WINNIPEG – Manitoba’s brightest young innovators will take centre stage this fall at the Falling Walls Lab Manitoba Finale, a global showcase for big ideas with the potential to change the world.

The event takes place on Wednesday, September. 11, at 4:30 p.m. onwards at the Desautels Concert Hall, University of Manitoba, and will bring together students, researchers, and entrepreneurs who will each deliver a dynamic three-minute pitch outlining their vision for breaking down barriers in science, technology, and society.

Falling Walls Lab is part of the Falling Walls Foundation, launched in Berlin in 2011 with a mission to celebrate breakthrough thinking across disciplines. Each year, winners from Lab competitions around the world converge in Berlin for the Falling Walls Science Summit, representing more than 60 countries. The Manitoba Lab is organized by IDEA START in partnership with the University of Manitoba and the University of Winnipeg.

“The Lab gives participants a platform to share their passion and creativity in a way that sparks real dialogue,” said Hans-Joachim Wieden, Professor, Associate Vice-President Partnership, Knowledge Mobilisation and Innovation, Microbiology, “It’s about showcasing fresh perspectives and inspiring collaboration for a better future.”

Alongside the pitches, attendees will enjoy special performances designed to celebrate creativity and innovation in many forms.

The Honourable Mike Moroz, Minister of Innovation and New Technology of Manitoba, will attend as Chief Guest. Minister Moroz’s presence underscores the province’s commitment to supporting innovation, research, and technology in Manitoba.

At the Finale, a distinguished panel of judges from the province’s business and academic community will evaluate the pitches and select a winner. That individual will go on to represent Manitoba, Canada on the international stage in Berlin this November.

Past Falling Walls Lab participants from around the world have presented ideas ranging from climate solutions and medical breakthroughs to cutting-edge digital technologies. Manitoba’s competitors are expected to bring the same spirit of ingenuity to this year’s showcase.

The event is free and open to the public, but advance registration is required to assist with planning and catering arrangements. Community members are encouraged to register early through Eventbrite.

Organizers are also seeking volunteers to help deliver the event. Those interested in supporting the showcase can register by emailing Poonam Chopra, Falling Walls Lab Manitoba Project Event Lead. 

The Falling Walls Lab Manitoba Finale promises not only to highlight the talent of local innovators but also to connect Winnipeg audiences with a global movement that bridges science, entrepreneurship, and society.

“Every idea begins with one person willing to challenge the status quo,” said Moses Levy, Director IDEA START. “This event is about celebrating that courage and connecting those ideas with the community.”

For more information, visit the Falling Walls Lab Manitoba page through the University of Manitoba and IDEA START.

Event Highlights:

• Interactive Discussions: Engage with the Science of Teaching and Learning Team about your research interests, explore potential collaborations, and learn how we can support your teaching and learning projects.
• Technology Demonstrations: Discover innovative tools such as virtual reality, eye-tracking, facial expression analysis, and more.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow educators and researchers who are passionate about advancing the scholarship of teaching and learning.
• Light Refreshments: Enjoy coffee, tea, and cookies while you mingle and explore the space.

Location: Lower Level, 65 Dafoe Road

Don’t miss this opportunity to begin—or continue—your journey with a dynamic and forward-thinking teaching and learning research community. We look forward to seeing you there!

February Events

Turning the Lab into a Studio: Conversations Between Art and Science

With Dr. Sari Hannila
Hosted by Sarah Fuller, SoA Sessional Instructor

Event Details:
Date: Thursday, February 6, 2025
Time: 11:30 AM–12:30 PM
Location: 368 ARTlab, University of Manitoba

Art and science share foundational elements of curiosity, experimentation, and discovery. Dr. Sari Hannila will discuss her groundbreaking collaborations that bring these fields together, including Neurocraft and Dura Mater: Objective/Subjective. These projects transformed laboratories into studios, enabling artists to use scientific techniques and tools in their creative processes.

Dr. Hannila is an Associate Professor of Human Anatomy and Cell Science at the University of Manitoba and a leader in neurobiology research, focusing on neural plasticity and regeneration. Her innovative outreach initiatives include anatomy drawing workshops and art-science exhibitions, making her a pioneer in interdisciplinary collaboration.

Workshop and Artist Talk with Jen Sonnenberg

Explore the Craft of Woodfired Pottery
Hosted by Anaies Mehrabian, UM Ceramics Club

Event Details:
Date: Monday, February 3, 2025
Location: Room 115, Ceramics and Sculpture Building

Schedule:

• Morning Demonstrations: 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
• Artist Talk: 1:00–1:30 PM
• Afternoon Demonstrations: 1:30–4:30 PM

Jen Sonnenberg’s functional porcelain and stoneware capture the beauty of the woodfiring process, resulting in unique, timeless works. This workshop offers a hands-on opportunity to learn her techniques, including creating stretched plates, bellied pots, and stamped mugs.

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More upcoming Winter 2025 Speakers

In addition to these February events, the Visiting Speakers Series has an exciting lineup of guests this term with more to come:

• Tehching Hsieh: March 5–6, 2025
• Dr. Juliana Espana Keller: March 14, 2025
• Sarah Ann Johnson: March 25, 2025

*Dates may be subject to change.

About the Visiting Speakers Series

The School of Art is proud to present the Visiting Speakers Series, which highlights art professionals at the forefront of contemporary art, criticism, and design. This series is a vital component of the student experience at the School of Art, offering diverse perspectives on the most pressing issues facing today’s artists and scholars.

Each guest presents their work to a broad audience of students and community members, while many also engage in small, focused gatherings tailored to their unique practices. These settings provide invaluable opportunities for critique, conversation, and mentorship.

These events showcase the depth and breadth of contemporary artistic practice, offering unique learning experiences for students and the wider community. Join us to be inspired by the creative possibilities at the crossroads of art, science, and craft!

For more information, visit our School of Art Exhibitions and Events page.

Over two days during fall reading break, November 12 and 13, participants will learn about entrepreneurial thinking and how it can be applied to a wide range of scenarios.

“People often hear the word ‘entrepreneurship’ and think about business start-ups,” said Janine Carmichael, faculty specialist in entrepreneurship. “At Better Together, we’re equipping participants with new skills and building a mindset to move ideas to impact. And, we will have a lot of fun doing it while collaborating with new people. Last year, more than 100 faculty, staff and students participated and we can’t wait to bring this experiential learning to more people in 2024.”  

Benefits for participants

• Learn, practice and be inspired about how to apply entrepreneurial thinking.
• Develop solutions to real campus challenges.
• Meet new people, enjoy free food!
• Students will also receive a gift card to UMSU businesses (GPA’s, Degrees, IQ’s, etc.) and update their Experience Record.

Registration is open now. For more details and to register, visit Better Together

Read more about last year’s challenge.

In his opening address, Dr. Mark Torchia, Vice-Provost (Teaching and Learning), emphasized the pivotal role of SoTL in advancing educational practices. Dr. Torchia noted that “SoTL is not just about teaching; it’s about understanding how students learn and using that knowledge to enrich their educational journey, by addressing the challenges and opportunities associated with teaching diverse student populations with varying backgrounds, while creating connections and building partnerships and filling them out with humanistic and progressive aspirations and relational rather than purely informational content.”  

Dr. Janice Miller-Young delivered the keynote address. Dr. Miller-Young described her evolving approach teaching engineering students and advocated for the integration of research and practice to drive pedagogical innovation. Dr. Miller-Young shared how her research focuses on improving students’ sense of belonging to the professional field. Her ideas resonated with the audience and ignited a discussion about emotional and cognitive planes of engineering education.  

The luncheon ended with a panel of UM scholars who shared insights from their respective SoTL projects, showcasing the diverse applications and impactful outcomes of their scholarly inquiries. Drs. Aleksandra Glogowska, Nicole Harder, and Kathy Block, and engineering doctoral student Jeff Paul shared their challenges, triumphs and enthusiasm for SoTL studies.   

As dialogues unfolded and ideas intertwined, it was apparent that SoTL is more than just an academic pursuit: SoTL serves as a catalyst for continuous improvement in higher education. The SoTL Luncheon created a space for discussion, cooperation, and motivation, reaffirming the dedication of educators and scholars to enhance teaching and learning practices through rigorous inquiry and reflective practice.  

Dr. Janet Cape, SoTL Developer at The Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning, closed the event by reiterating The University of Manitoba’s unwavering support for SoTL initiatives, pledging to foster an environment conducive to innovation and excellence in teaching and learning: “By investing in SoTL, we invest in the future of education.”  

Learn more 

The Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) Support Fund provides opportunities for professors, instructors and librarians to meaningfully engage in SoTL research projects that increase knowledge in pedagogy and learning. Find more information about the program and download application forms on the Office of the Provost and Vice-President (Academic) UM Intranet site.

Professor Nicole J. Wilson secured a SSHRC Connections Grant to support a project titled, “Water and climate justice: Advancing intersectional approaches.” The project will engage leading water scholars and practitioners to consider how a combined water and climate justice lens adds nuance to understandings of the linked water and climate crises, as they help us understand the unequal impacts of these linked injustices along the lines of gender, race and ethnicity, disability, Indigeneity and more.

Nicole J. Wilson, Canada Research Chair in Arctic Environmental Change and Governance, Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth, and Resources and Co-Chair of the UM United Nations Academic Impact Hub for SDG6 on Clean Water and Sanitation.

The partners for this project include the UM Centre for Human Rights Research, UM Centre for Earth Observation Science, Decolonizing Water, the UBC Program on Water Governance, the Household Water Insecurity Experiences – Research Coordination Network (HWISE) and the Centre

Public Event

As part of this project, the University of Manitoba will host a public event at the Canadian Human Rights Museum on the topic will be on May 28^th, 2024. Everyone is welcome!

Find additional information about this event from the Centre for Human Rights Research Events Calendar, or the Riddell Faculty’s Events Calendar.

Program

Territorial Welcome: Elder Charlotte Nolin (Elder in Residence, Ongomiizwin, University of Manitoba)

Panelists: Elder Sherry Copenance (Ojibways of Onigaming, University of Manitoba), Aimée Craft (University of Ottawa), Colleen James (Carcross/Tagish First Nation), Deborah McGregor (York University), Teresa Montoya (The University of Chicago), Megan Mills-Novoa (University of California, Berkeley), and Sameer H. Shah (University of Washington).

Chair: Nicole J. Wilson (University of Manitoba)

Location: Canadian Human Rights Museum, 85 Israel Asper Way, Winnipeg, MB R3C 0L5

Time: 6:30pm to 8pm Central Time. Doors at 6pm. Space is limited so please come early.

Accessibility: ASL interpretation will be available at this event.

Date: Thursday, November 23, 2023

Time: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM CST

Location: 136 ARTlab, 180 Dafoe Road W. University of Manitoba

Registration (FREE event) : www.eventbrite.ca/e/patricia-bovey-my-senate-reflections-tickets-753280210387

The School of Art is thrilled to invite the public to a captivating event featuring The Honourable Patricia Bovey. Join us on Thursday, November 23, 2023, from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM, as Patricia shares her invaluable reflections on her tenure as a Senator. This evening promises an insightful exploration of various topics, including the arts, legislative processes, and cultural policy.

Patricia Bovey: A Remarkable Journey

Patricia Bovey’s journey to the Senate of Canada is a testament to her commitment to the arts, culture, and the well-being of her community. Appointed as an Independent Senator from Manitoba in November 2016, Patricia’s remarkable contributions have left an indelible mark on Canadian society.

During her time as a Senator, Patricia served on various committees, including the Foreign Affairs & International Trade Committee, Rules, Procedures, and the Rights of Parliament Committee, and the Official Languages Committee. She also took on significant roles such as Deputy-Chair of the Special Senate Committee on the Arctic and the Transport and Communications Committee. Notably, Patricia chaired the Senate Artwork and Heritage Advisory Working Group, emphasizing the importance of art and culture in the Senate and throughout society.

As the first art historian and museologist to be appointed to the Senate, Patricia Bovey approached her duties through the lens of arts and culture. She passionately advocated for the arts’ positive impact, particularly in areas such as health and crime prevention. Her dedication to showcasing the work of Black Canadian Artists in the Senate, for the first time since 1867, is a testament to her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the arts.

A Distinguished Career in the Arts

Patricia Bovey’s influence extends beyond the Senate chamber. With a background as a gallery director, art historian, professor, and arts and culture management consultant, she has made significant contributions to the arts and culture sector. Notably, Patricia served as the Director of the Winnipeg Art Gallery (1999-2004) and the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria (1980-1999). She was also the Founder of St. Boniface Hospital’s Buhler Gallery and played a pivotal role in establishing the University of Winnipeg’s Arts and Culture Management Program and MA in Curatorial Practice.

An author and lecturer on Western Canadian art, Patricia’s publications include works like “Don Proch: Masking and Mapping” and “Pat Martin Bates: Balancing on a Thread,” among others. Her ongoing work on “Impacts and Turning Points: The Western Voice in Canadian Art” promises to be a valuable addition to the field.

Awards and Recognitions

Patricia Bovey’s dedication to the arts and culture sector has earned her numerous accolades and honors, including the 2015 Winnipeg Arts Council Investors Making a Difference Award. She is also a Fellow of the UK’s Royal Society for the Arts and a Fellow of the Canadian Museums Association. Her commitment to public service has been recognized with awards such as the Canada 125 Medal, the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal, and the Canadian Museums Association Distinguished Service Award, among others.

Join Us for an Engaging Evening

We invite you to join us on November 23, 2023, at 180 Dafoe Road West Room 136 in Winnipeg for an enriching evening with Patricia Bovey. Her insights into the Senate, the arts, and cultural policy are sure to inspire and inform. Following her presentation, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in a question and answer session and connect with fellow attendees during a reception.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear from a distinguished Senator and arts advocate. Register today to secure your spot for this thought-provoking event: Register Here.

We look forward to welcoming you to an evening of inspiration and dialogue.

The 90-minute speed dating-style event will give attendees a chance to discuss their work, research, ideas and studies in sustainability. Each five-minute chat could open up new opportunities for collaboration across all levels of the UM community—new projects, new groups and even greater support for sustainability and climate action at UM.

Catherine Cook, Vice-President (Indigenous), will provide opening remarks, and Mark Hudson, associate head of the faculty of sociology and criminology, will provide a short presentation.

Keep an eye out for a future announcement on the next date!

Over two full days during fall reading week, November 14 and 15, faculty, staff and students will have the opportunity to learn about, practice and be inspired about the impact of entrepreneurial thinking skills.

“Sometimes we hear entrepreneurship, and think about start ups. Actually, entrepreneurial thinking skills are about a mindset that can be applied in lots of different contexts – within our lives, our workplaces, our communities,” said Janine Carmichael, faculty specialist in entrepreneurship.

Better Together is an experiential learning opportunity to explore that further. After several equipping sessions, interdisciplinary groups will set out to apply their developing skills to challenges at UM. Each challenge will be aligned to one of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. On the second day, groups will share their process pitch, engage with a panel of entrepreneurial thinkers, and participate in a supportive networking event.

What’s in it for students?

• Learn, practice and be inspired about how to apply an entrepreneurial mindset
• Develop solutions to challenges at UM
• Receive a $100 gift card to spend at UMSU businesses
• Update Experience Record
• Meet new people
• Enjoy free food!

What’s in it for faculty and staff?

• Learn, practice and be inspired about how to apply an entrepreneurial mindset
• Develop solutions to challenges at UM
• Meaningfully connect with students
• Receive a gift valued at approximately $10 from a Manitoba entrepreneur
• Meet new people
• Enjoy free food!

For more details and to register, visit Better Together

On September 7th, St John’s college student council (SJCSA) will host their annual Jumpstart event to launch the 2023/24 academic year. Going into its 40th year, Jumpstart has been an annual event in the college since the 1980’s. Passed down from multiple generations, this event is hosted in a signature location at St John’s, the Daily Bread Café.   

Whether it be the delicious food, games, or winning prizes, Jumpstart is something all SJCSA students look forward to as they start the school year.  

We sat down with Sharaina Cottick, Co-Communications Director, and Euna Park, Vice Stick of the St John’s college student council, to talk about their experiences with Jumpstart. 

What is your favourite part about Jumpstart?     

Euna: My favourite part about Jumpstart is getting to know all the members and having fun playing games like bingo! It is an important event to welcome new members and build the St John’s community.  

Sharaina: Last year was my first Jumpstart, and I loved the prizes we won! The merchandise was a big hit for me, including St John’s college hoodies and shirts and gift cards to the Daily Bread.   

What can students look forward to at this event?     

Euna: At Jumpstart, students look forward to connecting with friends, playing games, winning prizes, and enjoying delicious food!  

Sharaina: It’s an exciting time of year, and students can be excited about the food and getting to know other college members.   

Who can attend Jumpstart? If someone would like to attend, how can they join?    

Anyone can attend Jumpstart, as it is an event to get to know each other and have fun! Jumpstart is on Thursday, September 7th, 2023, from 5 pm to 8 pm at the Daily Bread Café.  

 

As Euna and Sharaina mentioned, the community is an integral part of St John’s College. Whether over food, events, or games, the community is at the heart of the college, welcoming in students worldwide.     

Click here to learn more about Jumpstart and the St John’s College Student Council.      

To become a member of St John’s College, sign up here.