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Dear University of Manitoba Community,
Join us at this newly scheduled time and location for an update on the university's Indigenous-led engagement sessions<https://umanitoba.ca/indigenous/supporting-indigenous-consultation-working-…>, including nine recommendations that will inform the development of an Indigenous identity policy for UM.
Indigenous identity is complex, due to centuries of colonialism and racism. UM has been following a practice of honouring Indigenous self-declaration because it allows for an Indigenous-led process that may accept government-stated guidelines and is flexible to include Métis, First Nation, non-status or Inuit-specific ways of acknowledging our community members. However, as universities and other institutions continue to be challenged by cases of Indigenous identity fraud, we've recognized the need to review how we support the declaration of Indigenous identity.
Tuesday, May 9
2:30 - 4:00 p.m.
Marshall McLuhan Hall - Room 204, UMSU University Centre
This will be a hybrid event.
Registration is required. Please register here<https://forms.office.com/r/pDjnPFtgLD> and indicate if you'll be attending in-person or on Zoom. The deadline to register is Monday, May 8 at 12:00 p.m.
We hope to see you there.
This event is closed to media because we want to create a safe space for dialogue. For media inquiries following the event, please contact: Eleanor.Coopsammy(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:Eleanor.Coopsammy@umanitoba.ca>
by Office of the Vice-President Research and International
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This message is sent on behalf of Dr. B. Mario Pinto, Vice-President (Research and International)
And Dr. Annemieke Farenhorst, Associate Vice-President (Research)
Dear University of Manitoba Community,
We invite you to attend the next Community Engagement Session as we continue our Strategic Research Planning process to develop a collective vision for the future of UM research.
Based on your feedback, the Strategic Research Planning Committee has identified five thematic areas:
* Climate Action and Sustainability
* Food and Water Security
* Health and Well-Being
* Human Security and Equity
* Indigenous Research
In the fourth community engagement session, we will ask participants to discuss research impact, including how it should be measured beyond citation impact. For example, see NSERC's Forms of Contributions to Research<https://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/NSERC-CRSNG/Policies-Politiques/assessment_of…>, which have been informed by the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA<https://sfdora.org/>).
This session will allow for both in-person and virtual interactive small group discussions to address key questions.
Summaries from each group discussion will be shared with the larger group for an open conversation.
Event details below:
Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 at 10:00 am
Location: Marshall McLuhan Hall, Room 204, UMSU University Centre, 66 Chancellors Circle
This is a hybrid event, with both in-person and online options to attend. Please RSVP by May 1st by clicking here.<https://forms.office.com/r/iJqRGbtS2v>
If you plan to attend virtually, the Zoom link is: https://umanitoba.zoom.us/j/66182099680?pwd=TmpLVjMxMGZMUWR6KzBCbW9JRklPZz09
Please continue to visit the Strategic Research Planning page<https://umanitoba.sharepoint.com/sites/um-intranet-research-services/SitePa…> for updates on our progress.
We hope to see you there.
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Message from Dr. Michael Benarroch, President and Vice-Chancellor
Dear UM community,
The University of Manitoba's mandatory masking protocol will end when Summer Term begins on May 1. From that date forward, masking will be strongly encouraged, and UM will continue to supply masks as the university still recommends people use them, especially in indoor spaces that do not allow for distancing. This change will align UM with current public health practices across the province.
As we remove the masking mandate, individuals' risk assessments will vary and I ask everyone in this community to respect the decisions of others<https://umanitoba.ca/about-um/respectful-work-and-learning-environment-poli….>.
Throughout the pandemic, UM has been very mindful of the most vulnerable among us who carried (and continue to carry) more burden than the majority had to. This is why we are one of the last institutions in Canada to lift its mask mandate. This mandate helped keep our community safe while vaccines were rolled out, and while hospitals were under the greatest strain.
UM has also been assessing our HVAC systems and making improvements to support optimal air quality. Additional enhancements will continue into Fall 2023, and you can read more about them here<https://umanitoba.ca/covid-19/health-safety#indoor-air-quality-at-um>.
Thank you to everyone who has consistently prioritized public health by wearing a mask. I recognize it may not always be comfortable or convenient to do so, but I sincerely appreciate how committed this community is to keeping each other safe. Thank you to everyone for doing their part, and for sharing ideas and engaging with our COVID outreach and safety committees.
I'd like to also extend my gratitude to Security Services for taking on the additional duty of providing masks and helping support the mask mandate over the past three years.
All the best in the final week of term.
Thank you. Miigwetch.
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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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MESSAGE FROM DR. CATHERINE COOK, VICE-PRESIDENT (INDIGENOUS)
Dear University of Manitoba Community,
Indigenous identity is complex due to centuries of colonialism and racism. UM has followed a practice of honouring Indigenous self-declaration because it allows for an Indigenous-led process that may accept government-stated guidelines and is flexible to include Métis, First Nation, non-status or Inuit-specific ways of acknowledging our community members. However, as universities and other institutions continue to be challenged by cases of Indigenous identity fraud, we've recognized the need to review how we support the declaration of Indigenous identity.
Over the past year, the University hosted a series of Indigenous-led engagement sessions<https://umanitoba.ca/indigenous/supporting-indigenous-consultation-working-…> to determine how UM can support the declaration of Indigenous identity and prevent cases of Indigenous identity fraud.
On Tuesday, April 25, we will provide an update on the engagement process, including nine recommendations that will inform the development of an Indigenous identity policy for UM. This will be a hybrid event:
UM Community Update on Indigenous Identity Engagement Sessions
Tuesday, April 25, 2023
10 - 11:30 a.m.
Smart Park Innovation Hub<https://umanitoba.ca/facilities/sites/facilities/files/2021-06/smartpark-ma…> - Multi-Purpose Room 2, 100 Innovation Drive
The update will also be live-streamed on Zoom<https://umanitoba.zoom.us/j/64293641986?pwd=QU1Zek8vWFZoZEx6WFNNaUFZczgzdz09>.
If you're planning on attending in person, registration is required due to space limitations. Please register to attend in person.<https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=C92AT4wzTE6KFJBEaWL3uCV…>
We hope to see you there.
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Message from Laurie Schnarr, Vice-Provost (Students)
Dear students,
As the end of Winter Term approaches, I wanted to commend you on your efforts and wish you the best during the exam period. For ease of access, we have curated a list of UM resources<https://news.umanitoba.ca/tag/examsupport2023/> and supports<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/academic-supports> available to you and I encourage you to take advantage of them.
Looking forward and looking back...
April 22 is Earth Day<https://earthday.ca/> - an important opportunity for all of us to reflect on our individual and collective responsibility<https://umanitoba.ca/sustainability/sustainability-initiatives> to support sustainability<https://umanitoba.ca/sustainability/> efforts and to take action<https://umanitoba.ca/sustainability/get-involved>. Last month, a UM delegation<https://news.umanitoba.ca/um-delegation-to-attend-un-2023-water-conference-…> attended the UN 2023 Water Conference in New York, where water experts from around the world gathered with the common goal of building strong partnerships to address water challenges and achieve global sustainability targets. Our inter-disciplinary delegation of UM researchers was joined by two citizens from Carcross/Tagish First Nation and played a vital role in setting the agenda for global water governance and sustainability.
At the end of March, I was also thrilled to read about the important work being undertaken by a group of UM Engineering students<https://news.umanitoba.ca/um-cubesat-ready-for-lift-off/> whose UM Cube Satellite was selected by the Canadian Space Agency to travel to the International Space Station in June. The satellite will reach the space station later this summer and collect important information about how space conditions affect the composition of asteroids and the Moon. Well done!
This season the UM Bisons<https://gobisons.ca/> excelled on the field, court, track, ice, and in the water - wherever the competition took them. Teams, athletes and coaches were celebrated at the annual Brown and Gold Awards<https://gobisons.ca/sports/2021/4/14/brown-and-gold-awards.aspx> on April 1, and many were also recognized with conference and national-level awards. Congratulations to all - we are proud to be Bisons and look forward to cheering you on again in 23-24!
On March 30, twelve graduate students shared highlights of their innovative research through the Three Minute Thesis<https://umanitoba.ca/graduate-studies/student-experience/three-minute-thesi…> (3MT) competition, covering topics from sustainable farming methods to using virtual reality and artificial intelligence to treat dementia. The winner<https://news.umanitoba.ca/3mt-winner-is-full-of-heart/>, Keshav Alagarsamy, whose research focuses on Using personalized stem cell technology for heart regeneration, will move on to the Western Regional Competition on May 25. Good luck Keshav!
Upcoming:
Job search tips
Whether you are graduating and need advice to help with job searches or you're looking for work over the summer, we have resources for you! Check out these ten tips for new grads<https://news.umanitoba.ca/job-search-tips-for-new-grads/> or attend one of the many workshops offered through Career Services<https://www.umanitoba.ca/career-services/>. If you're looking for summer employment check out the UM Job boards in UMConnect<https://umconnect.umanitoba.ca/home/home.htm> or the general job boards<https://www.umanitoba.ca/career-services/employment-resources-students/job-…> and employer lists.
Spring and summer bursary applications
If you are looking for help covering costs while attending university this spring and summer, check out the Spring and Summer Term General Bursary<https://umanitoba.ca/financial-aid-and-awards/bursaries> application. Log into your Aurora account and access all the information you need to apply for this financial aid. Applications must be submitted by June 1, 2023.
Graduation Pow Wow
Mark your calendars for the annual UM Graduation Pow Wow<https://umanitoba.ca/indigenous/student-experience/annual-traditional-gradu…> on Saturday, May 6 at Investors Group Athletic Centre, 9:45 a.m. to 7 p.m. All Canadian Indigenous graduates (First Nations, Inuit, Métis) are invited to participate. We look forward to honouring you as you mark the successful completion of your programs.
International Students
If you are attending classes in the summer term, check in with the International Centre<https://umanitoba.ca/international> and take advantage of the programs and activities available throughout the summer months. New international students are encouraged to attend the International Welcome sessions designed specifically for you. International Student Welcome<https://umanitoba.ca/current-students/international/orientation> begins on May 2 in-person and registration is required. Register<https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=C92AT4wzTE6KFJBEaWL3uCp…> before April 26, 2023.
The very successful Summer Buddy Program<https://umanitoba.ca/international/intercultural-experience#summer-buddy-pr…> has been proven to help international students adjust to the university environment. The program matches you with experienced UM students who share their strategies for navigating campus and community life, offer insights regarding academic resources and supports, and provide helpful tips for making the most of your time here. Deadline to apply: April 24, 2023.
Volunteer opportunities:
The Graduation Pow Wow organizing committee is looking for volunteers. UM students will receive co-curricular record recognition for your time, provided you meet the minimum requirement of 10 hours (including a mandatory 1 hour training session). Sign up before April 14<https://umanitoba.ca/indigenous/form/pow_wow_volunteer_registration>.
Help out<https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=C92AT4wzTE6KFJBEaWL3uGN…> at Science Rendez-Vous, Saturday, May 13. This science and engineering festival welcomes thousands of visitors to campus, where they watch live shows and participate in dozens of hands-on science activities. We're excited to host this event in person once again and we need your help to make it a success.
Wishing you all the best during the next few weeks. Much luck as you complete your final assignments and tackle your exams. You've got this.
To those who are convocating in June - congratulations and I'll see you there! To those who are returning in the summer term, I'll look forward to seeing you on campus. And to those who are working, travelling and playing this summer, I'll see you when you return in September!
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
Confidential Assistant - Marci Davies Marci.Davies(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:Marcia.Davies@umanitoba.ca>:
Student Affairs - Leaders in cultivating exceptional student experiences
I acknowledge, with humility and gratitude, that 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. As a white settler of English and German descent I am committed to walking alongside my Indigenous colleagues, friends and neighbours and doing the work that is necessary to honour the truth, right the wrongs, and contribute to lasting positive change.
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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Dear Students,
As we continue to experience challenging weather conditions throughout the province, please note that the University is open and classes are proceeding as scheduled. Students who commute to campus from outside Winnipeg should monitor road conditions and watch for Manitoba Government and RCMP road advisories and not travel when it isn't safe or where roads are closed. Students commuting within Winnipeg should allow themselves extra time for driving or using Winnipeg Transit as delays are expected. Students who are unable to travel to campus for classes are reminded to contact your instructors to discuss your absence and to determine whether any alternate arrangements can be made.
Helpful links:
Road Conditions and Weather Reports
https://www.gov.mb.ca/mit/roadinfo/index.htmlhttps://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/newshttps://www.canada.ca/en/services/environment/weather/severeweather.html
University of Manitoba
https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/academic-supports/academic-advisinghttps://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/academic-supports/student-advocacy
Take care.
...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 - Leaders in cultivating exceptional student experiences
I acknowledge, with humility and gratitude, that 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. As a white settler of English and German descent I am committed to walking alongside Indigenous students, colleagues, friends and neighbours and doing the work that is necessary to honour the truth, right the wrongs, and contribute to lasting positive change.
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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