University Gold Medal
Brenna Morton
B.A. Honours (Psychology)

The University Gold Medal is an opportunity to honour the best in the undergraduate graduating class of each faculty. A gold medal is awarded to the undergraduate student in the Faculty of Arts who has achieved the highest standing. This year’s recipient is Brenna Morton, who is graduating with a B.A. Honours degree with a major in psychology. This fall, she will begin the Master of Social Work program at the University of Manitoba.

Throughout her degree, Morton worked on several exciting research projects through student research assistant positions and two Undergraduate Research Awards. “These opportunities have given me skills and experiences which are applicable to the work I hope to do as a future social worker,” said Morton. She is especially grateful for her experiences with the Family and Developmental Psychopathology Lab, led by Dr. Jen Theule, through which she contributed to several research projects and presented at conferences. “I am so grateful to have received mentorship and guidance from Dr. Theule and the graduate students in her lab,” she shared.

“One of my favourite courses was an upper-level Psychology seminar called Social Justice Research with Dr. Katherine Starzyk,” shared Morton. “This course highlighted how psychological theories and concepts can be applied to real-world social issues. I hope to apply what I learned in this course about working towards social justice in my future work.”

Her message to current and future students is to be kind to yourselves when it comes to mistakes. “It’s easy to want to succeed in everything you do, but it’s important to recognize that mistakes are a part of learning and growing.”

Faculty of Arts Honours Medal
Elbethel Masresha
B.A. Honours (Political Studies and Sociology)

Elbethel Masresha is this year’s recipient of the Faculty of Arts Honours Medal awarded to the student with the highest standing in a Bachelor of Arts four-year Honours Degree Program. Masresha graduated in October 2024 with a double major in political studies and sociology. This fall, she will be attending the JD program at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law.

Strongly committed to fighting oppression, Masresha’s studies gave her the tools to also combat hopelessness toward injustices oppressed people face around the world. “The crucial lessons and insights I have gained throughout my studies have allowed me to develop a pragmatic optimism,” she said. “There is no fruitful or just alternative to hope.”

One of her most memorable moments during her time at UM was presenting her thesis project at the Undergraduate Research Showcase. Despite initially feeling hesitant to take on this challenge, Masresha found great value in the opportunity. “Having others engage with my findings through questions and discussion allowed me to creatively expand upon the analysis,” she said. She is especially grateful for the empowering guidance of Dr. Mara Fridell, her honours thesis advisor.

Faculty of Arts Advanced Medal
Kaidyn Brasch
B.A. Advanced (Psychology)

The award for the highest standing in a Bachelor of Arts four-year Advanced Degree Program goes to Kaidyn Brasch. During her undergraduate degree, she majored in psychology and minored in linguistics. She will soon be entering the Master of Occupational Therapy program at UM.

The main thing that stood out to Brasch in her UM experience was professors such as Dr. Tamara Taillieu (Tammy), Dr. Barbara Borges, and Ms. Diana Milner, who expanded their teaching to include experiences and applications outside of the classroom. “Real-life stories and passion were a big driver for me as I navigated my degree,” said Brasch. “With my goal of becoming an OT and working with people, I valued seeing how the knowledge could be applied.”

Brasch shared that scholarships and bursaries were incredibly instrumental as she worked through her degree. “Working hard to keep my grades up definitely benefited me, as my academic achievements were rewarded with scholarships,” she said. Growing up in a small rural town, another aspect that helped her in her studies was the welcoming environment at the Faculty of Arts. “Being a part of the Faculty of Arts means being a part of a warm, welcoming community of students and staff,” shared Brasch.

She advises current and future students to “not be afraid to wander from the path you initially thought was right for you. It took experience in courses to secure the right path for me. Have a goal, but don’t be afraid to explore all of your possible paths. You truly don’t know until you try!” 

Faculty of Arts General Medal
Melissa Schwartz
B.A. (French)

Melissa Schwartz is the 2025 recipient of the Faculty of Arts General Medal, awarded for highest standing in a Bachelor of Arts three-year General Degree Program. Schwartz completed a major in French and a minor in music. After graduation, she will be pursuing a Bachelor of Education at Université de Saint-Boniface.

Schwartz’s journey had its twists and turns – she started studying music with the plans of heading towards a musical career but then built a career with the military. During her time in the military, she learned French and loved it, and so when it was time for a career change she decided to return to university and become a French teacher. “A degree doesn’t necessarily lead where you’d expect,” she said. “You might not end up doing what you planned, but it doesn’t mean that you’ve given up on a dream. The opportunities that you embrace can lead to something even better.”

She advises students to be aware of the many types of student support that are available to them on campus. “Try as many of them as you can,” said Schwartz. “You never know what might speak to you.”

Congratulations to the Faculty of Arts medal winners.

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UM Bisons are at the centre of it all, making a difference here in Manitoba and around the world. 3058 degrees are being awarded at Spring Convocation 2025 (over 620 are from the Faculty of Arts), bringing the total number of UM graduates to 4200 so far this year. Many of these new alumni will stay in Manitoba, supplying high-demand skills to the labour market and contributing to UM’s $7.3 billion economic impact on our community.

Visit the UM Student Instagram  and Faculty of Arts Instagram to learn more about some of the students graduating in 2025. You’ll find congratulations messages from fellow graduates and professors, stories about fellow graduates, more information about convocation and tips for new alumni. You can also join the ‘Convocation conversation’ on social media by following #convocation2025.

To better understand the prairie dialect, we reached a socio-linguist professor Nicole Rosen from the University of Manitoba

To listen to the entire conversation, please follow the link to CBC Calgary.

Nicole Rosen, Canada Research Chair in Language Interactions in the Department of Linguistics studies Canada’s vast linguistic diversity and works with organizations such as the Conseil jeunesse provincial (provincial couth council) of Manitoba and the BC Métis Federation to address the language rights of groups such as recent immigrants and First Nations, Métis and Inuit children. She also focuses on Manitoba’s diverse population to spark innovation in the study of past and present interactions among official; heritage; and First Nations, Métis and Inuit languages.

“What interests me most is understanding the interactions between people and languages that are in close proximity to each other,” she says. “My research aims to discover what language tells us about the interactions between people, but also how language changes as a result of these interactions. This relationship goes both ways.” Rosen says this could include vocabulary, expressions, pronunciations and overall sounds producing distinctive accents that coexist harmoniously. 

Rosen highlights bird species that borrow sounds from surrounding birds, singing differently depending on their location, like a dialect. “We never say that birds sing badly or that they should express themselves differently. It should be the same for the diversity of accents. It is so lovely to hear these differences that reflect the mosaic of people,” she concludes.

To read the full research profile, please follow the link to the Government of Canada.

United States President Donald Trump has recently been commenting on accents while meeting foreign leaders and taking questions from foreign journalists. Trump praised British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s “beautiful” accent, saying he would have been president 20 years ago if he’d had that accent.

He didn’t answer an Afghan journalist’s question, saying her accent was “beautiful” but that he didn’t understand it, and he completely dismissed the question of a journalist from India during a joint news conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying he didn’t understand his accent before abruptly moving on.

Read the full story here. 

The result of a landmark $200-million gift, the McCall MacBain Scholarships are Canada’s largest leadership-based scholarships for master’s and professional studies. Each scholarship covers tuition and fees for an eligible degree, a living stipend of $2,300 per month during academic terms, summer funding options, mentorship, coaching, a leadership curriculum, and access to the McCall MacBain House. A relocation grant is provided for scholars originating from outside of Montreal.

Elora and Rachel are among 52 Canadian finalists chosen from approximately 700 applicants after a first round of interviews. The selection process emphasizes holistic criteria such as character, community engagement, leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, academic strength, and intellectual curiosity.

Elora Cromarty, Bachelor of Arts (Linguistics) student and 2025 McCall MacBain Scholarship finalist

Elora Cromarty is completing a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics at the University of Manitoba. She has worked on several Cree language projects at the university and with Indigenous Languages of Manitoba, a non-profit organization.

Elora is a member of the Indigenous Circle of Empowerment leadership program and co-president of the Indigenous Students’ Association. She has volunteered for four years as a Neechiwaken Indigenous Peer Mentor and acted as an associate representative for Indigenous students in the Faculty of Arts student body council.

She is applying for master’s programs at McGill to pursue research on Indigenous language revitalization.

“The University of Manitoba has lots of programming for Indigenous students to develop leadership skills, mentorship skills, and to foster community involvement with other students, at the university,” said Elora. “Being involved with these opportunities and cultural events, offered through the university, has helped prepare me for this current opportunity.”

Rachel Cluett, Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) graduate and 2025 McCall MacBain Scholarship finalist

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology graduate Rachel Cluett has worked for and volunteered for several years with the Hearts and Minds Lab. She coordinated projects, determined eligibility for a clinical mental health trial, and contributed to a manuscript on challenges and service barriers for immigrant families. Rachel has also volunteered at Survivor’s Hope Crisis Centre, advocating and supporting survivors of sexual violence. She is developing her photography skills as a volunteer for local events, and she has gained management experience by working at a restaurant.

Rachel is applying for master’s programs in psychology. She hopes to improve access to ADHD support and services, particularly in rural communities.

“Being named a finalist is an incredible honour and a deeply humbling experience,” said Rachel. “It’s both validating and inspiring to be part of a group of leaders and changemakers who can guide my passion for service and growth. This opportunity has reinforced my drive to contribute meaningfully to my community and pursue my psychology career.”

“We need more leaders who act with integrity, kindness, curiosity, and courage,” said Dr. Marcy McCall MacBain, Chair of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill. “We congratulate these students who have already distinguished themselves as the top candidates nationally and globally, and we thank the universities that endorsed them for this opportunity.”

During their visit to Montreal, they will participate in interviews with leaders from academia, business, government, and the social sector. Up to 30 McCall MacBain Scholars will be selected after final interviews. Finalists not selected for the cohort will be eligible to receive $10,000 or $20,000 for their studies at McGill.

“We are grateful to the more than 300 senior leaders who contribute their time to the decision-making process,” added Natasha Sawh, CEO of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill. “The interview process allows students to reflect on their experiences and motivations, and we hope each one comes away from the process with a better understanding of their capacity to lead and to strengthen communities.”

Applications will open in June 2025 for the 2026 cohort. Find information about the McCall MacBain Scholarships on their website.

Still, it is hard to feel terribly wise when using our modern-day language, so rife with slang from rizz to skibidi to drip.

While these terms may come and go, experts say the phenomenon behind them, which constantly churns out brand-new bon mots, is as old as language itself.

“I don’t think you can possibly talk about language without slang being a part of it,” said Nicole Rosen, head of the University of Manitoba’s linguistics department.

To read more of this article, please visit CTV Winnipeg.

Over 35 Faculty of Arts students who were 2024 undergraduate student research award (URA) and psychology undergraduate research experience award (PURE) competition winners and their research advisors came together for a luncheon event where they shared what the students worked on, what the supervisors had to say about the students’ amazing work and what each student learned from their experience.

“Undergraduate students play an important role in helping advance the research that takes place in our Faculty,” said Dr. Heidi Marx, Dean, Faculty of Arts. “Whether applied or fundamental, Arts research explores questions and issues that are critical to our society, and makes meaningful contributions to knowledge and our understanding of the world we live in. At the same time, the students learn valuable skills that they will be able to draw upon in both their studies and their future careers.”

“Students learn valuable skills that they will be able to draw upon in both their studies and their future careers.” – Dr. Heidi Marx, Dean

Through research work, Faculty of Arts students build skills in research methodologies and techniques, how to write about and present data, data collection and analysis, public speaking, critical thinking and technical skills such as using software or various lab techniques. The award winners shared how they worked on exciting and diverse tasks such as scouring databases, legislation, library catalogs and archives, conducting literature reviews, designing surveys, recruiting research participants and conducting interviews, analyzing data and helping to communicate research findings to the greater community by contributing to a variety of items such as articles, reports, presentations, blogs and video essays.

Marley Pauls [BA(Hons)/24], a former URA recipient, spoke to the students about why they became a student researcher and the thrill of winning first place in the oral format category at the 2023 UM Undergraduate Research Showcase (Humanities and Social Sciences category). Now a graduate student in linguistics and discourse studies at Carleton University, they shared with students how participating in research enhanced their overall undergraduate experience and led to opportunities they wouldn’t have imagined were available and possible.

At the luncheon, the students were encouraged to take what they’ve learned to the next level by applying for the UM undergraduate research showcase and for future research awards. Dr. Marx added that participating in these events “can open doors to even more skill-building opportunities for students to further their experience and learning”.

The event was a huge success. There were many smiling faces as each student received a keepsake that included a personal message from their academic supervisor. The students were reminded to feel proud of their contributions and accomplishments. In return, the students thanked their supervisors for providing the opportunity to learn and explore many unique and exciting areas of study.

2024 URA award recipient Grace Elendu, a criminology major, encourages fellow Arts undergraduate students to apply for a future URA. “University is all about taking opportunities and gaining new experiences,” Elendu shared. “Say yes to as many things as you can. You never know where that ‘yes’ could take you in the future.”

Research opportunities for students

The next UM undergraduate research showcase takes place on October 24, 2024. Learn more and apply.

Undergraduate students can apply for a 2025 URA or PURE. Visit the web for more information and to see deadlines for each award.

Watch what students had to say about their Arts undergraduate research experience:

National Indigenous Languages Day was first celebrated in Canada in 1993. Originally meant to encourage public awareness of endangered languages, it has expanded to provide an opportunity for conversations about many other benefits and opportunities including educational and economic benefits to both Indigenous communities and the broader Canadian society.

An endangered language requires more support than just teaching new speakers to use it in the home. To bring a language back, it takes an overall effort to build up both human and teaching resources. This can be accomplished through teaching individuals how to understand, speak and write the language, how to respect and acknowledge the teachings and knowledge built into a language, how to use the language in professional settings, how to teach the language to others, and how to document the language by creating resources such as dictionaries, textbooks, worksheets and videos.

Universities can play a pivotal role in supporting Indigenous language revitalization efforts through their courses, their experts, their resources, and their cultural programs and supports.

UM currently offers language instruction in Ojibwe and Cree. Students are supported in their learning with language tutors, resources and language drop-ins led by Elders. Courses help to teach the languages along with the history and structure of the languages. This combination assists those looking to not only learn to speak and understand but also to teach others; to help grow the number of speakers in Manitoba. Academics and graduate students in the Faculty have also provided their expertise in the development of various resources to document Indigenous languages; helping to secure their existence into the future.

Proficiency in Indigenous languages can open-up diverse career opportunities. In sectors such as education, healthcare, government and public service, social services, and law, there is a growing demand for professionals who can communicate effectively with Indigenous communities in their own languages. Documentation and transcription professionals are also in demand. Industries across Canada including resource and environmental management, arts and media, publishing, and tourism and hospitality have an increased need for bilingual speakers. Bilingualism in English or French and an Indigenous language can increase employability and the ability to serve Indigenous populations more effectively.

Over the next two years, the Faculty of Arts is working to expand the Indigenous languages program offerings to help meet the growing occupational demand and to make the programs more accessible to adult learners and those outside of Winnipeg.

With the growing interest in learning Indigenous languages from both a cultural and economic perspective, there are more courses and programs being offered in K to 12 schools, universities, and by community groups than ever before. “The more programs and supports we can offer to new learners, the better chance we have to document and grow the languages,” said Dr. Lorena Sekwan Fontaine, associate professor and department head of Indigenous Studies, “with the additional benefit of developing speakers who can turn their new language skills into a variety of job opportunities.”

As we celebrate National Indigenous Languages Day in 2024, let’s take a moment to celebrate the work that’s been done so far and look forward to continuing the tasks necessary to revitalize Indigenous languages in Canada.

Learn more about the Department of Indigenous Studies and the Indigenous languages minor.

Learn more about the Department of Linguistics.

Vaclav Smil, UM Distinguished Professor Emeritus – Invention and Innovation: A Brief History of Hype and Failure

Why wouldn’t you read something recommended by someone who changed the world with his technological genius? At the time of this 2017  CNBC article, Bill Gates said he had read 37 books by UM Distinguished Professor Emeritus from the Faculty of Environment and on his blog said, “I wait for new Smil books the way some people wait for the next Star Wars movie.” No doubt, Gates has read Smil’s latest book, Invention and Innovation: A Brief History of Hype and Failure , released earlier this year. It looks at the history of human invention and the hype that goes along with it, going over everything from new cures for diseases to AI. 

Gordon Goldsborough [BSc(Hons)/81, PhD/86], associate professor, Faculty of Science– On The Road To Abandoned Manitoba: Taking the scenic route through historic places

Gordon Goldsborough, recently launched his latest book in his Abandoned Manitoba series at McNally Grant Park on Nov. 24. On The Road To Abandoned Manitoba: Taking the scenic route through historic places is the third book in the series where he delves into little-known stories from across the province, including photos. 

Dr. David Annandale [BA/90, MA/92], senior knstructor, Department of English, Theatre, Film & Media – The Tyrant Skies: A Marvel: Untold Novel

If you’re a Marvel fan, you’ll want to immerse yourself in Dr. David Annandale’s latest Doctor Doom tale, The Tyrant Skies. Dr. Annandale crafts an interesting tale of conflict and intrigue as Doctor Doom faces Red Skull, his deadliest enemy, and confronts a wave of attacks, putting his beliefs, strength and powers to the ultimate test. 

Méira Cook [PhD/98] (Major: English) – The Full Catastrophe

If you’re in the mood for a heartfelt and beautifully written coming-of-age tale, 2023 Margaret Laurence Award for Fiction winner The Full Catastrophe by Méira Cook is an absolute must-read. Set in downtown Winnipeg, the story follows Charlie Minkoff, a thirteen-year-old boy navigating the complexities of adolescence while living with intersex traits. Amidst struggles at school and pondering his father’s abandonment, Charlie finds solace in the love of his grandfather, a group of endearing misfits and a lovable, always-hungry dog. When he sets out on a mission to rectify his grandfather’s past, he discovers the importance of embracing his own story. This novel is a compelling blend of psychological depth, tenderness and humor that will leave you captivated. 

Lise Gaboury Diallo [BesA/78] (Major: French) – Petites Déviations

For poetry enthusiasts looking for an asserting collection, Lise Gaboury Diallo’s Petites Déviations is a gem. As an acclaimed figure in French-Canadian literature, Diallo’s poetic skill shines through, where she delves into contemplations, introspective reflections and intimate confidences. The poems explore the masks we wear, the compromises we make and the passage of time, revealing a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences. Winner of the Rue-Deschambault prize, this collection will leave you with a heightened sense of awareness and a deeper connection to the world around you. This book is written in French. 

David Thomas Smith [BA/73, MCP/77] – After 60 and On the Edge Like Indiana Jones

Let’s dive into an exciting adventure through the eyes of a first-time author, David Thomas Smith, as he takes you on a journey through his travels and volunteer assignments for the Canadian Executive Service Organization (CESO). In After 60 and On the Edge Like Indiana Jones: Amazing Experiences Through Volunteering and Travel , Smith shares tales of his escapades in various developing countries, providing deep understanding into the challenges, rewards and cultural uniqueness he encounters. This story not only narrates the excitement of his experiences but also serves as a reminder of the value of volunteer service. If you’re seeking an inspiring and fascinating memoir, this book is the perfect companion for your summer reading list.  

John Einarson [BA/73, CertEd/78] (Major: History) – Heart of Gold: A History of Winnipeg Music

Let’s take a look at the rich musical heritage of Winnipeg with renowned music historian John Einarson’s, Heart of Gold: A History of Winnipeg Music. This comprehensive exploration takes readers on a fascinating journey through the city’s various music scenes, from Indigenous and francophone music to country, folk, rock’n’roll and more. Einarson reveals how Winnipeg has been a significant hub for Canadian music for over a century, with its artists shaping and influencing the nation’s musical landscape. If you’re a music enthusiast or simply curious about the vibrant cultural history of Winnipeg, this book is a must-read.

Guy Gavriel Kay [BA/75] (Major: Philosophy) – All the Seas of the World

The latest, All the Seas of the World from international best-selling fantasy author, Guy Gavriel Kay, is a page-turning drama that offers moving reflections on memory, fate and the random events that can shape our lives. Two assassins are dropped on a lonely stretch of coast in the dark of night. They have been hired by two of the most dangerous men alive to alter the balance of power in the world. If they succeed, the consequences will affect the destinies of empires and the lives of many. The books from this award winning author are definitely worth a look. In 2014, Kay was named to the Order of Canada and his works have been translated into more than thirty languages. 

James Arnett [BA/59, LLB/63] – Bean Fate: Based on a True Crime

If you’re a fan of gripping true-crime stories set in the Prohibition era, Bean Fate a debut novel from James Arnett will keep you on the edge of your seat. Inspired by shocking events in a Saskatchewan border town, this novel uncovers the intricate web of suspicions surrounding the politicians and their potential connections to Al Capone and the Chicago Mob. Follow rookie cop Jack Ross as he unravels the truth, even after being taken off the case. Bean Fate is a riveting tale of intrigue, crime and the quest for justice. Purchase: Bean Fate: Based on a True Crime

Chimwemwe Undi [BA(Adv)/16, JD/20] (Major: Linguistics)–“Auto-epithalamium” and “Epithalamium Ending in Death” included in Canthius 10

For lovers of evocative poetry, the works of Chimwemwe Undi, Winnipeg’s Poet Laureate for 2023-24 and a lawyer with TDS Law in Winnipeg, are a great choice. Her poems “Auto-epithalamium” and “Epithalamium Ending in Death” explore the intersection of love and climate grief, offering profound insights into human emotions and the impact of climate change. These poems celebrate love’s joy and simultaneously address the challenges posed by climate uncertainties in relationships. Undi’s unique storytelling and spoken word traditions will leave you moved and deeply connected to her words. You can read her poems in the 10^th issue of feminist literary periodical Canthius. Also watch for Undi’s debut collection, Scientific Marvel, coming to print in April 2024.

Méira Cook [PhD/98] (Major: English) – The Full Catastrophe

If you’re in the mood for a heartfelt and beautifully written coming-of-age tale, 2023 Margaret Laurence Award for Fiction winner The Full Catastrophe by Méira Cook is an absolute must-read. Set in downtown Winnipeg, the story follows Charlie Minkoff, a thirteen-year-old boy navigating the complexities of adolescence while living with intersex traits. Amidst struggles at school and pondering his father’s abandonment, Charlie finds solace in the love of his grandfather, a group of endearing misfits and a lovable, always-hungry dog. When he sets out on a mission to rectify his grandfather’s past, he discovers the importance of embracing his own story. This novel is a compelling blend of psychological depth, tenderness and humor that will leave you captivated. Purchase: The Full Catastrophe (published by House of Anansi Press)

Lise Gaboury Diallo [BesA/78] (Major: French) – Petites Déviations

For poetry enthusiasts looking for an asserting collection, Lise Gaboury Diallo’s Petites Déviations is a gem. As an acclaimed figure in French-Canadian literature, Diallo’s poetic skill shines through, where she delves into contemplations, introspective reflections and intimate confidences. The poems explore the masks we wear, the compromises we make and the passage of time, revealing a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences. Winner of the Rue-Deschambault prize, this collection will leave you with a heightened sense of awareness and a deeper connection to the world around you. This book is written in French. Purchase: Petites Déviations (published by Renaud-Bray)

David Thomas Smith [BA/73, MCP/77] – After 60 and On the Edge Like Indiana Jones

Let’s dive into an exciting adventure through the eyes of a first-time author, David Thomas Smith, as he takes you on a journey through his travels and volunteer assignments for the Canadian Executive Service Organization (CESO). In After 60 and On the Edge Like Indiana Jones: Amazing Experiences Through Volunteering and Travel, Smith shares tales of his escapades in various developing countries, providing deep understanding into the challenges, rewards and cultural uniqueness he encounters. This story not only narrates the excitement of his experiences but also serves as a reminder of the value of volunteer service. If you’re seeking an inspiring and fascinating memoir, this book is the perfect companion for your summer reading list. Purchase: After 60 and On the Edge Like Indiana Jones (published by FriesenPress)

John Einarson [BA/73, CertEd/78] (Major: History) – Heart of Gold: A History of Winnipeg Music

Let’s take a look at the rich musical heritage of Winnipeg with renowned music historian John Einarson’s Heart of Gold: A History of Winnipeg Music. This comprehensive exploration takes readers on a fascinating journey through the city’s various music scenes, from Indigenous and francophone music to country, folk, rock’n’roll and more. Einarson reveals how Winnipeg has been a significant hub for Canadian music for over a century, with its artists shaping and influencing the nation’s musical landscape. If you’re a music enthusiast or simply curious about the vibrant cultural history of Winnipeg, this book is a must-read. Purchase: Heart of Gold: A History of Winnipeg Music

Guy Gavriel Kay [BA/75] (Major: Philosophy) – All the Seas of the World

The latest from international best-selling fantasy author Guy Gavriel Kay is a page-turning drama that offers moving reflections on memory, fate and the random events that can shape our lives. Two assassins are dropped on a lonely stretch of coast in the dark of night. They have been hired by two of the most dangerous men alive to alter the balance of power in the world. If they succeed, the consequences will affect the destinies of empires and the lives of many. The books from this award winning author are definitely worth a look. In 2014, Kay was named to the Order of Canada and his works have been translated into more than thirty languages. Purchase: All the Seas of the World (published by Penguin Canada)

James Arnett [BA/59, LLB/63] – Bean Fate: Based on a True Crime

If you’re a fan of gripping true-crime stories set in the Prohibition era, Bean Fate a debut novel from James Arnett will keep you on the edge of your seat. Inspired by shocking events in a Saskatchewan border town, this novel uncovers the intricate web of suspicions surrounding the politicians and their potential connections to Al Capone and the Chicago Mob. Follow rookie cop Jack Ross as he unravels the truth, even after being taken off the case. Bean Fate is a riveting tale of intrigue, crime and the quest for justice. Purchase: Bean Fate: Based on a True Crime

Chimwemwe Undi [BA(Adv)/16, JD/20] (Major: Linguistics)–“Auto-epithalamium” and “Epithalamium Ending in Death” included in Canthius 10

For lovers of evocative poetry, the works of Chimwemwe Undi, Winnipeg’s Poet Laureate for 2023-24 and a lawyer with TDS Law in Winnipeg, are a great choice. Her poems “Auto-epithalamium” and “Epithalamium Ending in Death” explore the intersection of love and climate grief, offering profound insights into human emotions and the impact of climate change. These poems celebrate love’s joy and simultaneously address the challenges posed by climate uncertainties in relationships. Undi’s unique storytelling and spoken word traditions will leave you moved and deeply connected to her words. You can read her poems in the 10^th issue of feminist literary periodical Canthius. Also watch for Undi’s debut collection, Scientific Marvel, coming to print in April 2024. Purchase: Canthius 10

Whether you’re basking under the sun or seeking solace in the shade, these books will be your perfect summer companions, offering unforgettable journeys through captivating stories and thought-provoking poetry.