Academic Medicine Open Forum

Three AAMC chief executives retired over the summer, after decades-long careers at our organization and even longer spent serving their professions and this community. And as we talked with them about their retirement plans–travel, reading, cooking, more time with grandchildren–we noticed that each had been very thoughtful and deliberate about how they would stay fulfilled in this next chapter of their lives. 

We assume that very few, if any, members of this community are retired. But perhaps you know a leader who set a good example for a purpose-driven retirement. What are some ways that former leaders stay busy, fulfilled, and put their skills to good use after stepping down from leading an organization?  

Three AAMC chief executives retired over the summer, after decades-long careers at our organization and even longer spent serving their professions and this community. And as we talked with them about their retirement plans–travel, reading, cooking, more time with grandchildren–we noticed that each had been very thoughtful and deliberate about how they would stay fulfilled in this next chapter of their lives. 

We assume that very few, if any, members of this community are retired. But perhaps you know a leader who set a good example for a purpose-driven retirement. What are some ways that former leaders stay busy, fulfilled, and put their skills to good use after stepping down from leading an organization?  

While thinking about my response, I did my best stray away from my nature of thinking in terms of macro; so, here it goes. I think Leaders' skills would best served by being involved in small grassroots initiatives -- whether it be a local small organization, community group, Recreation Center Advisory Council, etc. The micro is where (1) the immediate service to the community is and (2) needed.

 
Leaders could also get involved with advising groups/community members that have the will and passion for the work but lack intuitional knowledge to maximize their efforts. Ex. Mother House ran a summer meals program out of her living room for underserved children but struggled with grant writing and couldn't continue the program after the summer was over.

 
This isn't glamorous and most likely will go unnoticed by the broader public but it is truly needed. To answer the questions:

• Will it keep them busy? Absolutely, there is more than enough work that needs to be done.

• Is it fulfilling? I truly believe so; and the results are seen immediately; more fulfilling than just reading about them on a graph and/or report. 

• Would their skills be put to good use? Absolutely while also "teaching people how to fish." A talented tenth approach. 

Subjectively speaking. 

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Brandon Vaughan
Advocacy and Engagement Specialist
Association of American Medical Colleges

Original Message:
Sent: 09-12-2022 08:03
From: Penny Schnarrs
Subject: Question of the Week: How can retired leaders find purpose and stay fulfilled?

Three AAMC chief executives retired over the summer, after decades-long careers at our organization and even longer spent serving their professions and this community. And as we talked with them about their retirement plans–travel, reading, cooking, more time with grandchildren–we noticed that each had been very thoughtful and deliberate about how they would stay fulfilled in this next chapter of their lives. 

We assume that very few, if any, members of this community are retired. But perhaps you know a leader who set a good example for a purpose-driven retirement. What are some ways that former leaders stay busy, fulfilled, and put their skills to good use after stepping down from leading an organization?