myHR: November 2, 2011

Not Sure if You’re Ready to Retire?

Going from full-time employment to fully retired may sound intimidating. But you may not have to make the leap all at once. With Penn’s Voluntary Phased Retirement Program, you can take gradual steps toward retirement.

If you’re eligible to retire but aren’t ready to stop working entirely, the Phased Retirement Program gives you the opportunity to reduce your workload while still maintaining your benefits. You can work a reduced schedule for up to two years before officially retiring.

Some basic provisions of the program include:

• Your arrangement must be approved by your supervisor and your school/center. They’ll need to determine if the business needs of your department can still be met.


• Your phased retirement period can’t last more than two years. Once you reach the agreed-upon end, you’ll officially retire and be eligible for Penn’s retiree health benefits.


• You need to work at least 60% of your current full-time schedule.


• Your arrangement should be reviewed every six months by you and your supervisor/department head. If it’s not meeting everyone’s needs, you can choose to return to work on a full-time basis or retire.

Want to learn more? Click here for complete details on Penn’s Phased Retirement Program.

Get Fit with a Fall 5K

Cooler temperatures have arrived, making it the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors. So join the Penn Walking Program for a 5K walk (3.1 miles) around campus on Friday, November 18.

Walkers of all levels are encouraged to participate. We’ll even have volunteer walkers placed throughout the group to help keep a steady pace and make sure no one is left behind. The walk will likely take an hour or less of your time (depending on your pace), making it an ideal workout for your lunch break.

If you’re already a member of the Penn Walking Program, you’re encouraged to wear your “I’m a Penn Walker” t-shirt and bring your pedometer. You'll also be able to register for the program and receive a free t-shirt, welcome packet, and pedometer.

So throw on some sneakers and start walking! Click here for complete details and to register.

Tune Up Your Critical Thinking Skills

We all face challenges in the workplace every now and then. No matter where you turn, there’s a decision that needs to be made or a problem that needs to be solved. So what’s the best way to work through these kinds of dilemmas? It boils down to critical thinking skills, and we’ll show you how to hone yours!

Join us on November 9 for a workshop on Critical Thinking Essentials. You’ll learn how to be more creative—and successful—when it comes to solving complex issues. Discover how critical thinking skills can help you overcome workplace obstacles and easily tackle your professional goals.

For complete details and to register, click here.

Make Your Emotions Work for You

Emotions are a common part of life. Whether it’s happiness, pride, anger or frustration, emotions are weaved into our lives in and out of the workplace. Knowing how to take advantage of them can help you generate positive results in all facets of your life—and we can show you how it’s done!

Join us on November 10 for a workshop on Making Your Emotions Work for You in Your Professional and Personal Life. Find out how to harness your emotions and create positive results in your personal and professional life. You’ll discover how emotions affect your perspective, and how to manage them for the best possible outcomes.

Click here for complete details and to register.