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Dear students,
With the rush of the first days of Fall Term behind us, I wanted to take this opportunity to check in and remind you of the resources and supports available to you at the University of Manitoba. They have been adapted to our current circumstances with your personal and academic success in mind. Read more about them here<https://news.umanitoba.ca/start-the-year-off-on-the-right-foot-um-student-s…> and below.
Indigenous students can access a number of services, resources and programming at the Indigenous Student Centre, where student advisors <https://umanitoba.ca/indigenous/our-team#indigenous-student-centre-advisors> can help you achieve your personal and academic goals. Learn more about Indigenous student programming at UM<https://umanitoba.ca/indigenous/student-experience>.
The Student Accessibility Services (SAS) team has announced that grants up to $4000 are available for students with disabilities through Manitoba Student Aid. Please call or email us to talk about supports, services and grant options<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/accessibility>. We are here for you!
The International Centre provides international students with a variety of services and resources<https://umanitoba.ca/current-students/international> including an event series for new international students on culture and connection that spans the Fall Term.
As members of the University of Manitoba community, we all have the right to feel safe and accepted. We also have a responsibility to act with integrity, to be accountable, and to demonstrate respectful behaviour, online or in person. View this video<https://youtu.be/V3MqC-1Hro8> from students, staff and faculty that affirm the values of the UM community and check out this website<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/respectful-conduct> for information including where to go for help.
The Food Bank remains closed to in-person visits however, it is offering contactless delivery from our partner, Food Fare Winnipeg. To be eligible, students must be enrolled (full or part-time) in the current academic term. If you are in need of a hamper, please see the following link for full details and how to place your order: https://umanitoba.ca/financial-aid-and-awards/u-m-food-bank
Every year, the University of Manitoba offers over $6 million in bursaries to both new and continuing full-time and part-time students who have a demonstrated financial need and a minimum academic standing. Eligibility criteria and application requirements vary by award. Most require that you submit the UM General Bursary application, and some require additional forms or attachments. Please be sure to read the details of each bursary carefully before applying. Full details and how to apply, can be found at: https://umanitoba.ca/financial-aid-and-awards/bursaries
Keeping our community safe - COVID-19 vaccine verification and asymptomatic testing
You will have received an email from our Safe Return email address that outlines how to provide proof of your full vaccination. Thank you to the thousands of students who have already done this! Even if you are not planning to attend campus this Fall Term, it's critical that you provide us with this information to help us better plan for a full return to campus.
The same email message announced that we are now requiring all students and employees who are not yet fully vaccinated to undergo COVID-19 asymptomatic rapid testing prior to participating in any activity on campus.
* On Fort Garry campus, the testing site is in rooms 303 and 304 of the Fitzgerald Building between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday to Friday.
* Test results will be valid for 72 hours or 48 hours for anyone accessing a Rady Faculty of Health Sciences building.
For details on vaccine verification and rapid testing, visit the UM vaccine info website<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/vaccine-information>.
New tools for UM
You may be asked by your instructors to access Yuja Video, UM's new video platform that allows you to securely create, manage, discover, collaborate and view live stream video content across any device. It is available as a menu option under the "Integrations" heading in UM Learn<https://universityofmanitoba.desire2learn.com/d2l/login>. Get started today<https://umanitoba.yuja.com/V/Watch?v=378194&node=1394159&a=971222621>.
Earlier this year the Virtual Advising Help Centre<https://umanitoba.ca/virtual-advising-help-centre> (VAHC) opened and is available in the evenings and on weekends, too. The friendly team of students at VAHC can help answer your questions about life at UM including those you may have about your academic progress and more. Check it out!
Learn, reflect, connect and celebrate at upcoming events
UM will be closed to recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30. I encourage you to take part in one of the many opportunities<https://news.umanitoba.ca/exploring-national-day-for-truth-and-reconciliati…> hosted by the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation and the UM community to listen, learn and reflect on this important day.
Connect with your UM community at Homecoming<https://umanitoba.ca/community/alumni/homecoming>. This annual celebration includes many events where you can learn new skills, meet people, and have fun. Check out virtual Trivia Night, attend a Bisons football game for free, sign up for a job search webinar and more.
For those who are graduating this Fall, be sure to fill out your virtual Convocation<https://news.umanitoba.ca/virtual-fall-convocation-offers-chance-to-celebra…> slide by noon on Monday, September 27 to be included in the ceremony. With the event being virtual, graduates, their families and friends can join the celebration whether they are here in Winnipeg or afar.
I'll be in touch soon with more updates, information and resources to help you make the most of your time as a student at UM. Until then...
All my best,
Laurie
Laurie M. Schnarr, MA (she/her)
Vice-Provost (Students)
Office of the Provost and Vice-President (Academic)
University of Manitoba
208 Administration Building
Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2
Tel: 204.474.6919
Confidential Assistant - Marci Davies Marci.Davies(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:Marcia.Davies@umanitoba.ca>: 204.474.6917
Student Affairs: Creating opportunities for student success!
The University of Manitoba campuses are located on original lands of the Anishinaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, and Dene peoples, and on the homeland of the Métis Nation.
Confidentiality notice: This message and any attachments to it are intended for the addressee only and may contain legally privileged or confidential information. Any unauthorized use, disclosure, distribution, or copying is strictly prohibited. Please notify the sender if you have received this email by mistake, and please delete it and the attachments (and all copies) in a secure manner.
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UM SAFE RETURN UPDATE
Last week<https://news.umanitoba.ca/proof-of-vaccination-process-rolls-out/>, we launched the process for employees and students to provide proof of full vaccination and the response rate has been tremendous.
On September 14th, the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences implemented asymptomatic testing protocols for all individuals accessing the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences including all buildings on the Bannatyne campus and the Helen Glass building on the Fort Garry campus. Today, we are announcing the implementation of asymptomatic testing for the Fort Garry campus.
Effective September 22, 2021, employees and students who are not fully vaccinated are required to undergo COVID-19 asymptomatic rapid testing prior to participating in any activity on campus. These individuals must attend the Fort Garry campus rapid testing site located in the Fitzgerald Building at 55 Chancellor's Circle (rooms 303 and 304). The hours of operation are 7am to 3pm Monday to Friday. Test results will be valid for 72 hours (note that testing is required every 48 hours to access Rady Faculty of Health Sciences buildings). Those individuals who are not fully vaccinated and who expect to be on campus after hours should visit the testing site during its hours of operation to either be tested or to pick-up a testing kit for self-testing at home with an obligation to report results to UofMrapidtesting(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:UofMrapidtesting@umanitoba.ca>.
Specific details about rapid testing and vaccine verification can be found on the UM vaccine information page<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/vaccine-information>.
One of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself and others from COVID-19 is to get vaccinated. Upload your proof of vaccination on UM's secure site<https://covid-declaration.umanitoba.ca/>. If you haven't been fully vaccinated yet, visit the province's vaccine page<https://protectmb.ca/> today for information on making arrangements to be vaccinated.
Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.
Sincerely,
Dr. Todd Mondor
Chair, COVID-19 Recovery Steering Committee
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Message from Dr. Michael Benarroch, President and Vice-Chancellor
Homecoming reminds us we are part of something greater.
Next week, the University of Manitoba is hosting Homecoming 2021<https://umanitoba.ca/community/alumni/homecoming>, a time for our alumni and university community to come together in celebration of being a part of something greater.
This will be my first Homecoming since becoming president in July 2020, and I am incredibly proud of the slate of events that have been developed to highlight the talents of not just alumni, but also our students, researchers, faculty and staff who make our university community so rich.
There's something for everyone at Homecoming 2021, although the celebrations and events look a bit different this year in the interest of health and safety.
University-wide events include Indigenous Homecoming, our traditional Homecoming Concert, and a fun Trivia Night to test your knowledge and memories. Even if you are not a UM alum, you are more than welcome to participate in these meaningful celebrations.
I am sincerely looking forward to hosting an in-depth discussion on how the world is moving from pandemic to endemic. Joining me for this discussion are incredible alumni and thought leaders:
* Dr. Marcia Anderson [MD/02], Vice Dean, Indigenous Health, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, and Manitoba's public health lead for the First Nations pandemic response co-ordination team;
* Dodie Jordaan [BA/09], Executive Director of Ka Ni Kanichihik and Board Chair at Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre;
* Dr. Joss Reimer [MD/08, MPH/13], Medical Lead for Manitoba's Vaccine Implementation Task Force & Medical Director, Population and Public Health, Winnipeg Regional Health Authority; and
* Dr. Jo Ann Unger [MA/04, PhD/12], Clinical Director, Kidthink Children's Mental Health Centre and President, Manitoba Psychological Society.
Register to watch our discussion online<https://umanitoba.ca/community/alumni/homecoming#university-wide-events>. Attendees will be invited to submit questions and comments for the panelists live through the virtual event platform. To send your questions in advance, email alumni(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:alumni@umanitoba.ca>.
And finally - with vaccinated players, coaches and fans - we are thrilled to be able to host the Bisons home opener football game. On September 25th at 2 p.m., our UM Bisons take on the Regina Rams in what will be a thrilling matchup between two Canadian university football powerhouses. I will be there for the opening coin toss and to cheer on the team with everyone in the stands. Tickets are free for alumni, students and staff<https://gobisons.ca/sports/2021/9/7/homecoming-football.aspx?id=250> and the first 250 people to arrive will receive a free hotdog and beverage. Gameday is hosted by Ace Burpee with an exciting half-time show, including a hip-hop battle, the Bomber Cheer and Dance teams, and feature performance by Winnipeg's hottest indie rock band, Deep Dark Cave. Come and show your UM pride!
And above all, stay safe and enjoy Homecoming 2021!
To view the full slate of events, and to register, please visit Homecoming 2021<https://umanitoba.ca/community/alumni/homecoming>.
Sincerely,
[Text, letter Description automatically generated]
Michael Benarroch, Ph.D.
President and Vice-Chancellor
202 Administration Building, University of Manitoba
Winnipeg MB R3T 2N2 Canada
Telephone: 204-474-9345
Email: president(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:president@umanitoba.ca>
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Message from
Dr. Todd Mondor, Chair, COVID-19 Recovery Steering Committee
September 14, 2021
As President Benarroch noted earlier today in his email, the University of Manitoba remains committed to the health and safety of our community and, as a result, new measures will be introduced over the Fall Term.
With thanks to Naomi Andrew, Vice-President (Administration) and her team, today, we are introducing the first step in this process and asking all UM employees and students to immediately upload proof of full vaccination to our secure website<https://covid-declaration.umanitoba.ca/>. Employees and students are required to upload their proof of vaccination whether they intend to be working or learning on or off campus during the term.
Individuals have until November 14th to upload proof of full immunization. All individuals who do not submit such proof will be considered unvaccinated.
Proof can be a photograph of your Manitoba Health QR code, your vaccination card, or your vaccination record<https://www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/vaccine/immunizationrecord/index.html>. Unless we see a change to public health requirements, you should only need to upload your vaccination proof once during the 2021-2022 academic year.
Your vaccination status is being verified under the authority of The University of Manitoba Act and will be used for the purpose of addressing the ongoing health and safety risks posed by COVID-19. We have taken all necessary steps to ensure we protect your privacy. Other than your name, the QR code contains no personal health information or data. Please visit our COVID-19 vaccination information page<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/vaccine-information> for more details.
We expect to have a procedure established within the next few weeks to support rapid asymptomatic testing of all those accessing a UM campus who have not provided verification of full immunization. Additional restrictions may also apply to these individuals. Details on the UM rapid asymptomatic testing program, and on the process for requesting an exemption from the mandatory vaccination requirement will be coming out very shortly.
Owing to its connection to the health care system, an asymptomatic testing protocol will be implemented immediately (September 14) for all individuals accessing the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, including all buildings on the Bannatyne campus and the Helen Glass Building on the Fort Garry campus. Individuals will have their vaccination status visually verified at approved access points. Those unable to provide proof of full immunization will receive an on-site rapid test.
A rapid testing program will be operational soon for the Fort Garry Campus and other satellite campuses with details announced once the approach is finalized.
Thank you for your cooperation and for your commitment to supporting the health and safety of our entire University of Manitoba community.
Sincerely,
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Dr. Todd Mondor
Chair, COVID-19 Recovery Steering Committee
Deputy Provost
University of Manitoba
This email and/or any documents in this transmission is intended for the addressee(s) only and may contain legally privileged or confidential information. Any unauthorized use, disclosure, distribution, copying or dissemination is strictly prohibited. If you receive this transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately and return the original.
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Message from Dr. Michael Benarroch, President and Vice-Chancellor
To our UM community,
Welcome everyone to the beginning of another academic year. The leaves on campus are just beginning to turn their autumn colours, and more people have returned to enjoy it. Though I see more masks than smiles these days, I am still encouraged by the increase of students on-campus and I know that cautious is the right approach as we resume more in-person activity.
I feel the mix of hope and hesitancy as we wait to see what this fourth wave will bring. The delta variant is of great concern and we are asking everyone to exercise caution and to be flexible regarding our phased-in return. We are led by science and safety, and not by targets or our best-laid plans.
And the science is telling us that, even as we look at the delta variant and growing case numbers, we continue to see remarkable evidence of the effectiveness of vaccines. That is why UM is requiring all employees and students to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before returning to campus. The COVID-19 Recovery Steering Committee (CRSC) has been diligently working to consider input from across UM and develop the most effective and efficient tools to support this vaccine mandate and the health and safety of our community.
I know how important it is to our community that we get this right; we need meaningful enforcement and processes that work for our institution's unique needs. The President's Executive Team has carefully reviewed the CRSC's recommendations, and we have asked the steering committee to communicate operational details as they are confirmed and ready to roll out. Please watch for an important update later today regarding proof of vaccination and testing.
Thank you again for your commitment to ensuring everyone's safety, and for your enduring patience in such uncertain times. We have clearly demonstrated that, working together, we can rise above the challenges of this pandemic and support the mission and vision of Manitoba's research university. I know, whatever comes, we have a great year of learning and discovery ahead.
Sincerely,
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Michael Benarroch, Ph.D.
President and Vice-Chancellor
202 Administration Building, University of Manitoba
Winnipeg MB R3T 2N2 Canada
Telephone: 204-474-9345
Email: president(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:president@umanitoba.ca>
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Dear Students,
Welcome to the first day of Fall Term! Whether you're new to the University of Manitoba, coming to campus for the first time, or a returning student, I wish you the very best as you embark upon a new academic year.
Throughout the term, I'll be sending you emails regularly to keep you up to date on information that affects students, and to highlight various resources that I hope you will find helpful. Today, I'm sharing important details on UM's COVID protocols, university services, resources for new students, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, and strategies for staying connected.
COVID-19 Protocols
All UM students, faculty, staff and campus visitors must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/vaccine-information>. Individuals over age 12 are required to have their first dose by September 22, 2021 and their second dose by the end of October 2021. The University is holding vaccine clinics on campus<https://news.umanitoba.ca/um-vaccination-clinic-book-your-appointment-now/>, but you can also book a vaccine appointment directly through Shared Health<https://protectmb.ca/> or with the University Health Service<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/health-wellness/university-health-ser…> on the Fort Garry campus.
When you come to campus, you'll need to wear a 3-ply mask and maintain physical distancing. The pandemic is ever-changing, so I encourage you to regularly check UM's COVID-19 website<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/students> to learn what is required of you as a student.
We were pleased to learn last week that international students are now eligible to receive a Manitoba immunization card. Further details on the number to call to receive a card can be found here<https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/immunizationrecord/residents.html>.
Navigating the University
During the Fall Term most programs, services and supports will continue to be delivered remotely. To find out how you can access the libraries, study spaces, and food and beverage services, visit this webpage<https://news.umanitoba.ca/whats-open-on-both-campuses/>.
If you are on campus during September 8-10, stop by UM Commons: Live in the Quad (look for the signs) and say "Hi!". Students, faculty and staff from Student Affairs and other units will be on hand to answer questions, provide tours of campus and other helpful information.
Planning to park on campus? There are a variety of permits available<https://news.umanitoba.ca/fall-term-student-parking-permits-on-sale-new-fle…> to suit your needs, whether you are on campus regularly, occasionally or on a flex schedule.
Take in a Bisons game or visit our campus fitness facilities - it's a great way to meet new people and stay healthy. Students have access to these facilities and all Bisons home games<https://gobisons.ca/index.aspx> through the Sport and Rec Fee<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/um-sport-and-recreation-fac…> applied to your tuition . This fee was approved by the student body several years ago and was instrumental in building the state-of-the-art facilities students enjoy today. Check out the Recreation Services<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services> website to book workout appointments and learn other important information. Remember that proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required in all recreation facilities, as per public health restrictions<https://www.manitoba.ca/covid19/prs/index.html#provinciallevel>.
Have questions and not sure who to ask? Visit the Virtual Advising Help Centre<https://umanitoba.ca/virtual-advising-help-centre>. Our team of Student Service Navigators are available seven days a week to help you find the answers you need or direct you to the right resources.
New to UM?
Check out the online hub UM Commons<https://umanitoba.ca/current-students/um-commons>. It is filled with important information and resources to help you get ready for university study, thrive, and excel!
International students are encouraged to check out the supports and services provided by the International Centre. Visit the IC's website<https://umanitoba.ca/international> for events and programming opportunities, including, for example, the Culture and Connection series<https://umanitoba.ca/current-students/international#getting-settled> for students new to UM and Winnipeg.
Students with disabilities who are seeking accommodations, and haven't yet contacted Student Accessibility Services<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/accessibility>, are encouraged to do so as soon as possible. Arranging academic accommodations and supports takes time and we want to set you up for success.
Indigenous students will find a circle of support including staff, faculty and Elders who will help to make your university experience beneficial, accessible and successful. Visit here<https://umanitoba.ca/indigenous/student-experience> for more information. Connect with and build community<https://umanitoba.ca/indigenous/student-experience#get-involved> by joining a campus group.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
The University of Manitoba campuses are located on Treaty 1 Territory, the original lands of Anishinaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota and Dene peoples, and on the homeland of the Métis Nation. In the spirit of reconciliation, UM will be closed on September 30th, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation<https://news.umanitoba.ca/um-will-recognize-the-national-day-for-truth-and-…>. On this important day of learning and reflection, I encourage you to take part in the many events and activities hosted by the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation and members of our local community. More details will be shared here<https://nctr.ca/education/trw/general-public-schedule/> as they become available.
Stay Connected
Every week, you'll receive UM's student e-newsletter Student Weekly<https://umanitoba.ca/student/weekly/>. It is the easiest way to get all the key information you need, like deadlines, events, scholarships, student supports and opportunities.
You can also follow @umstudent on Instagram. From Q & As with Academic Advisors to takeovers on yoga and meditation, this account is a key resource for students.
Whether you are learning remotely or attending some in-person classes, I wish you all good things as you pursue your studies. The path back to UM has begun and we are all excited to see you on our campuses soon!
All my best,
Laurie Schnarr
Laurie M. Schnarr, MA (she/her)
Vice-Provost (Students)
Office of the Provost and Vice-President (Academic)
University of Manitoba
208 Administration Building
Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2
Tel: 204.474.6919
Confidential Assistant - Marci Davies Marci.Davies(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:Marcia.Davies@umanitoba.ca>: 204.474.6917
Student Affairs: Creating opportunities for student success!
The University of Manitoba campuses are located on original lands of the Anishinaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, and Dene peoples, and on the homeland of the Métis Nation.
Confidentiality notice: This message and any attachments to it are intended for the addressee only and may contain legally privileged or confidential information. Any unauthorized use, disclosure, distribution, or copying is strictly prohibited. Please notify the sender if you have received this email by mistake, and please delete it and the attachments (and all copies) in a secure manner.
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