- all-students - University of Manitoba Mailing Lists

Message from the President and Vice-Presidents on UMFA bargaining
by University of Manitoba 30 Oct '20

30 Oct '20

As today’s news of code red status for Winnipeg and code orange for the rest of Manitoba reminds us, we are living through extraordinarily challenging times. First, we thank our entire community for pulling together and working in new ways to help our students succeed. As the administrators appointed to lead the University of Manitoba and sustain its long-term operations, we understand and appreciate the remarkable flexibility and accommodation shown by the entire university community in response to the global pandemic, in particular by the students and the faculty and staff, as we have moved to primarily remote academic program delivery. We thank you, and we reiterate our commitment to supporting student success. Members of our university community are understandably concerned this week about the collective bargaining negotiations between the University of Manitoba and the University of Manitoba Faculty Association (UMFA) that have not yet reached a positive outcome. We cannot speak about the specifics of the bargaining because we are committed to a fair bargaining process, but we want to assure you that our focus remains on reaching an agreement, at the bargaining table. Our priority is doing what we can to prevent any further disruption to students’ lives. We have met with UMFA eight times since August 20 and are ready to return to the table at any time. August 20 was the date both parties agreed to begin these discussions. These discussions are what is termed a “salary re-opener,” with the main matter to be resolved being UMFA salaries for one year, as the University and UMFA agreed to do four years ago. The collective bargaining agreement with UMFA expires on March 31, 2021, at which time we will need to begin bargaining for a new agreement. We continue to believe the best course of action is to continue our discussions with UMFA. The impacts of the global pandemic and other factors have altered our current reality and imposed unique constrictions this year. The University remains committed ultimately to bringing UMFA salaries more in line with salaries at peer universities. At this time, with so many external pressures on all of us, most especially students, their health and well-being remain are utmost concern. We remind everyone to adhere to the guidelines shared with us by public health officials. Stay healthy. Laurie Schnarr, vice-provost, students, will be communicating with students later today with further information related to student supports during this time. President and Vice-Chancellor, Michael Benarroch Provost and Vice-President (Academic), Janice Ristock Vice-President (External), John Kearsey Vice-President (Indigenous), Catherine Cook Vice-President (Research and International), Digvir Jayas Acting Vice-President (Administration), Naomi Andrews

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Update to UM Students: October 22, 2020
by Marcia Davies 22 Oct '20

22 Oct '20

[cid:image002.jpg@01D531AE.174C13F0] Greetings students, It's October, the snow is beginning to fall, and by now you have settled into your new academic routine. I wanted to take this opportunity to check in with you, to share some reminders of the resources that are available to support you academically and personally, and to provide you with some updates on the Winter Term, fees and student loans. October is also Student Success Month<http://umanitoba.ca/current-students/first-year/um-commons/student-success-…>. Throughout the month we are offering a range of events focusing on stress management, academic writing, research skills, cultural adaptation and identity, and career preparation. I encourage you to attend the sessions that would be most helpful to you. The schedule and details on how to register can be found here<http://umanitoba.ca/current-students/first-year/um-commons/student-success-…>. Mid-term exams are also upon us, and there are some important things you need to know. If you have been made aware that your exam will require installation and set-up of Repondus LockDown Browser or Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor, a resource is available for you. It is designed to help you complete a quick review of the fundamentals of academic integrity before learning how to download, install, and run Respondus LockDown Browser. You can also complete a practice exam (as many times as you wish) to become familiar with the setup of an exam with this e-proctoring software enabled. This UM Today article<https://news.umanitoba.ca/tips-for-online-mid-term-exams/> has information on how to download the software, and features some invaluable study tips, self-care strategies, and information on the resources available to you through the Academic Learning Centre<http://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/academic-supports/academic-learning>. You will also find information on how to navigate online exams<http://umanitoba.ca/registrar/final-exams/final-exam-supports-students> and troubleshoot if problems arise. Please take advantage of these resources if you need help. As previously announced, Winter Term will be delivered remotely, with the exception of a very small number of courses that require in-person delivery - similar to the Fall Term experience. The first day of classes is January 18th, 2021. For the full Winter Term schedule visit this website<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/students#classes-scheduling-convocation-an…>. Please note that the Winter course schedule and the registration system Aurora won't be available from November 2-17. During this time, updates will be made to the winter schedule and the preliminary summer term schedule will be uploaded. If you are required to come to campus, Security Services has launched a mobile campus safety app called UM Safe. UM Safe sends safety alerts and provides instant access to campus safety resources. It includes "Work Alone" and "FriendWalk" features, and a Mobile BlueLight safety feature similar to the stationary blue lights on our campuses. For more information about UM Safe, and how to download the app, please read the UM Today story<https://news.umanitoba.ca/mobile-safety-app-launched/>. Once again, the Sport and Rec Fee<http://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/um-sport-and-recreation-faci…> will be applied to all UM students' tuition at a reduced rate for the Winter Term. The rate will be reduced to 70 per cent of the standard Sport and Rec Fee and assessed at $62.92 for full-time students and $47.18 for part-time students. Full-time students are generally those with 60 per cent of a full course load, which equates to three courses. The partial assessment of the Sport and Rec Fee enables UM sport and recreation facilities and services to operate and safely support students through access to facilities and programming<http://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/membersh…> (on-site and online) that contribute to physical health, mental wellbeing and student success. After extensive consultation with students, UMSU has decided that there will not be a U-Pass program in the Winter 2021 term. It is currently expected to return in Fall 2021. However, if you are required to come to campus for in-person academic commitments, are experiencing financial hardship, and rely on Winnipeg Transit, you may qualify for UMSU's Transit Subsidy. This subsidy will cover the additional $78 charge for a post-secondary semester e-pass. Visit the UMSU website to learn more about eligibility requirements and how to apply<https://umsu.formstack.com/forms/transit_subsidy_form>. It is also important to note that UMSU's<https://umsu.ca/> Hardship Fund offers small grants and loans for students facing extenuating circumstances. The National Student Loan Service Centre (NSLSC) recently made changes to the student loans program to help students and grads manage during the COVID-19 pandemic. For example, if you were in repayment status during summer 2020, NSLSC ensured all payments stopped until September 30th. Repayments begin again this month - but if you are having trouble with your monthly payments, there are options for you to consider. Visit the NSLSC's YouTube channel<https://www.youtube.com/c/NationalStudentLoansServiceCentre> for more information. As you may have heard, the federal government has also released a free app, which I encourage you to download. The COVID Alert app<https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-diseas…> alerts you to possible COVID-19 exposures before symptoms appear, so that you can take care of yourself and protect your community. For more information about the app and how to download it, visit this website<https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-diseas…>. If you need to visit the campus for academic reasons, I would like to remind you that wearing a mask is mandatory on all UM campuses. This applies at all times when indoors, even when physical distancing is possible. The only exception is for very brief periods of time while you are eating or drinking and still physically distanced from others or if you are alone in an office and physical distanced from others. Students living in residence are asked to wear a face mask in all common areas. If you are exercising in the Active Living Centre or the Joe Doupe Recreation Centre, you may remove your mask as long as you maintain physical distancing from others. However, you must still wear a mask when entering and exiting the facilities and as you move from the locker room to the exercise floors and between stations. For more information on what you need to know before coming to campus, please review this website<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/students#what-to-know-before-you-come-to-c…> and these FAQs<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/students#frequently-asked-questions>. Remember, please stay home when you are feeling ill, if you are waiting for a COVID-19 test result or have tested positive for COVID-19, and let your professor or instructors know. If you test positive for COVID-19, please follow Manitoba Health directives and review this website<http://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/students#personal-support>. We are all part of the fight against COVID-19 and must work together to limit its spread. Wearing a mask correctly, proper hand hygiene, cough etiquette, maintaining physical distancing, and keeping your social bubble small are all things we can do to help prevent the spread of this virus. For more information, please review the guidelines outlined by Manitoba Health<https://www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/index.html>. I hope you have found this update helpful. Please continue to take advantage of the many resources and avenues of support<http://umanitoba.ca/student-supports> that are available to you during this remote learning period. Your success is our priority. Be well. Stay safe. You've got this Bisons! 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. [UMLogoSignature]

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Invitation to Participate in a Research Study: Cross-Canada Release of the Post-Secondary Student Stressors Index (PSSI)
by Jake Rose 13 Oct '20

13 Oct '20

Hello, My name is Jake Rose and I am the Research Assistant working on the project titled "Cross-Canada Release of the Post-Secondary Student Stressors Index (PSSI)". We have received confirmation from the REB regarding our study materials, and have been instructed that the next step is to send the materials to the all-students email. Please find attached the letter of information (LOI), the recruitment email document, and the survey that will be delivered to the UM students. The recruitment email document has both the subject line, and body of the email to be sent out to students. The LOI is to be attached to the recruitment email sent out to students. Please note that we will be delivering the survey at three time points throughout the school year. Before each time point, we will be sending you an updated recruitment email, as the survey links will be different. The three dates for survey delivery are: * October 13th, 2020 * January 11th, 2021 * March 15th, 2021 Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions at all, or require any more information. Have a great rest of your weekend! Kind regards, Jake Rose

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International Students Experiences
by Jonathan Worae 01 Oct '20

01 Oct '20

SURVEY REMINDER: Are you an international student studying at the University of Manitoba? My name is Jonathan Worae and I am a Graduate student at the department of Sociology and Criminology. My advisor is Dr. Jason Edgerton. I am conducting an MA thesis on the topic: A Descriptive Survey Study of International Students’ Experiences Studying at the University of Manitoba: Motivations, Challenges, Coping Strategies and Supports. If you have already completed this survey then thank you for your time, you can ignore this reminder. If you haven’t yet taken the survey please consider taking the time to fill it out —all answers are anonymous and it is hoped that the data collected will help improve international students’ university experiences in future. In this study, international students are invited to participate in an online survey that seeks to find out about their experiences studying at the University of Manitoba. Only international students studying at the University of Manitoba who are currently residing in Winnipeg, or have resided in Winnipeg at some point during their studies at U of M, are asked to participate. The link to this survey if you choose to participate, can be found here; https://cssrp.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_efcD1KxT3b12Pu5 The survey is estimated to take 10-15 minutes to complete. It can be done on a laptop, tablet or smart phone. The survey is designed in such a way that your name will not be asked. Your responses will be anonymous and used only for study purposes, aggregated data will be used in my Master’s thesis and possibly in academic journal articles. Also, an executive summary of the study will be prepared for the vice-provost office. Your participation is voluntary and you can choose to withdraw at any time or skip any question you do not want to answer. As the data will be anonymous (your responses cannot be linked to your name) we will not be able to withdraw your data after it has been submitted. Other information is available on the online survey. The study has been approved by PSREB (Psychology and Sociology Research Ethics Board) at the University of Manitoba. If you have any concerns or complaints about this project you may contact the Human Ethics Coordinator (HEC) at 204-474-7122 or at humanethics(a)umanitoba.ca. If you have questions about this study, kindly contact Jonathan Worae (principal investigator) on 204-333-6728 or email at woraej(a)myumanitoba.ca . Should you choose to participate and would like to see a summary of the preliminary results of the study, you can also email me at the above address. I will email send out the summary report to those who requested it by the beginning of December, 2020. Sincerely, Jonathan Worae, MA candidate. Department of Sociology and Criminology. University of Manitoba.

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Update on COVID-19 safety
by VP Admin 28 Sep '20

28 Sep '20

[cid:image001.png@01D6957D.BCA81130] Message from Naomi Andrew, Acting Vice-President (Administration) Mask wearing requirement at UM As communicated on UMToday<https://news.umanitoba.ca/masks-now-required-at-um/>, for the continued safety of our UM community, we have updated the mask wearing requirements on all UM campuses. The wearing of masks is now mandatory on UM campuses even when physical distancing is possible. The only exceptions are: * For short periods of time when someone is eating or drinking while physically distanced from others * If someone is alone in their office and physically distanced from others * During strenuous exercise in UM physical activity centres The Province of Manitoba has also announced that "Manitoba's public health officials will be elevating the #RestartMB Pandemic Response System level for the Winnipeg Metropolitan Region to Restricted (orange) effective Sept. 28, with new measures being put in place to help slow the spread of COVID-19". This includes the directive that "masks will be mandatory in all indoor public places in these communities". Distribution of cloth masks Faculty, staff and students will be given a reusable cloth mask that can be picked up as per below. Please note that due to limited quantities, no more than two masks per person are available. Fort Garry Campus: At the Fort Garry campus, students and staff may pick up their masks at the following locations: * Welcome Centre from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. M-F * Elizabeth Dafoe Library from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. M-F * Science and Technology Library from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. M-F Bannatyne Campus: Pick up locations and hours of operation are: * Brodie Centre main doors, 727 McDermot Avenue from 5:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. * Dentistry building, 780 Bannatyne Avenue from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. * Apotex side entrance, 750 McDermot Avenue from 6:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. * Rehab Sciences building, 771 McDermot Avenue from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. As health and safety is our overarching priority, strict protocols are being followed at these stations including plexiglass shields, hand sanitizing stations, signage and fencing to ensure directional consistency and socially distanced flow throughout. In order to avoid congestion, you should pick up your masks when you are coming to campus(es), and only if you are required to come to campus. Please do not make a special trip just to pick up a mask. Please view this video<https://youtu.be/gvLA--hGU70> to see how to properly wear a non-medical mask. Or visit the COVID-19 UM Recovery webpage<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/recovery> for more information. Maximum group sizes at UM As part of Manitoba's public health officials' elevation of the RestartMB Pandemic Response System level for the Winnipeg Metropolitan Region to Restricted (orange) effective Sept. 28: "All private and public gatherings will be restricted to 10 people both indoors and outdoors". However, as mandated by the Province, most existing orders and rules for educational institutions remain the same, including for the University of Manitoba. A restriction on gatherings of 10 or more does not impact in person classes or research labs but does apply to any public or private gatherings, events and meetings. The rules in place for UM physical activity centres remain unchanged. For more information for students, staff and faculty, visit the UM COVID-19 webpage<http://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus>.

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Message from Dr. Michael Benarroch, President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Manitoba
by President's Office 27 Sep '20

27 Sep '20

Good afternoon, I know that what you value most in these challenging times is certainty and stability, and so today we are sharing with all students, faculty, instructors and staff that the University of Manitoba's Winter Term 2021 will be delivered primarily remotely, with the exception of a small number of in-person courses, similar to your Fall Term experience. We made this decision as early as possible in order to enable you to plan the rest of your academic year accordingly. Circumstances surrounding COVID-19 could potentially change, but today, with our priority your safety, health and well-being, continuing with primarily remote delivery is the most prudent course of action. Over the course of my first three months as president, I have seen examples of innovation in teaching and operations that have impressed me deeply and reminded me of the resiliency and flexibility, the creativity and dedication, of our community. Staff from across the university have come together in record time to adapt programming to online delivery. This includes the creation of new and exciting platforms such as UM Commons for our new students on which we have seen tremendous participation from students. Amid so much "noise" and disruption, you are all making this - our core functions of teaching and learning, discovery and engagement - work remarkably well. Students, please know that everyone associated with the University of Manitoba is working hard to ensure your success. We want this year to be special for you - in positive ways, so that as you continue your studies or move into the professional world, you feel thoroughly prepared for what lies ahead. I want to thank and recognize our instructors and faculty members, who have demonstrated their commitment to students, and to continuing their research, scholarship, outreach and creative activities. Each of you has found ways to connect with students, to inspire and motivate, to engage. I also want to thank our staff who have worked tirelessly to ensure supports, resources, services and opportunities continue to be available to students, to maintain our campuses and in doing so showing your dedication to our students and to the work of the university. I speak on behalf of the entire University of Manitoba community, and many from whom I have heard in the larger community, when I say: Thank you, thank you very much. We will continue to update you with any developments. Please keep checking the COVID-19 website<file:///C:/Users/campbe00/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/3IEO1V8J/umanitoba.ca/coronavirus> for updated information. Megwetch, Michael 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> [cid:image003.png@01D694F3.E28921D0]

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International Students Experiences
by Jonathan Worae 21 Sep '20

21 Sep '20

Are you an international student studying at the University of Manitoba? My name is Jonathan Worae and I am a Graduate student at the department of Sociology and Criminology. My advisor is Dr. Jason Edgerton. I am conducting an MA thesis on the topic; A Descriptive Survey Study of International Students’ Experiences Studying at the University of Manitoba: Motivations, Challenges, Coping Strategies and Supports. In this study, international students are invited to participate in an online survey that seeks to find out the experiences of international students studying at the University of Manitoba. Your responses are very significant because they stand a chance to inform policies and frameworks on how to improve the well- being of international students in Canada, and at the University of Manitoba. Only international students studying at the University of Manitoba who are currently residing in Winnipeg, or have resided in Winnipeg at some point during their studies at U of M, are asked to participate. The link to this survey if you choose to participate, can be found here; https://cssrp.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_efcD1KxT3b12Pu5 The survey is estimated to take 10-15 minutes to complete. It can be done on a laptop, tablet or smart phone. The survey is designed in such a way that your name will not be asked. Your responses will be anonymous and used only for study purposes, aggregated data will be used in my Master’s thesis and possibly in academic journal articles. Also, an executive summary of the study will be prepared for the vice-provost office. Your participation is voluntary and you can choose to withdraw at any time or skip any question you do not want to answer. As the data will be anonymous (your responses cannot be linked to your name) we will not be able to withdraw your data after it has been submitted. Other information is available on the online survey. The study has been approved by PSREB (Psychology and Sociology Research Ethics Board) at the University of Manitoba. If you have any concerns or complaints about this project you may contact the Human Ethics Coordinator (HEC) at 204-474-7122 or at humanethics(a)umanitoba.ca. If you have questions about this study, kindly contact Jonathan Worae (principal investigator) on 204-333-6728 or email at woraej(a)myumanitoba.ca . Should you choose to participate and would like to see a summary of the preliminary results of the study, you can also email me at the above address. I will email send out the summary report to those who requested it by the beginning of December, 2020. Sincerely, Jonathan Worae, MA candidate. Department of Sociology and Criminology. University of Manitoba.

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Recreation Services Student Waiver/Agreement
by Rec Services 09 Sep '20

09 Sep '20

Dear students, In a continued effort to promote wellness and active living across our campuses, Recreation Services<http://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/membersh…> has been working hard behind the scenes to ensure we are meeting and exceeding government regulations through the ongoing and safe re-opening of our Sport and Recreation Facilities. >From September 8, UM students will have access to the Active Living Centre at the Fort Garry campus and the Joe Doupe Recreation Centre at the Bannatyne campus. NEW waiver/agreement - In order to book a workout or group fitness class online, you must first complete a Gym Waiver/Agreement that outlines the assumption of risk (including risk due to COVID-19), release of liability, waiver of claims and indemnity agreement. If you are 18 years of age or older, you will do this by logging in to your Aurora account<https://aurora.umanitoba.ca/banprod/twbkwbis.P_WWWLogin> and following the pathway outlined below: Enrollment & Academic Records > Declarations > Gym waiver/agreement If you are under 18 years of age, a parent or legal guardian must sign your Gym Waiver/Agreement. Please visit our website to download and print the form<http://umanitoba.ca/sites/default/files/2020-09/assumption-of-risk-release-…>. The fully completed form must be emailed to rec_services(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:rec_services@umanitoba.ca> to be processed. Once your completed Gym Waiver/Agreement has been received, either online (if over 18) or by email (if under 18), please allow at least two business days for Recreation Services to activate your account. Once your account has been activated you will be able to start booking your workouts online. Please note that in order to prepare for Fall Term, student gym access will not be available from September 1 to September 7. Booking your workouts - In order to maintain physical distance regulations and accommodate cleaning protocols, both the Active Living Centre and Joe Doupe Recreation Centre will be operating at limited capacity. All workouts will be available in 90-minute blocks and you will be able to book your spot up to two days in advance starting 7:00 AM on September 8th. Step 1: Make sure you have completed your waiver/agreement. Step 2: Login to our online registration system<https://sportandrec.umanitoba.ca/UOFM/public> using your U of M student email. **If you create a new account you will not be able to book workout times.** Step 3: Book your workout or group fitness class in advance online. Watch the tutorial video<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J9eraDGohRQ&feature=youtu.be> to learn how to book your workout or group fitness class. Statement of Inclusivity - At the University of Manitoba, we are committed to equity of access and opportunity for all members, UM students, faculty and staff. We welcome you to a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone—from all backgrounds and perspectives—is respected, valued, and can enjoy an exceptional experience. Please be reminded that the Sport and Recreation Facilities promote the UM’s respectful work and learning environment and that all users of our facilities are required to adhere to the Sport and Recreation Facilities Code of Conduct<http://umanitoba.ca/sites/default/files/2020-02/Facilities%20Code%20of%20Co…>. Breaches of this Code of Conduct may result in cancellation of facility use privileges. Mask policy: * Masks are required while waiting in lines, in the stairwells, while spotting, and whenever less than 6ft apart. * You must bring a mask up to the workout floor with you. * Masks will not be provided at the facility and entry to the building will be denied if you do not have a mask. * Working out in pairs, 'working in', sharing equipment - even if from the same household - is not permitted. These safety measures are in place to keep you and our staff safe. Beginning September 14, hours of operation will be: Monday - Friday 6:00a.m.-10:00p.m., Saturday and Sunday 8:00a.m.-8:00p.m. The Joyce Fromson Pool is scheduled to open in October, however gymnasiums are not available until further notice. For further details and information, please visit the Recreation Services website<http://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/membersh…>. We are looking forward to seeing you back and wish you the very best for the 2020-21 school year. Sincerely, Recreation Services University of Manitoba

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A Message from President Michael Benarroch regarding Scholar Strike Canada
by President's Office 08 Sep '20

08 Sep '20

The University of Manitoba is a community where we exchange ideas, where we shine a light on past actions and hard truths, and where we question established patterns. We do this work because it allows us to grow, both as individuals and as a community. Our community and our nation are now at a crossroads, and we must ask ourselves - how will we listen, how will we learn, and how will we grow? Canada's academic community has been invited to participate in Scholar Strike, planned for September 9 and 10. We intend to empower our community members to participate so that they can listen, learn, and grow. Participation in this action is voluntary, and the University supports its community members using this time in the way that will benefit them most. Participation can also take many forms. Some in the academic community will choose to directly participate in these two days of reflection and learning, while others will search for different ways to advocate for change, such as in-class exploration, deepened research, or joining online anti-racism sessions. Faculty and instructors who choose to participate in Scholar Strike are asked to communicate to students and to their Academic Administrator any changes to class schedules or academic obligations with as much advance notice as possible as per the Responsibilities of Academic Staff with Regard to Students Policy. I want to be clear - the University of Manitoba condemns all forms of racism. Anti-BIPOC racism (Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour) has no place on our campuses, in our curricula, or in our governance systems. Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion must form the bedrock of our institution, and indeed, all modern and accessible universities in Canada. The University is continuing to work on developing an action plan to address racism through the work of the Office of the Vice-President (Indigenous) and the President's Task Force on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. More information about Scholar Strike, including the key note address by journalist and activist Desmond Cole, and a Programme Schedule of cross-campus digital teach-ins can be found at https://scholarstrikecanada.ca/ . All are encouraged to participate in these important conversations. I understand that this is a difficult and uncertain time. If you need support, please reach out to the resources below. An important part of this moment is taking care of ourselves, and taking care of each other. Resources for Students Student Counselling Service https://umanitoba.ca/student/counselling/index.html On-campus and Community Crisis Services https://umanitoba.ca/student/counselling/students_in_crisis.html Resources for Faculty and Staff Employee and Family Assistance Program https://umanitoba.ca/admin/human_resources/staff_benefits/eap/EFAP.html Sincerely, Michael Benarroch, Ph.D., President and Vice-Chancellor [cid:image003.jpg@01D68610.A838ECF0] 202 Administration Building, University of Manitoba Winnipeg MB R3T 2N2 Canada Office: +1-204-474-9345<tel:%2B1-204-474-9345> FAX: +1-204-261-1318<tel:%2B1-204-261-1318> Email: president(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:president@umanitoba.ca>

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Welcome to the University of Manitoba!
by Marcia Davies 08 Sep '20

08 Sep '20

[cid:image002.jpg@01D531AE.174C13F0] Dear Students, Welcome to UM’s Fall Term 2020! I hope you are well and excited to begin the Fall term. Whether you are new to UM or returning to learning; an undergraduate or a graduate student; living in Manitoba or studying from another province, country or continent – welcome! Faculty, staff and fellow students have worked hard throughout the summer to prepare for your arrival. Everyone is committed to ensuring that you have an outstanding learning experience, and that the supports and services you need are available to you. Throughout this remote learning period it is more important than ever to remain connected – and to build new connections – with your classmates, students who share your interests, and those who can support you in achieving your goals. Join a student group<http://umanitoba.ca/current-students/first-year/um-commons/student-communit…>, become a mentor or a mentee,<http://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/get-involved/student-peer-mentoring-pr…> and participate in some of the new workshops<https://eventscalendar.umanitoba.ca/> that are available. Remember, all UM student services<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports> are open and available; if you need help with something, please reach out. I highly recommend that first-year students visit the new platform that was developed especially for you. It is called UM Commons<http://umanitoba.ca/current-students/first-year/um-commons> – an online hub with content that changes regularly so you have the most up-to-date information about workshops, activities, events, and resources throughout the academic year. And, if you missed the Welcome Ceremony<http://umanitoba.ca/current-students/first-year/um-commons/welcome-day> this morning, it was taped live and is now posted on the UM Commons site, featuring several inspirational messages from the UM community. Returning students are encouraged to register for the Learning Online course in UM Learn<https://universityofmanitoba.desire2learn.com/d2l/login>. It has been updated and is a great resource to help you brush up on your online learning skills. You can self-register<https://universityofmanitoba.desire2learn.com/d2l/le/content/6606/viewConte…> for this course in English or Mandarin. We have also moved the Student ID card application process online! For new students and anyone else in need of a new ID card, the process is straightforward. Once you have registered for courses, you can request an ID card through Aurora<https://aurora.umanitoba.ca/banprod/twbkwbis.P_GenMenu?name=homepage>. This ID card can be used to access many services and benefits<http://umanitoba.ca/registrar/photo-id> available to you. We know that many students have been affected financially by the pandemic. UM has negotiated a reduced rate for internet through Bell MTS. I encourage you to check it out<https://news.umanitoba.ca/um-students-get-more-affordable-rates-on-data-pla…>. From September 8, UM students will have access to the Active Living Centre at the Fort Garry campus and the Joe Doupe Recreation Centre at the Bannatyne campus, both operating at approximately 25 percent capacity and accommodating pre-booked workouts only. Visit the Recreation Services website<http://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/membersh…> to find out how to activate your account and pre-book your workouts. If you are required to attend in-person components of courses on one of our campuses, here are some important things to know: * Review the COVID-19 campus protocols<http://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/students#what-to-know-before-you-come-to-ca…> before you arrive. * All UM faculty, staff and students—as well as visitors, contractors and vendors— will be required to wear a face mask in all indoor common or shared spaces on campus, or where social distancing cannot be maintained. * UM will be providing masks to all students who are required on campus – for information on where to pick up your mask visit here<https://news.umanitoba.ca/latest-news-on-covid-19-campus-recovery/>. * If you are attending an in-person class and need somewhere to study, spaces have been identified on the Fort Garry campus<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/students#whats-open-on-campus>, including computer labs, and some open UM Libraries<https://news.umanitoba.ca/libraries-open-study-spaces-for-students/>. (Note that these links will continue to be updated throughout the Fall Term.) Please minimize your exposure on campus – go to your classes and study in designated spaces only. * For those commuting to campus, you can learn more about student parking for Fall Term 2020 here<http://umanitoba.ca/parking/student-parking>, and Winnipeg Transit times and safety protocols here<https://winnipegtransit.com/en/rider-guide/news/winnipeg-transit-response-t…>. For more information on what to except this Fall Term, along with regular updates, please visit http://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/students. It is also important to become familiar with resources<http://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/academic-supports/academic-learning/su…> to support you in learning remotely, and to review important policies, including understanding what to do if you are unable to meet your course requirements, term work or final exams. For example, students who are unable to meet a course requirement due to medical circumstances are currently not required to submit medical notes. However, you ARE required to contact your instructor and/or academic advisor<http://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/academic-supports/academic-advising> in your home faculty/college/school to inform of the missed work and to make arrangements for extensions, deferrals, or make-up assignments. Please visit here<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/students#personal-support> for the guidelines and additional information. While taking part in classes and groups online, it is important to remember that respectful conduct is expected in the virtual world too. View this video<https://youtu.be/RuY83g5lrBY> to hear about your rights and responsibilities and understand expectations for maintaining a climate of respect at the UM. Thank you for choosing the University of Manitoba. We are so glad that you are here! Whether learning remotely or attending classes in person, your academic success is our first priority. The year ahead will be filled with lots of opportunities to apply your learning in new and exciting ways, to engage in problem solving and critical thinking, and to wrestle with novel concepts and ideas. I continue to be inspired by your commitment, hard work, and resilience. You’ve got this Bisons! Let’s make it a great year – together! All my best, Laurie Schnarr Laurie M. Schnarr, MA Vice-Provost (Students) Student Affairs Office of the Provost and Vice-President (Academic) 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. [UMLogoSignature]

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