We saw record-setting Indigenous student enrolment, milestone anniversaries and meaningful advances in policies and practices that lay the groundwork for lasting, structural change. Gratitude carried us through each season, bringing moments of celebration and remembrance, growth and connection.

In honour of the 13 Grandmother Moons that guided us through the year, here are 13 moments from the UM Indigenous Campus Community in 2025!

Launched Time for Action: UM’s Truth and Reconciliation Framework

UM took a significant step forward with the launch of Time for Action: UM’s Truth and Reconciliation Framework. The framework provides shared direction and accountability to embed Reconciliation across teaching, research, policy and campus life, in partnership with First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities.

Celebrated Indigenous Excellence across campus community

During an afternoon of heartfelt recognition, ten members of the Indigenous campus community—including six students, two staff members, one faculty member and one legacy honouree—were celebrated as part of National Indigenous Peoples Day. Each was recognized for leading transformational change and weaving Indigenous knowledges into all they do. Their work, spanning healthcare, education, science, architecture and more, reflects the powerful impact of Indigenous leadership grounded in knowledge, community and care. 

Kookum Karen Courchene congratulates Desiree Morrisseau-Keesick, 2025 staff honouree, at the blanketing ceremony.

Honoured Indigenous graduates in ceremony and community

The 36th Annual Traditional Graduation Pow Wow brought community together to celebrate the academic achievements of First Nations, Métis and Inuit graduates. This cherished gathering uplifted the accomplishments of over 470 Indigenous students graduating this year, while honouring cultural traditions, community connection and student leadership.

Indigenous graduates receive their stoles at the 36th Graduation Pow Wow.

Keeping space for healing, learning and action in honour of MMIWG2S+

The UM community joined the national movement to honour Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Peoples. Through ceremony, storytelling and research, events invited reflection while calling the campus to ongoing responsibility and action.

Marked 10 years of stewarding truth at the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation

Ten years ago, Survivors’ testimonies, sacred items and archival records from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada found a permanent home at the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) at UM. As the host of the NCTR, UM goes beyond just keeping records safe; we’re a partner in advancing truth and reconciliation through education, research and community-led initiatives.

Elders, Survivors and supporters gather outside the NCTR for its opening in November 2015.

Strengthened campus identity by expanding UM’s iconic bison herd

We added new layers of creativity and authenticity to the herd with two new Indigenous-designed bison illustrations by artists Peatr Thomas and Jordan Stranger. More than a symbol, they carry stories of strength, resilience and belonging—values shared across the UM community. Stay tuned for two more illustrations in 2026!

Welcomed nearly 400 future learners at the New Buffalo Education Gathering

For the third year, the New Buffalo Education Gathering welcomed nearly 400 Indigenous high school students to campus. The event strengthened pathways to post-secondary education through connection, encouragement and community-driven support.

Two high school students smile before lunch at the New Buffalo Education Gathering.

Honoured 50 years of Indigenous Studies built through student advocacy

What began as a small student movement at UM in the early 1970s is now the heart of Indigenous academics and research in Western Canada. 50 years ago, a small group of Indigenous students at the University of Manitoba made their voices heard — demanding their languages, histories and ways of knowing be recognized. Their courage built what is now the Department of Indigenous Studies: a space for scholarship, resurgence and community. Generations later, their legacy continues.

Elders honoured with star blankets at Indigenous Studies 50th anniversary celebration.

Centered community relationships through Researching in Good Ways

Community is at the forefront of research with the launch of Researching in Good Ways. This Indigenous-led initiative invites those involved in research with Indigenous communities to come together in respectful land reciprocal ways.

Secured $5 million to scale Indigenous innovation in education

A $5 million gift from the Mastercard Foundation positioned UM to sustain and accelerate post-secondary education for Indigenous young people, their families, their communities and beyond. The gift is part of the Foundation’s $235 million strategic investment to recognize organizations that are leaders in advancing education for Indigenous youth across Canada.  

Empowering the next generation of Indigenous leaders

Indigenous student leaders were celebrated as one leadership cohort completed their journey and another began. For more than a decade, programs like Bison Spirit and the Indigenous Circle of Empowerment have supported culturally grounded leadership rooted in listening, responsibility and community engagement.

Indigenous Leadership Programming students came together at the Leaf for a meaningful gathering celebrating Indigenous leadership and growth.

Progress with Respectful Rematriation and Repatriation Ceremony (RRRC)

The RRRC co-council made positive strides, hosting an All Nations ‘Bringing Our Ancestors Home’ Gathering, beginning of returning Ancestors in MB and another province, and commemorative art installed at UM Fort Garry campus.

Creating space for belonging through art

The growing collection of Indigenous-designed murals continues to shape how community members experience campus. These designs carry meaning that goes beyond aesthetics, inviting everyone on campus to engage with Indigenous art and worldviews in ways that are accessible, lasting and contribute to a sense of belonging.

Newest mural in the student residences on the Fort Garry campus by Jackie Traverse, Ojibway artist and UM alum.

…and so much more. From alumni making impact in community and beyond, to staff and faculty championing students, to Elders and Knowledge Keepers offering guidance and care—this work is carried by many hands. Together, the UM Indigenous Campus Community continues to build a space where Indigenous excellence, learning and belonging thrive.

Born from the work of the TRC and release of the TRC’s 94 Calls to Action, the NCTR is a permanent place of learning and dialogue where the truths of the residential school experience are honoured and kept safe for future generations.  

Elders, Survivors and supporters gather outside the NCTR for its opening in November 2015.

As host of the NCTR, UM is more than a safekeeper of records, it is a partner in advancing truth and Reconciliation through education, research and community-led initiatives. To reflect on this milestone, we turn to the voices of those who have helped shape the NCTR and its deep connection to UM over the past decade.

“When the NCTR was first established, we knew this work would be generational. Over the past decade, we’ve seen how truth-telling is healing and creates space for real change. It has been humbling to witness Survivors guide and inspire a shared path forward,” said Stephanie Scott, Executive Director at the NCTR and Associate Vice President (Indigenous) Reconciliation at UM. “Ten years later, our responsibility remains the same, to honour the truths Survivors continue to share and ensure their voices are heard.”

Survivors, Elders, NCTR and UM leadership and government officials at the ceremonial sod turning at the future grounds of the NCTR.

Honouring the past as we look to the future

With this milestone anniversary, we honour the Survivors who have shared their truths and guided us to where we are today. Their courage continues to light the path forward.

“At UM, we carry the trust of Survivors the Indigenous community, and all Canadians. This trust is reflected in our commitment to preserving and sharing the documented truths of the residential school experience. These truths support ongoing learning for students, faculty and the entire university community,” says Angie Bruce, Vice-President (Indigenous).

As we look to the next generation, she reminds us of the impact on future leaders. “The impact of our future generation is huge as they have the invaluable opportunity to engage with truth and Reconciliation in deeply personal and meaningful ways. Whether through visits to the NCTR, participation in ceremony or learning directly from Survivors.”

This is a place where learning is guided by Indigenous voices and where students can take part in research and opportunities that honour those truths. These experiences help shape future leaders who carry this work forward.

Education is key

For 10 years, Kaila Johnston has been part of the team shaping how the NCTR delivers educational programming across the country, and right here at the Fort Garry Campus. Currently serving as Director of Education she says the NCTR is a living resource for students and faculty across disciplines.

Kaila Johnston, Director of Education & Public Programming at the NCTR

“Students can book the space anytime—for study groups using meeting rooms or the gallery,” shares Johnston. “We have a non-circulating library and archivists who help researchers learn to use the database. We host open houses, lunch-hour lecture series and online courses, which faculty and students can join anytime,” she explains.

Johnston underscores both the progress and the ongoing challenges of Reconciliation in academic spaces, reflecting on the unique responsibility UM carries as host of the NCTR.

“First, I want to emphasize that UM is the only university in Canada that formally apologized for training teachers who went into residential schools. The President [Barnard] gave that apology in 2011. But Reconciliation has no end point, you have to renew your commitment every year. As Justice Murray Sinclair said, ‘Education is what got us into this mess and education is key to getting us out of it.’”

Remembering Honourable Justice Murray Sinclair

Honourable Justice Murray Sinclair. Photo by Ian McCausland.

As we reflect on 10 years of truth-telling and healing, we also pause to honour the man whose courage and conviction made it possible, the late Honourable Justice Murray Sinclair [LLB/79, LLD/02] (Mazina Giizhik-iban — the One Who Speaks of Pictures in the Sky).

“Justice Murray Sinclair gifted us so many teachings and ideas that continue to guide our Reconciliation journey, and our university is committed to honouring his legacy,” says Michael Benarroch, President and Vice-Chancellor. “His leadership helped create NCTR, and it is our university’s great privilege to help build a new, permanent home for NCTR—one that reflects Survivors’ vision and helps NCTR fulfill its mission and mandate. Like Justice Sinclair’s work, this new home will be a beacon to the world, guiding us in the essential work of understanding our true history so that we can advance Reconciliation.”

As Commissioner of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the Honourable Justice Murray Sinclair led efforts to gather more than 6,500 testimonies from residential school Survivors, resulting in the landmark 94 Calls to Action that continue to guide Canada’s journey toward Reconciliation.

Students leading the way in Reconciliation

Logan Nadeau, former Education Coordinator at the NCTR, continues his studies in the Faculty of Law at UM. Currently in his final year of the Juris Doctor program, Nadeau says he feels deeply connected to the NCTR, which sits just steps away from the Faculty of Law building.

Logan Nadeau attending the Anishinaabemowin Star Wars premiere at the Centennial Concert Hall.

As Nadeau transitioned from his role at NCTR into his first year of law school, he says he remained overwhelmingly inspired by the work of the NCTR. “The NCTR fueled my drive to pursuing a law degree so that I could become the best representative I could for my people.”

Harnessing this inspiration, Nadeau introduced an important tradition of ensuring all first-year law students visit the NCTR on their very first day of class.

For Nadeau, introducing this practice is about informing his new peers of the history of Canada’s Residential School System—grounding future lawyers in truth and the responsibilities of Reconciliation before they enter the field.

He says it also deepens his own understanding of what Reconciliation looks like in action, “Working at the NCTR fulfilled my need to become more involved with the community both at the University of Manitoba and in the city of Winnipeg.”

A pivotal time, a sacred place, a permanent legacy

As the NCTR marks its first decade, attention is turning to its future. The NCTR is preparing to move into a new permanent home on lands returned to Survivors by UM.

“The generosity of our funders and allies, and our partnership with the University of Manitoba have all been a vital part in helping us carry this sacred responsibility. Together, we now look ahead to building the Centre’s new home—a place where learning, research and community will continue to center the truths of Survivors and preserve their powerful legacy entrusted to us,” says Scott.

This space will be an international attraction where history and Indigenous cultures come to life, offering room for archives, programming and community gatherings.

“The NCTR has grown so much since its inception from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. From modest spaces at the U of M’s Research Road to its foundation at Chancellor’s Hall, the NCTR now plants root in a space that will allow its mandate to flourish and its influence to grow into the future,” Nadeau shares.

The new home of the NCTR will offer a safe and welcoming space for Survivors, families and visitors to share knowledge, find healing and reconnect. It will also create more opportunities for students, staff, faculty and the wider community to come together, strengthening NCTR’s role as a national and international leader in truth and Reconciliation.

What’s your commitment to truth and Reconciliation?

The anniversary calls on all of us to reflect on what it means to have such a significant place for truth-telling, learning and healing right here on campus, as well as the collective responsibility we share. The work of Reconciliation is ongoing, and it belongs to every one of us.

Scott reminds us that we all have a role in addressing truth and Reconciliation.

“As with any enduring partnership, there are moments that test our shared resolve. In those times, we must continue to stand together, steadfast in truth, united in purpose, and unwavering in our commitment to confront denialism and uphold Survivors’ truths.”

For more:

To learn more about the NCTR and available programming, visit their website.

Read the 94 Calls to Action.

To learn more about UM’s commitment to truth and Reconciliation, explore the Truth and Reconciliation Framework webpage.

Toby Le speaks at the TEDxWinnipeg event in 2024 as a PhD candidate in medical microbiology at UM.

TEDxWinnipeg is a platform to elevate individual stories and contribute to a global dialogue on meaningful issues. Alumni, faculty, staff and students, this is your chance to bring your ideas to the global audience and inspire collaboration.

The 2025 event was a big success and included talks from UM researchers and alumni, and a musical performance by Victoria Sparks, a renowned percussionist in the Desautels Faculty of Music. 

UM is excited to host this event again at the beautiful Desautels Concert Hall, and TEDxWinnipeg provides exceptional speaker training to prepare you for this stage.

Anyone with an idea worth spreading is encouraged to apply. Applications close December 12.

Elder Norman Meade (left), Grandfather-in-residence Wanbdi Wakita (right) and Carla Loewen (middle), director of the Indigenous Student Centre wearing t-shirts with Thomas’ design.

UM is expanding its iconic bison herd with four new illustrations created by local Indigenous artists that will be released throughout the 2025/26 school year, each adding new layers of creativity and authenticity to the herd. The first to be released was a striking design titled “Nîpîy Iskôtêw – Water Fire” by Ininew (Swampy Cree) and Anishinabe (Ojibwe) artist Peatr Thomas.

This initiative is a true act of collaboration. UM’s Office of the Vice-President (Indigenous) partnered with the Strategic Marketing and Communications unit to commission and champion the new designs. Through thoughtful consultations, members of the UM Indigenous community were invited to participate in the process and offered feedback on initial artist concepts, helping ensure the expanded herd reflects both artistic vision and shared storytelling from community voice.

“The bison is a sacred relative for Indigenous Peoples; one that represents strength, survival and kinship,” says Angie Bruce, Vice-President (Indigenous). “By inviting Indigenous artists to expand UM’s herd, and by listening to the Indigenous campus community throughout the process, we are honouring those teachings while celebrating Indigenous excellence in a very visible way. These bison will remind our community that we move forward together, grounded in both tradition and innovation.”

Elevator on 2nd Floor of Brodie Centre (across from Library entrance).

Launched in 2022, UM’s “What Kind of Bison Are You?” student recruitment campaign introduced a bold collection of illustrated bison, each reflecting the diversity and individuality of our campus to a prospective student audience.

While every illustration carries its own unique energy, together they form a powerful herd—now central to UM’s brand expression. The bison have extended beyond student recruitment to represent our entire community of students, staff, faculty and alumni. Ever-evolving and expanding, the herd is built to grow … just like the university it represents.

Now, that vision is inspired into action.

Inspiring the future by honouring the past

For First Nations and Métis people across the prairies, the bison is more than an animal. It is a relative and a teacher. It sustained communities for generations providing food, shelter, tools and carrying spiritual teachings. The expansion of UM’s herd evokes survival, renewal and collective memory.

“Nîpîy Iskôtêw–Water Fire” bison illustration by Peatr Thomas, Ininew (Swampy Cree) and Anishinabe (Ojibwe) artist, entrepreneur and youth workshop facilitator.

“In Anishinaabe culture, the Bison represents Respect. It also teaches us that nothing should be wasted—its entire being was used with purpose, embodying values of sustainability and gratitude. May we walk with the same awareness, and respect for the world around us,” says Thomas in his artist’s statement.

His bison, “Nîpîy Iskôtêw – Water Fire,” reflects these teachings through its layered design and symbolic elements. His statement continues:

“This piece represents the Bison as a sacred, resilient being—one that has sustained generations and remains a symbol of strength, sustainability and guidance. The blue eyes reflect water, speaking to the Bison’s deep connection to the land and importance of water for all life. The orange Spirit lines flow through and around the Bison, representing protection and guidance, while also visualizing the connections between body, spirit and the land.”

“Buffalo Teachings” bison illustration by Jordan Stranger, Anishinaabe artist and graphic designer.

Drawing on life experiences and teachings, Stranger’s design, “Buffalo Teachings,” carries positive life lessons that strengthen UM’s herd:

“Paskwawi-mostos have been a major part of my life since I was a child. I care for a red buffalo skull as I am a Sundancer. It has taught me and my family many positive life lessons. When we are in need of guidance we look to the animals and the land. I hope when someone looks at this design it inspires something good in them. Ekosi.”

In 2026, two more Indigenous artists will contribute their voices to the herd, ensuring UM’s bison symbol continues to evolve with both tradition and innovation. Stay tuned to see the new bison and learn about the artists’ interpretations.

Just as bison once roamed the prairies together, UM’s herd reflects the student, faculty, staff, alum and community partner collective journey … inspired by possibility and moving forward together toward a stronger future.

Fill out the Campus Commute Survey between October 20-31, 2025 for a chance to win:

• A $500 grocery store gift certificate, or
• One of ten $50 food vouchers for Degrees, Campo or Starbucks.

Results of the Campus Commute Survey inform strategic planning around transportation related infrastructure, education and peer-based programs in support of climate action, sustainability and wellness goals.

This year’s Campus Commute Survey aims to better capture our fall travel patterns, along with our typical year-round transportation needs.

Take the 2025 Campus Commute Survey now.

You can also complete the Campus Commute Survey in-person at an upcoming survey lounge. Grab a free cookie or muffin, and complete your survey in one of the following locations:

• Drake Centre, Monday, October 20, 11AM – 1PM
• Dafoe Library, Wednesday, October 22, 11AM – 1PM
• Brodie Atrium, Bannatyne campus, Thursday, October 23, 11AM – 1PM
• UMSU University Centre, Thursday, October 30, 11AM – 1PM

This survey is approved by the UM Survey Review Committee and managed by the Green Action Centre, and all responses are completely confidential. Only aggregated results are reported back to the University.

The survey is organized biennially by the Office of Sustainability. Previous surveys took place in 2023, 2020, 2018 and 2016 (inaugural).

If you have any questions about the survey, please contact the Office of Sustainability at sustainability[at]umanitoba.ca.

Two Bisons are displayed on the banners: one a vibrant red and blue design from our original group of Bison illustrations; the second displays the “Nîpîy Iskôtêw – Water Fire,” illustration by Ininew (Swampy Cree) and Anishinabe (Ojibwe) artist Peatr Thomas, the first of four new Bison designs by Indigenous artists that will be introduced throughout the year. A third banner states “We are all Bisons” highlighting that—no matter our unique path—we are each a part of the UM community.

The lightweight mesh banners are installed with tension to not impact the masonry and printed purposely on one side to allow additional light to shine through. The banners are now part of numerous focal points being installed on our campuses, part of a multi-phased effort to create a vibrant and inclusive campus experience for all students, staff, alum and visitors. The installations also share our ever-evolving story of who we are as a community.

The tunnel from the BookStore to the engineering complex now has illustrated Bisons adorning one wall, together with facts and figures.

New pedestrian banners along Curry Place, William Norrie Walkway and Princess Royal Walk, as well as new streetlight banners on both main campuses have also been installed. A new mural highlights “We are bold and brilliant” on the tunnel connecting the BookStore and Engineering complex, and vibrant Bisons designs adorn the Brodie Centre downtown.

Illustrated Bisons are shown applied above the elevator doors in the Brodie Centre on the Bannatyne campus.

We hope you enjoy the new campus installations and share your Bison pride in being part of the UM community – there is even more to come!

Designed with sustainability and campus safety in mind, these upgraded bins are being installed in October, which is Sustainability Month. The bins are set to transform how waste is collected and managed across UM’s outdoor spaces.

One of the key improvements is a strategic reduction in pickup locations. By consolidating waste collection points, the university aims to streamline operations, reduce fuel consumption, and minimize the emissions of waste transport. Fewer stops mean more frequent and more efficient service without compromising accessibility for campus users.

Each bin will be placed in a high traffic corridor and will feature clearer signage, making it easier for students, staff, and visitors to sort waste correctly. Whether it’s recycling, or garbage, the new labels are designed to reduce confusion and contamination, supporting UM’s broader sustainability and climate action goals.

In a nod to campus cleanliness and fire safety, the bins will be paired with designated receptacles for cigarette butts, and will be placed  at least eight meters away from entrances and fresh air intakes (as per the UM clean air procedure), preventing littering and reducing the risk of environmental contamination and fires caused by improperly discarded smoking materials.

The bins are also designed to accommodate a Manitoba winter and deter wildlife, crucial features for a campus that shares space with curious critters. Engineered to resist tampering by raccoons, squirrels, and other animals, the new slanted top-load design helps keep waste secure, prevents unwanted messes and allows better access in the winter months.

The new bins were made possible in partnership with the Canadian Beverage Container Recycling Association (CBCRA). They are more than just containers, they’re a smart investment in a cleaner, more sustainable campus. Stay tuned for other waste related updates coming soon.

Pods are available for rent through the Parking Portal on a reoccurring credit card plan. If you are interested in renting a bike parking stall in a new pod, you can be placed on a wait list by completing this form.

Bike Cages

For other bike parking options, staff and students on Fort Garry campus can subscribe to use the University Parkade Bike Station, an enclosed, weather-protected facility for up to 100 bikes, or the ALC Bike Cage, a new enclosure for up to 28 bikes behind the Active Living Centre.
View your bike parking options.

On Bannatyne campus, two university bike cages are located along the east side of Brodie Centre. Staff and students can access the cage by contacting Physical Plant at banwod@umanitoba.ca to have their card coded.

Bike Locking Tips

For those looking for short-term bike parking close to their destination, locate campus bike racks using the Fort Garry bike parking map and Bannatyne campus bike parking map.

Be sure to follow these bike locking tips to reduce your chances of encountering bike theft:

• Lock the frame of your bike and one wheel to an anchored bike rack using a solid steel U-lock.
• Lock any additional quick release parts, including your second wheel and seat, with another U-lock or a double-end cable lock.
• Register your bike for free with 529 Garage, a City of Winnipeg theft recovery tool.
• Please report bike theft or suspicious behaviour to Campus Security Services and Winnipeg Police.

Territory Acknowledgements are living expressions that evolve over time, guided by ongoing relationships, teachings, and wisdom shared by First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. Over a decade ago, UM was among the first universities in Canada to formally draft such a statement. Since then, we have revisited and refined our acknowledgement on several occasions, reflecting our growth, learning, and deepening commitment to Reconciliation.

“For me, the Territorial Acknowledgement is more than a statement—it’s a moment of grounding. It reminds me of the deep histories, relationships, and responsibilities tied to this land,” says Angie Bruce, Vice-President (Indigenous). “It calls me to reflect on my place within this journey of Reconciliation, and to honour the voices, cultures, and teachings of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples who walk these lands before me.”

UM’s statement is a tool to promote understanding of historical and present-day events, Indigenous perspectives and conversation about what UM is doing to advance Reconciliation.

“The work of Reconciliation is a shared responsibility and it is up to all of us to reflect and take action each and every day,” says President and Vice-Chancellor Michael Benarroch. “Since my installation speech I have repeated this sentiment alongside my commitment to advancing and celebrating Indigenous inclusion and ways of knowing across our campuses. There is still much work to do and this new statement will help guide our institution. I’m grateful to everyone who contributed so much time and effort in developing it.”

UM’s updated Traditional Territories Acknowledgement reads:

The University of Manitoba campuses and research spaces are located on original lands of Anishinaabeg, Ininiwak, Anisininewuk, Dakota Oyate, Dene and Inuit, and on the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.

UM recognizes that the Treaties signed on these lands are a lifelong, enduring relationship, and we are dedicated to upholding their spirit and intent. We acknowledge the harms and mistakes of the past and the present. With this understanding, we commit to supporting Indigenous excellence through active Reconciliation, meaningful change, and the creation of an environment where everyone can thrive. Our collaboration with Indigenous communities is grounded in respect and reciprocity and this guides how we move forward as an institution.

As the official acknowledgement for UM, this statement will be shared on our UM homepage and be included in all official UM plans, such as MomentUM: Leading Change Together. For UM events and presentations where an acknowledgement is appropriate, UM community members are encouraged to craft their own personalized, unique and authentic Territories Acknowledgement and can use this official statement as a starting point. The Culture and Protocols webpage now offers a variety of examples and thought starters to help people find inspiration in developing their own statement.  

UM offers many resources on how to provide an authentic Territories Acknowledgement, including monthly workshops run by Christine Cyr, Associate Vice-President (Indigenous) of Students, Community and Cultural Integration, and Vanessa Lillie, Director of Cultural Integration. At these engaging and informative 60-minute in person workshops, participants learn the history of the Territories Acknowledgment at UM, recent changes, and most importantly, how you can make yours reflect your commitment to authentic Reconciliation and action.   

WE’RE NEEDED. 

As an Arctic province and gateway for the North. As the innovators in sustainable agriculture. As the home of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation. We’re needed, just as Manitobans have always been. 

Manitobans see what others miss and we act upon it. Bold ideas have always been born here, and this culture became the foundation of our university. We’re celebrating this and how the University for Manitoba sees the world differently; how Bisons look past the surface, defy convention, and think big.  

It’s why UM receives more funding from the Gates Foundation than any other Canadian university for our extraordinary work in global public health. It’s why UM researchers once looked at a tobacco leaf and saw a cure for Ebola and why we are now building a state-of-the-art biomanufacturing lab. It’s why UM researchers looked at a drone as a new way to expand internet access across the North. It’s why we looked at microgreens and saw a defense against diabetes.  

Bisons see solutions no one imagined.  

We have a history of excellence and unstoppable momentum. And we’re showcasing not only what we have done, but what we will do next. Last year, you may have seen our alumni “Bisons at the Centre” campaign. Starting soon, you will see our newest campaign highlighting the impact of UM research and how seeing things differently matters to Manitobans and the world: “Bisons at the centre of bold ideas.”

Join us as we celebrate our place at the centre of bold ideas. Be proud of what Manitoba’s university has done, and what we are about to do together.  

Sincerely, 

Michael Benarroch 

President and Vice-Chancellor 

This letter to all Manitobans will be published on September 20 in the Free Press and Brandon Sun and has been slightly adapted for our UM community. As we prepare to launch the research portion of our reputational campaign, we want to share this with you in advance as we continue this exciting journey together.