For the first time since 2019, UH Human Resources returned to the Technology Bridge to host a retirement seminar—this time at the request of Jacqueline Chee, an accountant in the Comptroller’s Office.
While HR regularly offers retirement and benefits seminars on the University of Houston main campus[ME1] , this session was tailored specifically for Tech Bridge staff, making it easier for employees to attend and engage. Chee, a Staff Council member, recognized the value of bringing HR directly to the department.
“It was great to have HR come to us,” said Chee. “It made the information more accessible and created a comfortable space for our team to ask questions.”
Deanna Holmes, HR Benefits Supervisor, led the session and emphasized the importance of demystifying the retirement process.
“Our goal is to simplify retirement planning and ensure employees understand their benefits—whether they’re retiring soon or just starting out,” said Holmes.
Twenty of the department’s 80 staff members attended the seminar, including Assistant Vice President and University Controller Usha Mathew.
“It’s vital to have HR present in our space,” said Mathew. “Everyone’s situation is different, and this kind of focused education makes a big difference.”
The intimate setting encouraged open discussion on topics like Medicare, annuities, and retirement planning before and after age 65. Holmes also highlighted the strength of UH’s retirement and medical benefits.
“Our benefits are so rich as it relates to retirement and medical benefits,” said Holmes. “Folks outside the university don’t have the benefits we have.”
Chee encourages colleagues to attend at least three retirement seminars during their UH careers—at hiring, mid-career, and near retirement—and hopes to host more sessions at Tech Bridge in the future.