Alumni Career Services’ Caroline Francis obtains retirement coaching designation

Caroline Francis, director of UK Alumni Career Services, is the first person in Kentucky to have been awarded the designation of Certified Professional Retirement Coach (CPRC) by The Retirement Project. 

The CPRC designation is awarded to professionals who have successfully completed advanced coursework, a final exam, and met both experience and skill-based requirements. The training program examines both the art and science of making successful work-life transitions to encore careers and retirement. The work includes practical applications to help people replace their work identity, fill their time, and stay relevant and connected, as well as mentally and physically active. CPRC professionals also agree to meet ongoing continuing education requirements and commit to uphold the organization’s code of ethics.

Francis, who earned her bachelor’s, master’s and education specialist degrees at UK, is a certified career counselor, certified career services provider, global career development facilitator and board certified coach with more than 20 years of experience working with adults and students in all stages of career transition. In her role with UK Alumni Career Services, she assists individual clients, develops career-related programming and writes regular columns for Kentucky Alumni magazine. In 2013, Francis cofounded Central Kentucky Job Club, which is still going strong.

“I am pleased to be able to offer retirement career planning to our UK Alumni Association Active and Life Members. Several years ago, we started an annual workshop focused on career direction after 50 and encore careers. It has been hugely popular, and I have enjoyed working with so many clients as they maneuver this exciting life phase,” Francis says. “Record numbers of professionals in baby boomer and Gen X generations are redefining retirement, and it will likely include work. For multiple reasons, many people want or will need to continue working after the traditional retirement age, but they are ready and longing for a new direction. It is important to plan this stage so that one does not miss out on valuable years of engaging work, quality living and making contributions to society.”

To schedule an appointment with Francis, call 859-257-8905 or 1-800-269-ALUM (2586) or email cfrancis@uky.edu. For more information on Alumni Career Services, go to www.ukalumni.net/career.