The EAIE members who have reached retirement and decided it is not yet time to fade away, have formed a network of SAINTs (Senior Advisers INTernational) in association with the EAIE.

The basic idea is that, upon request, individual SAINTs make themselves available, pro bono, to advise and mentor colleagues who are early- or mid-career.

Of course there are limitations. The contribution of a SAINT commonly takes the form of short e-mail response to a question asked or a problem posed. A SAINT might be asked for an opinion or a point of view on the subject. A SAINT may be willing to suggest a course of action, or to explain what happened when s/he faced a similar situation, but will not act as a consultant.

The SAINTs mission statement:
The SAINTs network is a group of international education professionals who see retirement as a new productive phase in their lives. SAINTs are willing to share their knowledge and experience with younger colleagues working in the field, who wish to better understand their profession.

Equipped with a wealth of experience in real-life situations, SAINTs are able to talk the talk with younger EAIE members and provide realistic advice. To mentor, offer support and to lead from behind the scenes are precious SAINT privileges. Having stepped back from their daily professional responsibilities, SAINTs have the ability to reflect and present objective insights, inspiring innovation.

SAINTs’ services are provided without fear or favour, and the SAINTs do not seek financial return.