Paul F. Toner, Massachusetts Teachers Association

New Commissioner
Pleased With Transition to Retiree Benefits

The GIC’s newest Commissioner, Anne M. Paulsen, recently made the transition from the state legislature to retirement, and her benefit transition experience was a good one.  “GIC staff helped making the transition seamless,” she said.  “The staff at the GIC was extremely helpful.”

Commissioner Paulsen served seven terms as the State Representative for the 24th Middlesex District, which encompasses parts of Belmont, Arlington, and Cambridge.  Some of her committee work included Transportation, Children and Families, and Tourism, Arts, and Cultural Development.  A strong supporter of bicyclist and pedestrian rights, she was a lead sponsor of the 1996 Bicycle and Pedestrian Access Law.  She also worked to provide better education, training and comprehensive supports for women on welfare to help them move out of poverty.  Prior to her legislative tenure, she served on the Belmont Board of Selectman, the Belmont School Committee, and the Massachusetts Water Resources Advisory Board.  Commissioner Paulsen also taught in the Newton and Cambridge public schools.

Commissioner Paulsen is the retiree designee to the Commission, replacing long-time member Alfred A. Fondacaro, Jr.  Although she was appreciative of her GIC benefits as a state employee, she’s more cognizant of their importance now.  “I have many friends looking toward retirement who are concerned because they won’t have health insurance, especially if they’re not eligible for Medicare,” said Commissioner Paulsen.  “Those who work for the state are very fortunate to have these retiree benefits and I look forward to representing retirees on the Commission,” she said. 

The GIC extends a warm welcome to Commissioner Paulsen and also expresses its appreciation to Commissioner Fondacaro for his many years of dedicated service.