Hannah Grigaitis

The meeting focused primarily on preparations for the holiday luncheon, noting a lower-than-usual RSVP count, possibly due to relying on email invitations instead of mailed invitations. Discussion also centered on the Treasurer's Report, which detailed income and expenditures for different periods, and the future maturity of a Certificate of Deposit (CD). The ad hoc Committee provided an update on the bylaws review, aiming for approval at the March meeting, and clarification was provided that contributions designated for the Association cannot be processed through the Alumni Association. Future goals for Spring 2024 include new member recruitment via a presentation to the Staff Association in April, submission of the FY25 budget proposal in March, and organizing volunteer and educational opportunities, such as a campus tour in April.

Key discussions included the official recognition of the association as an affinity group under the Alumni Association. Activities reported for the fall 2023 semester involved assistance with the UMSL Alumni 5K race, participation in Red and Gold Day, and a social outing to Defiance Ridge winery. Updates were provided on the process of updating the constitution and bylaws, progress in new member recruitment via the SharePoint site, and a presentation given to the UMSL Faculty Senate/University Assembly. The Treasurer reported an investment in a short-term Certificate of Deposit (CD) to leverage favorable interest rates. The Nominating Committee reported that a slate of nominees for board positions will be presented at the June 2024 meeting. The Retiree of the Year (ROTY) awardees for the current year were recognized. Upcoming activities for the Winter Semester include a presentation on AI in February, an on-campus bus tour and presentations in April, and a membership campaign. There was also mention of encouraging contributions to the Triton Pantry.

Key discussions included clarifying the entity's state classification as a 'nonprofit association' rather than a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4). Changes in the relationship with the Alumni Association, moving from an 'affinity group' to a 'Partner,' were noted, with administrative and financial support remaining unchanged. The board received reminders regarding fall newsletter submissions and warnings about spoofing emails. The President outlined his three priorities: advocating for retiree benefits, emphasizing membership and recruiting, and increasing visibility. Discussions also covered the subsidy structure for UM Medicare Advantage plans. Significant motions passed unanimously to offer free initial membership to all new UMSL retirees, and to open membership eligibility to UMSL pre-retirees (age 55+) and adjunct faculty. A motion also passed to charge $35 for guests/spouses at the Spring Business Luncheon, while UMSLRA member attendance remains free.

The business meeting covered several key agenda items following lunch. The Treasurer's report detailed the December 2023-June 2024 financial activity, noting the first dividend received from the Certificate of Deposit purchased in September 2023. The association voted on and approved proposed amendments to the UMSLRA Constitution and Bylaws. A new slate of officers and board members for the 2024-25 term was presented and approved by acclamation. The outgoing President provided an overview of the year's activities, including participation in a four-campus meeting confirming United HealthCare services through 2027, and announced an upcoming virtual Town Hall meeting for October 9, 2024. Recognition was given to the outgoing president, and the gavel was passed to the incoming president, who encouraged membership renewal.

Key discussions during the meeting included the Treasurer's Report, which noted a budget balance of $14,371 and the receipt of an interest payment. A significant portion of the meeting involved evaluating options for an online payment method for luncheons, ultimately resulting in the rejection of offering an electronic payment system through vendors like PayPal, Zelle, Venmo, or Zeffy, based on board reservations. Planning and events included reviewing past events and setting dates for future breakfast series meetings in 2025 and a spring event tour of the St. Louis Holocaust Museum, for which the Board voted to underwrite admission costs. Membership outreach efforts, including contact with emeritus faculty, were reported. The nominating committee is working to formalize the nominating process by preparing job descriptions. The liaison from the Alumni Association is changing. New Business covered the planning for the Holiday Luncheon scheduled for December 13, 2024.