future is now continuing as I am proud to say that one of my grandsons have joined the Honors Program as a new freshman. Three generations of my family have now benefitted from the educational opportunities that The University of Akron offers. Let's use this year to do new things that brings us all together and make our lives more joyful.

My best,

Harvey