Fabulous Possibilities: Reinventing Yourself in Retirement

Dr. Ellenmorris Tiegerman

Some women spend their lives making an impact in one chapter. Others, like Dr. Ellenmorris Tiegerman, carry their influence across many. From founding a school that changed the lives of children with developmental and language challenges, to inspiring women today on how to embrace retirement with purpose, she proves that reinvention never ends. Her journey is a reminder that life is not defined by a single career, but by the legacy of love, service, and wisdom we leave behind.

After four decades of building Tiegerman (originally the School for Language and Communication Development), Dr. Tiegerman has touched thousands of lives. What began in 1985 as a small school with just 36 children grew into a network of preschools, middle schools, high schools, and Tiegerman Community Services, serving young adults with disabilities across Long Island and Queens. Her vision extended beyond classrooms into vocational training programs, partnerships with companies like Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger, residential supports, and community-based opportunities that empowered students to live with greater independence.

So, what happens when someone who has spent her life creating opportunities is now wondering what to do in her retirement years? Dr. Tiegerman admits the transition isn’t simple. After such a meaningful career, it’s natural to wonder: How do you fill the hours of each day? Her answer is clear—don’t sit with the question, dive into the answer.

“Retirement is not an ending—it’s a brand-new chapter of exploration.”

Here are the practices she shares to make this time rewarding and purposeful:

1. Prioritize Self-Care. She heads to the gym at least four times a week, where physical exercise clears her mind and restores her energy. On the treadmill, she plays The New York Times Spelling Bee game, keeping both body and mind sharp. Any daily form of exercise is a huge plus during these golden years. Walking, swimming, and dancing are all great ways to stay fit.
2. Try Something Brand New. For her, novelty came through writing and self-publishing her interesting and intriguing novel, Past Lives Denied, on Amazon. It wasn’t about making money—it was about accomplishing something new. She encourages journaling, writing memoirs, or exploring creative outlets that spark growth. You never know if you have a hidden talent until you try something new.
3. Learn Outside the Box. Take a class in something completely new—whether music, photography, or a foreign language. You might just find a new hobby that you love and meet other people to share it with. She insists it’s important not to stay home; it’s about getting out into the world and engaging with others.
4. Stay Connected. “You must buttress yourself emotionally, spiritually, and physically,” she says. Join a community group, volunteer at a shelter, food pantry, or historical society. Human connection keeps us vibrant.
5. Travel. Near or far, solo or in groups, travel expands horizons. She even visited Iceland alone this year—and calls it a fabulous adventure. So, take a day trip to one of the many great towns on Long Island. Walk the Main Street. You will encounter some great restaurants, boutiques, and specialty stores. Better yet, book a trip to a foreign country. Just do it! Traveling alone will teach you more about yourself than anything else.
6. Add a Pet. A dog or cat brings joy, responsibility, and daily companionship. Taking the dog out for walks or to dog parks is a wonderful way to meet others as well.
7. Plan Each Day. Keep a calendar filled with daily activities, social events, and goals. Even small steps add up to a fulfilling life.

Her final advice? “I want you all to make plans for the future. The most important things are hope, love, and social connections. You are the artist of your canvas—and there are endless possibilities.”

Ellenmorris family: son Doug Farber, husband Joe Farber and sons Dr. Andrew Tiegerman, Jonathan Tiegerman and Dr. Jeremy Tiegerman.

For us women here on Long Island, Dr. Tiegerman’s words strike a powerful chord. Many of us are navigating retirement, or will be soon, and her message is a reminder that these years can be some of our most vibrant. Retirement doesn’t mean stepping back—it means stepping forward into new adventures, friendships, and possibilities. Whether it’s joining a local class, volunteering at a community organization, or booking that dream trip, we are never too old to keep learning, laughing, and living fully. As Dr. Tiegerman shows us, the future is wide open, and we each hold the brush to paint our next masterpiece.

For those seeking encouragement, she welcomes emails at etiegerman@tiegerman.org