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.

Carla Loewen, the director of the Indigenous Student Centre, says she looks forward to Indigenous Orientation every year.

“It’s such a fun and interactive way to celebrate community and showcase the resources and opportunities available,” says Loewen. “We want to start off the academic year by highlighting the vibrant Indigenous community at UM. We hope this will foster a spirit of belonging for students looking to get involved or feel connected.”

This year’s Indigenous Orientation, hosted by the Indigenous Student Centre (ISC), will be held Wednesday, September 11 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the UM Fort Garry campus; and will feature entertainment, traditional games and a student resource fair – and a chance to get to know the ISC Elders and Knowledge Keepers in residence.

All activities are open to the campus community, and everyone is welcome. 

Opening remarks begin at 11 a.m. on the UMSU patio.

At the UMSU patio and Migizii Agamik – Bald Eagle Lodge:

Welcome to UM – 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. 
Meet new people, have some fun and learn about the Indigenous community at UM at these interactive stations: 

• Indigenous Student Centre booth 
• Student Resource Fair
• Popcorn station 
• Tipi

Student Resource Fair – 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. 
Meet staff from student resource offices, Indigenous programs and student representatives from student groups as well as the Indigenous Student Centre team. 

Live entertainment – starting at 11:15 a.m. 

Binesiikwé Singers followed by Jason Lepine.

Prairie Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre – 1 p.m.
UM has an Indigenous Birding Club! Learn more about the club and interact with some special feathered friends joining us from Prairie Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.

At Migizii Agamik – Bald Eagle Lodge: 

Visit with ISC Elders in residence – 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.  

Indigenous games – 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Lunch provided – 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. 

Photo Booth – 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. 

If you have questions about Indigenous Orientation, email Carla Loewen or 204-291-5257. 

Share your photos and join the conversation with #UMOrientation and #UMIndigenous on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.