Author Identifier (ORCID)
John A. O’Rourke: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3074-9154
Christina Gray: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8464-1961
Abstract
This paper presents an examination of one veteran academics’ experience in higher education. Via an autoethnographic reflection of a two-decade career, the work-related situations that impact on job enjoyment and challenge motivation to bring enthusiasm year-after-year are discussed. Veteran academics have seen higher education transform dramatically during their tenure and the pressure points that impact on wellbeing are discussed and aligned to contemporary research. In response to the challenges associated with aging in higher education, this paper examines how veteran academics need to prioritize self-care and explores ways that universities can maximize the accumulated knowledge and pedagogical skillset of these individuals toward the end of their careers.
Document Type
Journal Article
Date of Publication
1-1-2025
Publication Title
Educational Gerontology
Publisher
Taylor & Francis
School
School of Education
RAS ID
81907
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Comments
O’Rourke, J. A., & Gray, C. (2025). Where’s my tweed jacket with leather elbow patches? The challenges of aging gracefully in higher education. Educational Gerontology. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1080/03601277.2025.2490781