When esteemed university professors retire, they generally take their expertise and rich knowledge base with them. How can retired profs continue to be fundamental participants in a university’s intellectual community?

Enter The Academy at Johns Hopkins, an institute for advanced study, where retired professors can pursue research opportunities, conduct and attend academic seminars, and explore other opportunities for continued scholarship. University President Ronald J. Daniels and Krieger School Dean Katherine S. Newman announced the launch of the Academy last December, in an effort to underscore the importance of research among retired faculty of the School of Arts and Sciences.

“Dedication to unceasing exploration lies at the core of our university, and the Academy embodies that spirit of lifelong learning to the fullest,” said Daniels. “It recognizes our emeriti’s continued intellectual achievements, ensures the inspiration of future scholars, and fosters Johns Hopkins’ ongoing pursuit of excellence.”

All current tenured faculty members will be eligible, upon their retirement, for membership in the Academy. They can declare their intention to retire and become “Academy Professors,” a new title designated by Johns Hopkins’ Homewood Academic Council. Membership benefits include an annual research allowance of $2,000; office space; support for seminars, lectures, workshops, visiting professors, and speaker series; full library privileges; and occasional classroom teaching opportunities.

“For academics, the Academy is everything retirement should be,” said Newman. “Our retired colleagues remain actively engaged in their scholarly work and remain a vital element of the university community.”

A building in the heart of campus called the Greenhouse, which is adjacent to the residence of the university president and across from Gilman Hall, will eventually be renovated to be the new home for the Academy.