This is a special year for the Teachers’ Retirement System. On Aug. 1, TRS marks its 100th anniversary. Initially, it was a relatively small organization with about 21,000 in-service members, 1,400 retirees and approximately $750,000 in total assets.

Today, TRS supports more than 200,000 in-service members, retirees and beneficiaries and has approximately $75 billion in assets across two retirement plans — the basic pension plan and the Tax-Deferred Annuity.

As remarkable as that growth is, the numbers do not tell the entire story. To meet the evolving needs of UFT members, TRS introduced many benefits and services over the past century. In addition to the Tax-Deferred Annuity plan, which it introduced in February 1970, TRS added a flexible loan program, expanded investment choices, created a multifaceted Member Services Center and now offers a series of education programs.

TRS’ focus on offering quality member services continues today. For example, TRS recently launched a redesigned, mobile-friendly website with expanded capabilities for online transactions. It will be looking for ways to add features to improve members’ online experience.

TRS is also modernizing its systems and operations to become more efficient and more responsive to member queries. While the TRS centennial is being proudly commemorated throughout 2017, the pension system is always looking toward building better tomorrows.

To make 2017 even more memorable, about 70 TRS retirees will turn 100 this year, joining 150 other retirees who are already in the “century club.” In recognition, TRS is mailing a special birthday card to each of these retirees.

Change was certainly a constant theme at TRS over the past century — and it is sure to change a lot during the next 100 years.

So let’s all join in and wish TRS a happy anniversary and 100 more years of financial health and providing for its members!