Frequently Asked Questions
What is an official retiree?
To qualify as an official retiree, your age plus years of service must equal 75 or more. Please refer to the Retirement Documents and Resources page for further information on benefits for official retirees.
My colleague passed away. Who should I inform?
Please email Human Resources at [email protected] or call (616) 331-2215.
Is the Rowing Team still raising funds by taking on odd jobs? How do I contact them?
Rent-A-Rower is a GVSU Club Sports program provided by the Rowing Team that allows student athletes to raise money towards their semester dues. If interested in their assistance, please complete a Rent-A-Rower Job Request form.
Who can help me when I have a question about the university or need direction?
GVSU Human Resources can answer your questions or steer you in the direction that you need. Contact Human Resources at [email protected] or (616) 331-2215.
How can I contact other GVSU retirees?
Visit the GVSU Retiree Directory. If you are new to the directory, you must register for access to the Retiree Directory. Once you're registered, you will be able to login and connect with other GVSU retirees who are registered.
Do I have access to counseling services through Encompass?
Yes, you are entitled to 7 free counseling sessions through Encompass, GVSU's employee assistance program. If you or one of your household members are seeking counseling services, please call Encompass at 1-800-788-8630 for an appointment.
As a retiree, can I use the Rec Center in the Fieldhouse?
Retirees are entitled to a free membership to the GVSU Rec Center. Simply fill out a faculty/staff membership form at the Recreation Center Welcome Desk and make a note on there that you are a retiree. HR is contacted for verification before the membership is processed. Your spouse can also be added to the membership for $20/year.
If I want to take classes, what is available to me?
If you are an official retiree (meaning that your age + years of service equals 75 or more) you can register for classes free of charge. However, you must participate in all aspects of the class such as assignments and tests.
If I have a question about GVSU benefits, who do I contact?
For benefits questions, please contact the Human Resources office at (616) 331-2215 or [email protected]. Please visit the Retiree Benefits webpage for more information.
If I have feedback about the website or know of someone who should be featured on the website, who do I contact?
If you have feedback or would like to contact us about the website, please fill out the Retiree Website Feedback Form and we will get back to you as soon as we can!
Where can I find out about events that are happening around campus?
Visit the GVSU Events Calendar for a list of university events.
How do I get my retiree parking pass?
Though you are no longer employed with GVSU, you are a Laker for a Lifetime and it is important to continue to provide you with parking options. The benefit of the Retiree Permit is that it allows you to continue to park as you did when you were working for the university. The Retiree Permit is valid for four years.
You may exchange your current faculty/staff permit by stopping into the Public Safety office on the Allendale Campus. Please visit the Parking Services website for updated contact info and hours of operation for both the Allendale and Pew campuses.
To be considered eligible for a parking permit, you will need to be registered in the Retiree Directory. Please register for the Retiree Directory online if you haven't already. If you have any questions or concerns, please call GVSU Public Safety (616) 331-PARK (7275).
How can I find resources for elder care?
We want to support you through all of your life events, including the care of an elderly loved one. Elder care resources are available via GVSU Benefits & Wellness. Check out the Elder Care Resources online, or contact the Human Resources office at (616) 331-2215 or [email protected] for more information.
Where can I find local resources for dementia support and services?
The Rethinking Dementia Resource Guide is presented by GVSU School of Public, Nonprofit, Health, Hospitality & Tourism Management. The guide was developed by a collaborative group of organizations as a set of dementia resources, connection programs, educational offerings, and collaboration opportunities to help people with dementia and their families. For questions or additional information, call 616-331-6575.
Where can I find resources for financial and legal services, convenience services, and more?
As a GVSU retiree, you have access to Encompass, GVSU's employee assistance program. Simply call 1-800-788-8630 to find resources and referrals for almost any life event. Let Encompass help make your life journey just a bit easier.
When is the Retiree Reception?
The Retiree Reception typically falls during the early part of summer. Please check your mailbox for your invitation. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to University Development at (616) 331-6000.
How do I know if I gave to GVSU this year and how much? If I lose my DAGR (Development Annual Giving Report), how can I obtain a new one for tax purposes?
Please visit the GVSU Giving Webpage, or contact University Development at [email protected] or (616) 331-6000.