Welcome to Winter Term 2026. I hope you enjoyed the holiday break and are ready to hit the books, return to your routines, and make good on some of your New Year resolutions! 
Whether you are new to the University of Manitoba or a returning student, I hope you find the highlights and reminders noted in this email helpful as you start the new academic term at UM: 

• New International students: Participate in Welcome Events hosted by the International Centre beginning today and throughout January. 

• New Graduate students: Register for Winter Graduate Student Orientation on January 13. 

• Honour the Indigenous Campus Community (HICC):  this year 10 individuals representing the diversity of the Indigenous campus community, whose actions support, inspire and strengthen our campuses will be honoured. Nominations for the 10th HICC are now open. 

• Student supports: Explore the wide range of personal and academic resources available to support your well-being and success. 

• Career Fair: Attend the annual UM Career Fair on January 27 and 28 at UMSU University Centre, to meet employers and explore future opportunities.

• Get involved: Explore the many ways to get involved on campus. Gain experience and develop employability skills through countless curricular and co-curricular experiential learning opportunities listed in the UMConnect catalogue.

• Fitness: Activate your gym membership through Aurora and UM’s state-of-the-art fitness facilities.

• Bison sports: Cheer on the Bisons! Claim your free tickets to Bison home games and check out gobisons.ca for the full schedule.

• Student award: Nominate a student for the new Anne Mahon Award for Community Leadership and Positive Change – the deadline is February 14.

• Stay informed: Check your UM student email for the Student Weekly and follow @umstudent on Instagram and TikTok.

Here’s to a successful and fulfilling term ahead, Bisons. I’m looking forward to seeing you on campus!

My best,

…Laurie

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.

Baker says the new book explores how many people feel they do not belong outdoors. She says people with diverse bodies, unique physical abilities and health conditions and different genders and sexual identities often fall outside of the usual ideas about who enjoys outdoor recreation.

“Lots of people who want to be outdoors in lots of different ways, and they don’t see themselves represented,” says Baker.

The webinar will include an overview of the book, how it was created and some of the personal stories it includes. These stories show how people have dealt with experiences of being left out of outdoor recreation.

Telling honest stories

Dr. Mandi Baker

Each chapter of the book details the experiences of various groups who have historically been excluded. They talk about race, age and disabilities in outdoor recreation. Baker says it was important to her and co-editor, Dr. Neil Carr, that the book told the “real and raw” stories of people who have felt excluded.

“What has it been like to have to be discriminated against, to be left out or to be treated unfairly and unkindly?” says Baker. “How do you get through it? Or if not, how can we help tell the stories of people who haven’t figured it all out and are just talking about how messy or hard it is just to be a person in these situations.”

Baker says they received over 70 applicants for the book, ranging from academics to business owners. The project was Baker’s first time editing a book. She says much of her previous work has been about the theory of leisure, but a part of her “never felt at ease” until her work was being used in real life.

“In academia, we can often talk to each other and forget to speak with the real people doing these things every day,” she says.

Connecting research to everyone

This is why Baker says the book focuses more personal accounts than the technical side. She says while the academic discussions try to represent everyday people’s stories, they can get so technical that the feels in the research are lost.

“I think when we tell stories there’s a connection between people,” she says. “Storytelling is relational and about connecting with real people and where they are actually in their lives.”

Baker hopes the book connects with emerging leaders and decision makers in the outdoor industry. She says the diversity of voices will help decisions makers understand the unique problems facing marginalized communities.

The Inclusion and Equity in Outdoor Leisure webinar happens Dec 16 at 2:00 p.m. Dr. Baker will be joined by contributors to the book including Hazel Maxwell, Kate Dashper, Steve Sassman, Richelle Olsen, Natalia Ospina, Mohadeseh Mahmoudi, Elise Wilts, Nicole Peel, Chelsea Rendlen and Geoff Cooper.

Register for the webinar.

A dedication ceremony for the new Bannatyne Multi-faith Centre was held on Dec. 4. Located on the lower level of the Brodie Centre in Room 078, the space is open to Rady Faculty of Health Sciences students, faculty and staff of any faith. 

The space is operated by UM’s Spiritual Care and Multi-faith Centre, which opened a similar space on the Fort Garry campus in 2022.  

Sanatana Dharma Das, a monk with ISKCON of Manitoba

Edgar French, spiritual care co-ordinator for the university, said the goal since UM’s spiritual care office opened in 2017 has been to establish multi-faith centres on both campuses, but it took some time to find the right space on Bannatyne. 

French hosted the dedication ceremony, which was held in the Buhler Atrium and included greetings and prayers from several university and student groups representing Indigenous, Muslim, Buddhist, Jewish, Hindu, Christian and Sikh faiths. 

“One might say that we walk our spirituality, or that we are on a pilgrimage,” French said. “Many traditions might speak of journeying to a sacred place or destination. They would also agree that the journey ultimately leads to finding ourselves – the cultivation and rediscovery of our true selves. 

“My hope is that this centre will serve as a means to help Bannatyne members carry on this history.” 

Among the speakers were Margaret Lavallee, Elder-in-residence at Ongomiizwin – Education, UM Provost and Vice-President (Academic) Dr. Diane Hiebert-Murphy and Dr. Anastasia Kelekis-Cholakis, dean of the Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry, who spoke on behalf of the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences. 

“As educators of future health professionals, we have increasingly come to understand that health-care providers must take care of their own health and well-being in order to be of service to others,” Kelekis-Cholakis said. 

By recognizing all faith traditions and affirming religious pluralism, she said, the centre sets an important example of upholding equity, diversity and inclusion for those entering health-care fields. 

“All future health-care providers must be aware that patients come from a wide variety of religious and cultural backgrounds. It is vital that every patient is treated with respect.” 

Following the event, guests were invited to tour the centre. The open space has generous storage for sacred texts and prayer mats, as well as ablution spaces, which allow Muslim members to wash before they pray or engage in ceremony.  

French said the room, including furnishings and artwork, is designed to be neutral and welcoming for all.  

Prabhnoor Singh, president of the University of Manitoba Students’ Union

Tim Rozovsky, first-year medical student and co-founder of the Jewish Medical Students Association, said the space is welcoming and will enhance the multiculturalism experience on campus. 

“The creation of this space allows for students with shared or different belief systems to connect with one another and feel safe to practise their faith in a judgment-free zone,” he said.  

Greg Junghans, who spoke on behalf of the Christian Medical and Dental Association of Canada, said the centre shows that spiritual care is a priority at UM. 

“A lot of mental-health concerns are addressed in spiritual care, so I think it’s great for students, and I think it’s a great place to provide them a compass on the complexities of life and a sense of grounding.” 

Prabhnoor Singh, president of the University of Manitoba Students’ Union, said he is grateful that the space has opened.  

“Whenever I come to the Bannatyne campus, I feel this would be the place where I can come in for a moment of reflection, mindfulness or to meditate,” Singh said. 

“There is always something happening in life, and sometimes you just really need to pause and reflect on your own actions, as well as give yourself space, time and energy.” 

The space is available Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. To find out more about guided mindfulness meditation gatherings, monthly Monday mass or to book privately, visit the Spiritual Care and Multi-faith Centre or email spiritualcare[at]umanitoba[dot]ca. 

24/7 study space

Personal circumstances may necessitate studying during non-traditional hours. A dedicated quiet space with on-site staff is available December 8 at 8:00 p.m. to December 19 at 8:00 a.m. in the St. John’s College Library, 3^rd floor, St. John’s College. Available on a first come, first served basis, UM student ID must be presented to gain entry to the space outside regular hours (weekdays from 8 p.m. – 8 a.m. and all day on weekends). See UM Today for further details and conditions for using this space.

Study spaces

If you are in need of study space, UM Libraries are open. Find hours, study space options, and information about their satellite locations on their website.

Academic supports

Writing tutors at the Academic Learning Centre (ALC) continue to offer one-on-one appointments throughout the exam period and writing support and specialized services for graduate students. Academic Advisors remain available to you until the university closes on December 23, 2025 for the winter holiday break.

Well-being

If you are in need of some support, reach out and explore the resources available to you. The Student Wellness Centre, Healthy U and the Student Counselling Centre offer services, spaces, and opportunity to talk through challenging times. Visit their websites to learn more about their services and availability during the exam period.

Exam deferrals are a privilege

Although rare, there may be extenuating circumstances that impact your ability to write your final exam as scheduled. Be sure to review valid and non-valid reasons for deferred exams and where to get support.

Fuel your study sessions

UM Campus Services will continue to operate. Be sure to check the hours of operation for individual food outlets to avoid disappointment, especially on weekends.

Student Affairs exam outreach

Members of the Student Affairs team are offering free coffee and treats throughout the exam period:

• Share your exam-season goals with the Connection Desk (first floor UMSU University Centre) today starting at 11:30 a.m. Grab free doughnuts as a pick-me-up before exams.  Do-nut stress, you’ve got this!
• The International Centre is hosting Doughnuts and Coffee in the T. K. Lau Global Lounge 541 UMSU Centre December 9 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Crunch time: Staff from the Student Wellness Centre will be visiting study spots on campus to fuel students with snacks on Tuesday, December 9 11:30am-1:30pm. Make sure to say hi and grab some brain food!
• Look for Spiritual Care and Multi-Faith Services in the tunnel network between the University Centre and Asper and study carrel areas the evenings of Wednesday, December 10 and Wednesday, December 17 between 7:00 and 9:00 p.m. They’ll be handing out free coffee and treats in collaboration with UMSU.
• Swing by the Fletcher Argue hallway between 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM on Thursday, December 11, say hi to Charge Ahead mentors, and grab a sweet treat for a quick pick-me-up!

Move your body

Through the Sport and Rec fee, students have access to the university’s sport and recreation facilities and group fitness classes at both Fort Garry and Bannatyne campus locations. Visit the UM Recreation Services website for more information and to find hours of operation.

Safety

Download the UM Safe App, which gives you direct access to safety tools, services and resources, such as the Work Alone feature while studying on campus.
Remember to check the weather forecast before travelling to campus and give yourself plenty of time to make your commute.

I wish you all the best during the final exam period.  I’ll check in with you again before we close for the holiday break.

Take good care.

…Laurie

Though it is rare, medical or compassionate circumstances may arise which prevent a student from taking an exam as scheduled. An exam deferral is a privilege that may be granted under extenuating circumstances. UM developed the Self-Declaration Policy for Students with this in mind.

If you are unable to write an exam, and have no other available documentation, you must complete the Online Self-Declaration Form to request a deferred exam. Students must be aware that submitting a Self-Declaration Form either dishonestly, or for a non-valid reason, is the same as submitting any other fraudulent (false) document, which may result in disciplinary action under the UM Student Discipline By-Law.

Examples of non-valid reasons

• Attending a personal or family event (e.g., vacation, wedding)
• Optional travel
• Technological difficulties
• Competitions or events, related to personal interests (choir, acting, pageants, exhibitions)
• Employment-related commitments

Examples of valid reasons

• Sudden illness or injury on the day of an exam
• Unexpected compassionate circumstances
• Known conflicts of religious observance
• Bereavement or loss of a loved one
• Participation in an inter-university, provincial, inter-provincial, national or international scholastic or athletic event

Be sure to check in with an advisor in your home faculty to confirm which events and other reasons are relevant and may be supported by the Self-Declaration form. There are some circumstances in which other documentation may be required by your faculty.

If you are experiencing anxiety around your academic obligations, please view the student supports and resources that are available to you, such as:

• Student Wellness Centre, Student Counselling Centre, or other Student Supports to manage stress and anxiety
• Academic Learning Centre for study skills, exam preparation, writing workshops
• Student Accessibility Services if related to an ongoing or chronic health condition

Best wishes to all students preparing for final examinations.

This award was set up by Wendy McLean (former First Year Centre Academic Advisor) and recognizes exceptional advising with an award of $500 donated to the UM Food Bank in the recipient’s name.

“As an advisor, Wendy’s greatest joy was to see growth; in both the students she advised and in the staff she mentored. In fact, when I was first an academic advisor in University 1 in 2010, Wendy was instrumental in helping me to see the transformational impact academic advising has on students.”, says Ali Wood-Warren, Director, Student Transitions and Success Centre. “Now as a leader in that same academic advising unit, I know that Wendy’s influence on advising at UM is still felt.”

Nomination Process

Nominees must be current UM staff members in continuing roles which provide direct support of students through academic or student advising, within academic or support units. Any member of the UM community (Faculty, Staff or registered UM Student) can nominate an advisor for this award by submitting the following:

• a completed nomination form
• a letter of support detailing the nominee’s contributions and demonstrating how they meet the award’s eligibility criteria (1 page maximum)
• at least two letters of recommendation from staff and/or learners who can attest to the nominee’s contributions and impact as a mentor, coach, or advisor.

Criteria for Consideration

The selection committee will evaluate nominees based on several key criteria, including:

• Improvements to processes and procedures
• Advancements in collaboration and/or teamwork excellence
• Notable creativity and innovation in advising techniques
• Outstanding efforts with individual students
• High levels of student engagement resulting from innovative practices
• Creative programming for advising students
• Productive use of university or community resources

Student Affairs looks forward to celebrating the exceptional work of UM advisors and supporting their impact on students through this award, says Ali Wood-Warren. “We are so grateful to Wendy McLean as the establishment of this award allows us to both celebrate excellence in advising and provides direct support to the students that we, as advisors serve.”

Application deadline for 2025 award: December 23, 2025
Award presentation: February 2, 2026

For more information, please visit the Wendy McLean Advising Excellence Award SharePoint site.

Dr. Janet Lawson, an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management, has been involved in creating the guide. She says the guide is a comprehensive look at how communities can manage inclusive programming.

The guide looks at everything from human resources policies to facility considerations.

“Once we are able to open our doors and provide inclusive programs where persons with disabilities can meaningfully participate, we see they experience a sense of belonging and are able to challenge themselves and learn new skills, just as anybody else would,” says Lawson.

The power of small choices

“It is the small choices that have a really profound impact on the experience of persons experiencing disability.”

The process of developing the guide took over a year. Lawson says a key takeaway from the process is that small actions can make a big difference. She says that just considering better ice times for inclusive programs can really help someone with a disability. This is especially true for those who rely on public transport or have set eating schedules.

“Whenever people think of these challenges, it can feel very broad and overwhelming,” she says. “But by and large, it generally is the small choices that have a really profound impact on the experience of persons experiencing disability.”

Expert insight: from para sport to policy

For Lawson, her journey in supporting people with disabilities began during her undergrad at Camosun College. Her work experience led her to wheelchair rugby and basketball. This sparked her interest in para sports as a whole.

“I found there were a lot of challenges and opportunities to develop new skills and give back in a meaningful way,” says Lawson. “It’s actually quite easy to navigate those challenges, if you have a good attitude and you’re willing to listen to the people experiencing disability themselves.”

Moving forward

“This is the end phase one, but implementing it and getting it into the hands of Canadians is the next step.”

Lawson says it will take a long time to make communities more inclusive if everyone waits for laws, guidance, or training workshops. But, by asking the people who want to access programs, “What can we do to make this an accessible experience for you?” we can very quickly identify ways to approach inclusive environments.

Lawson says she hopes the municipal guide sparks interest and excitement among people in Canada.

“This is step one of obviously a very long process,” says Lawson. “This is the end phase one, but implementing it and getting it into the hands of Canadians is the next step.”

She says they are looking for community champions to showcase the benefits of the guide in action. She says when municipalities start using the guide, they can learn from those experiences and improve parts of it.

Lawson hopes to examine the participation of Indigenous peoples who experience disability across Canada. She says there are additional barriers and considerations that she’d like to see addressed in future editions or supplemental materials.

Participate in the official launch

Active Abilities Canada is hosting a webinar on Dec. 3 from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. to celebrate IDPD and the official launch of the guide. The webinar will share success stories and show how to boost disability inclusion in municipalities, organizations, and communities. Everyone is welcome – no matter the role they play in the sector.

Register for the webinar.

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.