- all-students - University of Manitoba Mailing Lists

Update for UM Students: December 1, 2021
by Marcia Davies 01 Dec '21

01 Dec '21

[Graphical user interface Description automatically generated with low confidence] Message from Laurie Schnarr, Vice-Provost (Students) Dear students, Members of the Student Affairs team and I have heard from many of you during the past month and understand how challenging this time is. I wanted to take this opportunity to remind you of the many programs, services and supports that are currently available to support your mental health and well-being, and your academic success. Examples of remote group and workshop programming offered by the Student Counselling Centre<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/counselling-resources-students> (SCC) include: * Stress and Distress workshop * Mid-day Mindfulness Meditation * Communication and Conflict Resolution * Depression and Anxiety Management For further information, and to register, visit the Counselling Workshops and Groups<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/counselling-resources-students/worksh…> page. The SCC also offers individual counselling and will work with you to determine the best approach for you. Staying healthy and well means developing and maintaining a set of healthy habits that contribute toward your physical, social and mental well-being. Just a few small changes in your daily routine can have long-term effects on your overall health. UM's Health and Wellness Office can support you on your journey and has some great tips<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/health-wellness/building-healthy-habi…> and resources for self-directed improvement. I encourage you to check them out. All services offered at the Indigenous Student Centre<https://umanitoba.ca/indigenous/student-experience> (ISC) continue to be available virtually. ISC Elders, student advisors and staff are here for you. Weekly Sharing Circles<https://eventscalendar.umanitoba.ca/site/indigenous/event/sharing-circles-w…> are held for students on Thursdays and Student Counselling is also available by appointment on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons and Friday all day. If you have any questions or would like to book an appointment with an Elder, student advisor or counsellor, please contact isc(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:isc@umanitoba.ca> or 204.474.8850. All UM student supports are open to international students, and you can reach out for information and support specific to your personal situation through a private, confidential conversation with an International Student Advisor (ISA) at the International Centre. Make an appointment for a Zoom meeting by emailing international(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:international@umanitoba.ca> with your name and student number. Check out the full range of student support<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports#health-and-wellness> offerings, all of which are currently available until the December break. Financial supports - The UM Strike Relief Fund If you are experiencing unexpected financial hardship due to changes in the academic schedule resulting from the current labour disruption, consider applying to The UM Strike Relief Fund. These funds are limited and available for students who have unexpected expenses as a direct result of the strike, such as: · Additional housing costs due to the extension of the fall term · Additional housing costs due to a roommate leaving, resulting in a student having to pay extra rent · Loss of wages · Additional food costs over the holiday break due to the extension of the fall term · Unexpected childcare expenses due to the extension of the fall term · Unexpected flight arrangements/changes The program is available to undergraduate and graduate students, valued at $1,000 for full-time studies and $500 for part-time studies. Students must submit an online application form, which will be reviewed to determine whether applicants meet the eligibility criteria for the funds. Application forms will be available on Friday, December 3 in the Aurora Student Portal, and will close once funds are depleted. (More information will be updated on the Financial Aid and Awards site on December 3.) Academic supports For your continuing courses, the Fall Term exam period is December 11-23. Reach out to the Academic Learning Centre<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/academic-supports/academic-learning> to strengthen your study skills, get tips on time management, procrastination, or academic writing. Talk to an Academic Advisor<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/academic-supports/academic-advising> for help with your degree progression. Not sure which support you need? Contact the Virtual Advising Help Centre<https://umanitoba.ca/virtual-advising-help-centre> and our student navigators will point you in the right direction. Exam deferrals We know this is a concern for many of you right now. If you have questions, please reach out to the academic advising office<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/academic-supports/academic-advising> in your faculty, department or school. This page<https://umanitoba.ca/registrar/final-exams/conflicts-deferral> has more information on deferral options. Stay active this winter We live in a beautiful city and province, and there is lots to do outdoors this winter. As a relatively new Manitoban, I visit the Travel Manitoba<https://www.travelmanitoba.com/> site often to get new ideas about things to do and places to go. I particularly like the hiking and trails page<https://www.travelmanitoba.com/things-to-do/outdoor/hiking-trails/>, and the blog, which features 10 things to do every week. Check out this week's list<https://www.travelmanitoba.com/blog/10-things-to-do-in-manitoba-this-week-n…>. You can also get involved in Rec Services programs and clubs to maintain your fitness, improve your mental health and meet new people. UM students<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/members…> have access to sport and recreation facilities, casual rec services <https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/group-f…> and group fitness classes<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/group-f…> on both the Fort Garry and Bannatyne campuses. You can also participate in UM REC Clubs<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/rec-clu…>, Intramural Sports<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/registe…> and instructional programs<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/registe…> at an additional cost. Visit UM Recreation Services <https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services> for more info. I hope that the resources and supports I have featured in this update are helpful to you. Particularly during these challenging times, please remember that your university cares about you and is here to support you. As indicated in our recent update to the campus community, the University accepted the mediator's recommendation of binding arbitration and is working hard to get everyone back to their classes. I am thinking of all of you and sending you my best wishes. Warmly, 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: Creating opportunities for student success! 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. [UMLogoSignature]

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Status of the University of Manitoba / UMFA collective agreement negotiations
by University of Manitoba 26 Nov '21

26 Nov '21

Early this morning, the mediator advised the University of Manitoba and UMFA of his final recommendation to move all outstanding bargaining issues to binding interest arbitration. The university has agreed to accept the mediator’s recommendation. Read the mediator's recommendation here<https://umanitoba.ca/bargaining/sites/bargaining/files/2021-11/um-umfa-cont…>.

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UPDATE: Return to in-person classes, only fully vaccinated allowed on campus
by Marcia Davies 26 Nov '21

26 Nov '21

[Graphical user interface Description automatically generated with low confidence] Message from Laurie Schnarr, Vice-Provost (Students) Dear students, Thank you to the 26,000+ individuals - 81 per cent of the student population - who have already uploaded your proof of vaccination. We appreciate your commitment to the health and safety of our campus community by uploading your proof of vaccination by the November 14 deadline. I am so pleased that after nearly two years, we will be returning to in-person classes in Winter Term 2022, as so many of us have hoped for. To support this, I will reiterate that everyone must be fully vaccinated and upload their proof of vaccination to be on campus, commencing Winter Term 2022. Rapid testing alternatives will not be available to those who have chosen not to submit their proof of vaccination, unless they have received an approved exemption. To protect the safety of our UM community, all students who have not uploaded their proof of vaccination and who have not received an approved exemption will be identified and de-registered from in-person Winter Term courses. Vaccination appointments<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/vaccine-information> are available at University Health Service or on the province's website. If you are fully vaccinated and have not already done so, visit the vaccination registration site<https://covid-declaration.umanitoba.ca/> right away, to upload your proof of vaccination. If you have already uploaded your proof for the Fall term, you do not need to resubmit your proof of vaccination. For the remainder of Fall Term, anyone who has not uploaded proof of vaccination must participate in UM's rapid testing program<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/vaccine-information#if-you-have-not-been-v…> and have a negative COVID-19 test result before participating in on-campus activities. For more information, visit UM's COVID-19 website.<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus> If you have questions, please direct them to safereturn(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:safereturn@umanitoba.ca>. I recognize that these have been challenging times for you. I want to stress that the measures the university is taking underscore our fundamental commitment to the health and well-being of our campus community and to a safe return to the in-person experience that we all miss. I look forward to seeing you on campus in Winter Term! 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! 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. [UMLogoSignature]

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The University of Manitoba accepts Mediator’s recommendation for binding arbitration, UMFA does not
by University of Manitoba 21 Nov '21

21 Nov '21

This weekend, the mediator advised the parties of his view that there is no likelihood that the parties will reach a settlement of outstanding differences without a protracted strike continuing, and he recommended binding interest arbitration as the best path forward to end the strike and reach a fair collective agreement for UMFA members. The University of Manitoba accepted mediator Arne Peltz’ recommendation to move to binding arbitration to settle outstanding issues and end the strike. UMFA indicated that they are unwilling to accept the Mediator’s recommendation to refer all outstanding differences to arbitration. UMFA advised that they would meet to try to come up with a modified version of the recommendation and get back to the parties as soon as they have something.

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Academic Schedule scenario 3 and 4 changes
by Marcia Davies 19 Nov '21

19 Nov '21

[cid:image002.png@01D7DBC0.F022B850] Dear students, On November 17, Senate Executive on behalf of Senate, the academic governing body of the university, met and approved several motions related to the academic schedule as a result of the strike. As the strike continues, there will be significant changes required to the academic schedule to maintain the integrity of our courses and programs, and to ensure requirements for accreditation are met. The modifications to the academic schedule depend on the length of the strike. In all scenarios, there will be no classes or exams held during the University closure that is scheduled for December 24, 2021, through January 4, 2022. For details on all scenarios, including the previously announced scenarios 1 and 2, visit umanitoba.ca/strike-information<https://umanitoba.ca/strike-information/>. Academic schedule modifications Senate Executive approved two further potential scenarios. Scenario 3 [Return to teaching between November 24 and November 30]: * The last instructional day of fall term, December 10, 2021 remains unchanged for continuing classes. * Interrupted classes will have instructional days up until the start of the University closure on December 24, 2022. Classes will resume January 5, 2022, and the last instructional day will be January 12, 2022. * The voluntary withdrawal (VW) date will move to December 10, 2021 for all classes, continuing and interrupted. * The original exam period, December 11 to 23, 2021, will continue as is for continuing courses that are not disrupted by the strike. * All courses interrupted by the strike will have their exams rescheduled to occur during an alternate exam period: January 14 to 16, 2022, inclusive. * The final grade appeal deadline will be moved to February 4, 2022, for all classes, continuing and interrupted. * Winter Term 2022 as previously scheduled remains unchanged. Scenario 4 [Return to teaching between December 1 and December 7] The last instructional day of fall term, December 10, 2021 remains unchanged for continuing classes. * Interrupted classes will have instructional days up until the start of the University closure on December 24, 2022. Classes will resume January 5, 2022, and the last instructional day will be January 19, 2022. * The voluntary withdrawal (VW) date will move to December 10, 2021 for continuing classes, and December 21, 2021 for interrupted classes. * The original exam period, December 11 to 23, 2021, will continue as is for continuing courses that are not disrupted by the strike. * All courses interrupted by the strike will have their exams re-scheduled to occur during an alternate exam period: January 21 to 23, 2022, inclusive. * The final grade appeal deadline will be moved to February 11, 2022, for all classes, continuing and interrupted. * The start of Winter Term 2022 will be January 24, 2022, and the last instructional day would be April 20. * The Winter Term break (Reading Week) would be reduced from a four-day break (February 22-25) to a one-day break (February 22). * The winter term exam period (April 21-May 1, 2022) would proceed as scheduled to prevent delays in the start of the Summer Term 2022 and to minimize the impact on graduation and on admission and registration timelines for the Fall Term 2022. Note: To maintain the number of instructional days and instructional contact hours, it is necessary to capture additional days within the calendar. This was accomplished, in part, by reducing the winter term break (Reading Week) to an extended long weekend. This is not ideal, but the alternative of extending the end of the winter term further into May creates significant issues: it would jeopardize students' ability to graduate on time; it would impact students' ability to complete courses on time that are required to meet application deadlines for advanced entry, after degree, or graduate programs, including those at institutions other than UM; and it would impact summer employment commitments for students who rely on summer income to pay for their education. * The VW date would move to February 4, 2022 for fall/winter term spanned courses and to April 1, 2022 for winter term courses. Please note that slight modifications may be required for all scenarios. Full details about the academic schedule changes, including a detailed breakdown of the dates for all possible scenarios, and changes to deadlines for graduate students can be found here<https://umanitoba.ca/strike-information/faculty-and-staff-faq>. While the Voluntary Withdrawal date changes in both scenarios, it is not the only course of action for students looking to withdraw from a course. Students may also request an Authorized Withdrawal<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/academic-supports/student-advocacy/au…>. Please keep in mind that dates associated with the Scenario 2 version of the academic schedule<https://umanitoba.ca/strike-information/student-faq> are currently in effect and we are all hopeful that the strike will end as quickly as possible. Thank you for your patience and adaptability during this time. I encourage you to visit the strike website<https://umanitoba.ca/strike-information/> for answers to many frequently asked questions. For any other questions you may have related to the strike, please email strikeum(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:strikeum@umanitoba.ca>. 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. [UMLogoSignature]

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UM and UMFA meet to discuss cost of proposals and will resume mediation
by University of Manitoba 15 Nov '21

15 Nov '21

This message was sent to all University of Manitoba staff on Sunday, Nov. 14. On Saturday, a small group of University of Manitoba bargaining team members met with UMFA representatives to clarify the numbers and calculations that make up the university’s and UMFA’s monetary offers. UMFA confirmed that the university has calculated the actual cost of the proposals accurately, although there continues to be disagreement on how to report those numbers. The university and UMFA will be back at the bargaining table on Monday, Nov. 15 to continue mediation as they work on a new collective agreement. The university will also be tabling an updated monetary offer. Updates will continue to be provided via the bargaining website as soon as further information is available. Visit the Bargaining Information website<https://umanitoba.ca/bargaining/>.

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Urgent Nov. 14 deadline
by Safe Return 12 Nov '21

12 Nov '21

[cid:image001.png@01D7D7BD.F651B660] MESSAGE FROM THE COVID-19 RECOVERY STEERING COMMITTEE November 14 deadline to upload your proof of vaccination If you are one of the almost 27,000 people who have already uploaded your proof of vaccination, we thank you. If you are fully vaccinated and have not already done so, visit the vaccination registration site<https://covid-declaration.umanitoba.ca/> right away, to upload your proof of vaccination before this Sunday. This includes all staff who are working remotely, and students who are learning remotely. Effective November 15 and for the rest of the Fall Term, UM will be monitoring to ensure that employees and students have either submitted proof of vaccination or are attending UM's rapid testing site. Anyone who has not uploaded proof of vaccination must participate in UM's rapid testing program<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/vaccine-information#if-you-have-not-been-v…> and have a negative COVID-19 test result before participating in on-campus activities. Thank you for your attention to this crucial health and safety matter.

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Academic Schedule changes
by Marcia Davies 10 Nov '21

10 Nov '21

[cid:image002.jpg@01D531AE.174C13F0] Dear students, Earlier today, Senate Executive (on behalf of Senate, the governing body of the university), approved several motions related to potential impacts on the academic schedule as a result of the strike. During any labour disruption, the academic schedule is modified to maintain the integrity of courses and programs, and to ensure that requirements for accreditation are upheld. Modifications are made based on potential scenarios that reflect hypothetical strike durations. In the motions noted below, two scenarios were presented to Senate Executive with hypothetical strike end dates (Scenario 1: on or before November 15; Scenario 2: between November 16 to 23). In both scenarios the fall academic term remains intact and the winter term commences as planned. Academic calendar modifications Scenario 1 [Return to teaching on or before November 15]: * The last instructional day of fall term, December 10, 2021 remains unchanged for continuing classes. * The last instructional day of fall term for interrupted classes will be December 16, 2021. * The voluntary withdrawal date will move from November 23 to November 29, 2021 for all classes, continuing and interrupted. * The December exam period will still occur from December 11 to December 23, 2021; however, given the extension of the fall term for interrupted classes, a new exam schedule must be created. The new exam schedule includes dates on the weekends. This schedule will be complete and available to students by December 1, 2021 and will replace the current exam schedule that was made available to students at the end of October. Scenario 2 [Return to teaching between November 16 and November 23]: * The last instructional day of fall term, December 10, 2021 remains unchanged for continuing classes. * The last instructional day for fall term for interrupted classes will be December 23, 2021. * The voluntary withdrawal date will move from November 23 to December 7, 2021 for all classes, continuing and interrupted. * The original exam period, December 11 to 23, 2021, will continue as is for continuing courses that are not disrupted by the strike. * The dates of the alternate exam period will be January 6 to 9, 2022, inclusive. All courses interrupted by the strike will have their exams re-scheduled to occur during this alternate period. * The final grade appeal deadline will be moved from January 25, 2022, to January 28, 2022, for all classes, continuing and interrupted. *Slight modifications may be required for both scenarios. Full details about the academic calendar changes can be found here<https://umanitoba.ca/strike-information/student-faq>. What happens when the strike ends? Once an agreement has been reached and the strike has ended, things may move quickly. UM and UMFA will announce that a tentative agreement has been reached, subject to ratification, and that will include the date when courses will resume. Senate Executive also passed two motions intended to reduce any undue anxiety or hardship for students impacted by the strike: * No assignments will be due or exams held in interrupted courses within 72 hours of those courses resuming. This is to give students some time to complete assignments and to study. * Some students will have a combination of courses that continued throughout the strike, and courses with modified schedules because the instructor was on strike. Academic unit heads and academic staff shall ensure that students are not disadvantaged with respect to any missed classes, materials, assignments/tests when there is a scheduling conflict between a class and an exam. Please communicate directly with your instructors if you have a conflict. This uncertainty can be stressful - please know that UM's student support offices<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports> are open and more than happy to help during this time. Do not hesitate to reach out. There are also a variety of other resources being shared on our student Instagram account<https://www.instagram.com/umstudent/> including academic resources and health and wellness supports. If you have questions, visit the strike information website<https://umanitoba.ca/strike-information/>. If your questions are not answered there, please email strikeum(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:strikeum@umanitoba.ca> and we will help find you an answer. Thank you for your patience during this challenging time. I know we all look forward to putting this chapter behind us. Warmly, 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. [UMLogoSignature]

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COVID-19 vaccination enforcement update
by Safe Return 05 Nov '21

05 Nov '21

[cid:image001.png@01D7D253.BFC7CD60] MESSAGE FROM DIANE HIEBERT-MURPHY, PROVOST AND VICE-PRESIDENT (ACADEMIC) AND NAOMI ANDREW, VICE-PRESIDENT (ADMINISTRATION) COVID-19 vaccination enforcement update UM community members to upload proof of vaccination before Nov. 14 Thank you to the more than 24,000 people who have already uploaded your proof of vaccination. All proof of vaccination submissions have been reviewed and verified and you will be contacted if there are any concerns with your submission. If you are fully vaccinated and have not already done so, visit the vaccination registration site<https://covid-declaration.umanitoba.ca/> right away, regardless of your intention to be on campus. Anyone who has not uploaded proof of vaccination must participate in UM's rapid testing program<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/vaccine-information#if-you-have-not-been-v…> and have a negative COVID-19 test result before participating in on-campus activities. Effective November 15 and for the rest of the Fall Term, UM will be monitoring to ensure that employees and students have either submitted proof of vaccination or are attending the UM's rapid testing site. Vaccine mandate As part of UM's continued commitment to keeping our community safe, a full vaccine mandate will take effect in the new year at which point rapid testing will no longer be an approved alternative to vaccination. Further details will be communicated on this in the weeks ahead. Limited exemptions As previously communicated, UM will follow the province's process for medical exemptions. If you have received a medical exemption, you can upload your QR code on the proof of vaccination tool<https://covid-declaration.umanitoba.ca/>. The University has established a process to review requests for religious accommodation in accordance with provincial legislation. These exemptions will be limited to those prescribed by human rights legislation, and the form and details can be accessed on the COVID website<https://covid-declaration.umanitoba.ca/exemption-request/>. Anyone requesting a religious accommodation must submit the form by November 26, 2021. Thank you for your ongoing commitment to health and safety.

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Crossing Picket Lines
by Marcia Davies 05 Nov '21

05 Nov '21

[cid:image001.jpg@01D7D227.2D4BD160] Dear students, I want to provide you with some clarity around the process for declaring if you have decided not to cross picket lines. Choosing not to cross picket lines is your right. We have asked all instructors who are currently teaching to make reasonable accommodations if this is the case. Please note, if you make this choice, you are responsible for meeting course requirements for the courses that are continuing. If this is your intention, you must email your instructor as soon as you have decided not to cross the picket line, and inform them that you will not be attending your continuing course (whether in-person or virtual) for this reason. Your instructor will provide a confirmatory email back to you - declarations will not be accepted retroactively. Many courses are continuing during this time, and the list of continuing courses<https://umanitoba.ca/registrar/continuing-courses> changes often. Please be sure to monitor the list regularly. For more information on this or other updates related to the strike, please visit the UM's strike information webpage<https://umanitoba.ca/strike-information/>. Thinking of you and wishing you well, 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. [UMLogoSignature]

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UM Learn content update for all students
by Marcia Davies 03 Nov '21

03 Nov '21

[cid:image002.jpg@01D531AE.174C13F0] Dear students, I am happy to inform you that all courses on UM Learn have been activated. We heard from you that not being able to access all courses in UM Learn was an issue. We addressed this as quickly as possible to reduce any additional stress this caused you. If an instructor is on strike, you are not responsible for any course work, assignments or exams in that course during the strike period. Those classes will resume at the end of the strike. If your instructor returns to work before the end of the strike, you are responsible for any of your courses and relevant work, assignments or exams that are continuing. The list of continuing courses is being updated regularly, so please check the list<https://umanitoba.ca/registrar/continuing-courses> often. If you are being asked to complete work for a course in which the instructor is on strike, please connect with your faculty/school/college/department office<https://umanitoba.ca/academics#our-faculties-colleges-and-schools> or the Virtual Advising Help Centre.<https://umanitoba.ca/virtual-advising-help-centre> This is a challenging time. The Student Counselling Centre continues to operate during the faculty strike, albeit with reduced capacity, because some of their staff are participating in the UMFA strike. Individual counselling appointments continue to be offered by staff who are working and intake appointments are also available. I encourage you to reach out to UM's student support<https://news.umanitoba.ca/student-supports-and-resources-during-the-umfa-st…> offices if you need support. Please know that there are many people at the University who are ready and eager to help. If you have any questions, please visit the strike website<https://umanitoba.ca/strike-information/student-faq> where an extensive list of FAQs has been posted. If your question isn't there, please send it to strikeum(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:strikeum@umanitoba.ca> and we will get you an answer as quickly as possible. 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. [UMLogoSignature]

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Resources and information for students about the UMFA strike
by Marcia Davies 02 Nov '21

02 Nov '21

[cid:image002.jpg@01D531AE.174C13F0] Dear students: As you heard from President Michael Benarroch last night, joint efforts of the University of Manitoba and the University of Manitoba Faculty Association (UMFA) to reach an agreement by November 1st on terms for a new collective bargaining agreement have been unsuccessful. As a result, UMFA has commenced strike action beginning today, Tuesday, November 2nd. We realize this causes disruption for you. We will take every reasonable measure to support you through this time, including maintaining instruction for courses not being taught by UMFA members, and providing access to core services and resources. We will share as much information with you as possible as it becomes available - via email, website and our social media accounts. Answers to many of your questions, including those of you with specific circumstances, such as international or graduate students and students in your final year of study, can be found on this website<https://umanitoba.ca/strike-information/>. >From the website, you can also access a list of continuing courses<https://umanitoba.ca/registrar/continuing-courses> to see if your classes (in-person or remote delivery) are taking place. Remember that not all courses are taught by UMFA faculty members and not all UMFA members will necessarily strike. As a result, this page will change often as details are updated so please check back regularly. If a course is taught by an UMFA member who is on strike, your access to that course on UM Learn, and the associated learning materials, will be suspended. UM respects our faculty. They are important members of the campus community and core to the student experience and our academic mission. I understand this strike action is concerning and we want to remind you that supports<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports> are available. Please use these resources if you need to - your safety and well-being are our top priorities. The university is committed to reaching an agreement promptly to ensure your studies continue with as little disruption as possible. I will keep you updated as more information becomes available. 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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UMFA rejects UM's latest offer and moves to strike
by University of Manitoba 01 Nov '21

01 Nov '21

UM presented UMFA with a strong offer that included a two-year monetary proposal with both general salary increases across the board and changes to the salary structure that would increase salaries an average of 9.5% over two years and substantially increase lifetime earnings of members. UMFA has rejected the offer and indicated its intention to strike. UM and UMFA representatives began negotiating a new collective agreement on Aug. 5 – and after 18 meetings, both parties agreed to move to mediation. UMFA set a bargaining deadline and mediation ended today without an agreement. UM is willing to continue with mediation, however UMFA has indicated that it will proceed with a strike on Nov. 2. "We are disappointed that UMFA has rejected our offer and moved to strike," says President and Vice-Chancellor, Michael Benarroch. "We strongly believe it's a fair deal as it would allow us to recruit new faculty with more competitive offers, support faculty retention, and ensure faculty wages remain competitive with their U15 counterparts as they advance in their careers. We hope to be back at the table soon."  Throughout the negotiations, UMFA has continued to seek salary compensation from the university for what UMFA says was lost from 2016 to 2020. As part of a lawsuit against the government, UMFA is seeking damages for lost wages for that period and expenses from the 2016 strike. UM is not part of that litigation. The courts will hear UMFA's claim in November 2021 and decide on damages payable to UMFA by the government. UM does not believe it is appropriate for UMFA to seek this compensation from both the university and the government. "The university has bargained in good faith throughout the last few months and has tabled several offers, all in an attempt to reach an agreement," says Provost and Vice-President Academic, Diane Hiebert-Murphy. "Our latest offer is truly a strong offer that will provide meaningful increases to all UMFA members in the long term, as well as address recruitment and retention issues and provide for stability to the university community." Students and staff can find information pertaining to university operations on the strike website<https://umanitoba.ca/strike-information/> which will be updated daily throughout the labour disruption.   Read more on UM Today<https://news.umanitoba.ca/umfa-rejects-ums-latest-offer-and-moves-to-strike/>.

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Update for UM Students: October 27, 2021
by Marcia Davies 27 Oct '21

27 Oct '21

[cid:image002.jpg@01D531AE.174C13F0] Dear students: By now you will have heard that members of the University of Manitoba Faculty Association (UMFA) have voted for a strike mandate and set a strike date of November 2. This has been featured in news coverage over the weekend and it is understandable that you are wondering what impact this might have on you and your studies. Even with a date set, the vote does not mean a strike is certain. It means that union leaders have approval from their members to choose to strike if they are not satisfied with how negotiations are going. The university bargaining team, who are the people at the table negotiating with the association, is working to reach a new agreement and there is still an opportunity for that to happen. If there is a strike, or any other sort of labour action, the university will remain open. We will continue to keep you updated with emails and with posts on our social media accounts as negotiations continue. For current and past updates, and for general information, please visit our Bargaining Information web page<https://www.umanitoba.ca/bargaining/#bargaining-updates> under "Bargaining Updates." Again, I want to emphasize that your safety, health and well-being remain our top priorities. In this UM Today article<https://news.umanitoba.ca/stress-support/> you will find some detailed information about the supports and resources that are available to help you manage any pressures you may be experiencing, or if you just need a little help along the way. 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. [UMLogoSignature]

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Update for Students on UMFA Labour Negotiations: October 20, 2021
by Olga Kuznetsova 20 Oct '21

20 Oct '21

Dear Students, You have likely heard that the University of Manitoba Faculty Association (UMFA) has voted to give the union a strike mandate. Understandably, you will have questions about what this means for you. Please note, a strike mandate does not mean a strike will happen. Rather, a strike mandate means that the union leaders have the approval from its membership to choose to strike if they are dissatisfied with the progression of negotiations. The university bargaining team remains committed to working hard to reach a new agreement. In the meantime, please be assured that the university is continuing with normal operations – including all COVID-19 protocols – to ensure the health and safety of our students, staff and community. You can continue to join us on campus, as you have been this term, for your required classes, labs and other activities. We will share as much information with you as possible, as soon as it becomes available. Any updates affecting students will be communicated to you directly from me in emails such as this one. For current and past updates, and general information, please visit our Bargaining Information web<https://www.umanitoba.ca/bargaining/#bargaining-updates> page under “Bargaining Updates.” The university remains committed to your education and well-being. If you are experiencing difficulties, supports<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/resources-students#personal-supports-for-s…> are available to you. If you need help with academics<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/academic-supports/academic-advising>, your finances<https://umanitoba.ca/financial-aid-and-awards> or have health and wellness concerns, there are staff committed to providing student advocacy<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/academic-supports/student-advocacy/ca…>, supporting your emotional wellness<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/counselling-resources-emotional-welln…>, offering spiritual care<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/spiritual-services> and more<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports>. As our university president, Michael Benarroch, said in his message<https://news.umanitoba.ca/bargaining-to-continue-following-umfa-strike-mand…> yesterday, your resilience and patience are truly appreciated as the university and UMFA work on a collective agreement to support stability in operations; an outstanding educational experience for you, our students, and in providing fairness to our faculty members. I will write to you with further updates as soon as possible. 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! 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. Facebook<https://www.facebook.com/umanitoba> Twitter<https://twitter.com/umanitoba> Instagram<https://www.instagram.com/accounts/login/>

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Bargaining to continue following UMFA strike mandate
by President's Office 19 Oct '21

19 Oct '21

[cid:image001.png@01D7C4F6.4FA0B4D0] Message from Dr. Michael Benarroch, President and Vice-Chancellor To our university community, We learned today that that University of Manitoba Faculty Association members voted to give their union a strike mandate. I want to assure you that the university will continue to bargain in good faith with UMFA, with the intention of concluding a collective agreement without a labour disruption. At this time, all classes and campus activities will continue as usual. Staff who have been working on campus can continue to do so. Since bargaining began on August 5, we've seen meaningful progress on many articles and proposals. The university is committed to addressing challenges with faculty recruitment and retention and ensuring that each department offers an outstanding teaching and learning experience. We have proposed significant structural changes to enhance pay-scales for year 1 and 2 (please see the full presentation here<https://umanitoba.ca/bargaining/sites/bargaining/files/2021-10/UM-salary-co…>). We recognize the need for market supplements and have made a proposal to continue them in this round of bargaining with UMFA. On October 13, the university offered UMFA a four-year contract with the following increases: 1% in Year 1, 1% in Year 2, and 1.25% in Year 3, and 1.25% in Year 4. The entirety of our proposal recognizes our commitment to make faculty salaries more competitive within the U15 and regional landscape, while providing stability for students and staff. The university fully respects the bargaining process and the union's right to take strike action if it believes that is in the best interest of its members. However, the university believes strongly that we can reach a fair agreement for UMFA members and we will continue to work hard to achieve this. I know the bargaining process can create tension and stress for many in our community; we all feel this. I care deeply about what happens in these negotiations as I know we all do. I am incredibly proud of our community's commitment to provide an outstanding student experience and to ensure UM is the internationally competitive research university that Manitoba deserves. Thank you for your resilience and patience as we work together to conclude a collective agreement that supports stability in operations; an outstanding educational experience for our students; fairness to our faculty members; and sustainability for our institution. Please visit the bargaining website<https://umanitoba.ca/bargaining/> often, as we work to update it following each bargaining session and provide information to our community to the extent permitted by the bargaining process. Sincerely, 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:image002.png@01D7C4F6.4FA0B4D0]

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Search for a Vice-President (Research and International)
by President's Office 18 Oct '21

18 Oct '21

[cid:image001.png@01D7C431.30F71620] Message from Dr. Michael Benarroch, President and Vice-Chancellor As announced earlier this year<https://news.umanitoba.ca/term-extended-for-vp-research-and-international/>, Dr. Digvir S. Jayas will be concluding his term as Vice-President (Research and International) on June 30, 2022. Dr. Jayas, a highly-acclaimed researcher and leader, has served the University in this role since January 1, 2009. Dr. Jayas' leadership contributions to the University of Manitoba span more than two decades and, after having served two full terms as Vice-President (Research and International), he agreed twice to further extend his term. With the end of his term approaching, the University has launched a search for the next Vice-President (Research and International). I have formed a committee that I have asked to advise me on candidates for the role and on the position more generally. Joining me on the committee are: >From the Board of Governors: * Dr. Nora Murdock >From Administration: * Dr. Diane Hiebert-Murphy, Provost and Vice-President (Academic) * Dr. Cary Miller, Associate Professor and Department Head, Native Studies, Faculty of Arts and Associate Vice-President (Indigenous) for Research, Scholarship and Curriculum* * Mike Emslie, Chief Financial Officer and Comptroller >From the Deans Council: * Dr. Martin Scanlon, Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences * Dr. Brian Mark, Dean of the Faculty of Science >From Faculties: * Dr. Feiyue Wang, Tier 1 CRC in Arctic Environmental Chemistry and Professor, Environment and Geography, Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth and Resources * Dr. Jude Uzonna, Professor of Immunology, Professor of Medical Microbiology and Associate Dean (Research), Max Rady College of Medicine * Dr. Adele Perry, Distinguished Professor of History, Faculty of Arts and Director, Centre for Human Rights Research * Dr. Leisha Strachan, Professor and Associate Dean, Research and Graduate Studies, Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management >From the Vice-President (Research and International) Portfolio * Dr. Darren Fast, Director, Partnerships and Innovation >From the University of Manitoba Graduate Students' Association * Silvia Sekander, President I have retained Laverne Smith & Associates to assist with this search, which will include a process of consultation including a request for input from our UM community. Your input is being requested by the close of business November 1, 2021. Please click here<https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ManitobaVPRI> to complete a brief questionnaire to be returned directly to Laverne Smith & Associates. Your responses will be held in strict confidence by the consultant and the inclusion of your name is optional. The input to be gathered through this process will be used to inform the position profile that will be used to describe the role and expectations to candidates, as well as candidates to consider. The University of Manitoba is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community and especially welcomes candidates identifying as a member of one or more equity-seeking groups, including but not limited to women, racialized persons, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, persons of all sexual and gender identities, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. Thank you for your contributions to this important leadership appointment. *effective November 1, 2021 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:image002.png@01D7C431.30F71620]

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UM Releases Our Shared Future -- Building on Our Strategic Plan: Message from President Michael Benarroch and Provost and Vice-President (Academic) Diane Hiebert-Murphy
by President's Office 15 Oct '21

15 Oct '21

[cid:image001.png@01D7C1A2.AAB26640] Message from Dr. Michael Benarroch, President and Vice-Chancellor, and Dr. Diane Hiebert-Murphy, Provost and Vice-President (Academic) To our UM community, We are excited to share with you Our Shared Future: Building on Our Strategic Plan<https://umanitoba.ca/sites/default/files/2021-10/our-shared-future-building…>, which reflects the work we will do over the next 12 to 18 months to build upon our commitments and priorities. This work will help us prepare for a full planning process, to be launched in 2022, that will result in a new strategic plan for the University of Manitoba. Since spring 2020, when we presented our final report<https://umanitoba.ca/sites/default/files/2020-06/strategic-plan-2015-2020-f…> on Taking Our Place: University of Manitoba Strategic Plan 2015-2020, UM has continued to fulfill all the priorities laid out in the plan. The COVID-19 pandemic presented our community with immense challenges, but also with opportunities to learn and innovate. Indeed, the resilience we've seen across our university as we adapt to new ways of doing things is nothing short of inspiring. In the coming months and years, we will work together to evaluate what we've learned and to build on innovations that can strengthen our institution beyond the pandemic. The tremendous goodwill and confidence expressed by you-our community-is empowering our efforts to chart the university's future during continued uncertainty. In recent months, we heard from close to 2,000 members of the UM community about what matters most to them. Because of your feedback, we will focus on post-COVID planning and further our progress on anti-racism, experiential learning, Indigenous achievement and engagement, and equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). Our unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and addressing climate change will inform all our plans and priorities. Undoubtedly, we will need to re-evaluate and finetune these priorities to adapt to changing circumstances, as our university has done for 144 years. In the meantime, we look forward to working collectively to build on our achievements. Thank you for your ongoing contributions to this dynamic community of learning and discovery. If you have any questions or comments, please direct them to strategicplanning(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:strategicplanning@umanitoba.ca>. Thank you for your ongoing contributions to this dynamic community of learning and discovery. [cid:image002.jpg@01D7C1A2.AAB26640] Michael Benarroch, President and Vice Chancellor [cid:image003.png@01D7C1A2.AAB26640] Diane Hiebert-Murphy, Provost and Vice-President (Academic)

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Upload your proof of vaccination now
by Safe Return 13 Oct '21

13 Oct '21

[cid:image001.png@01D7C04A.EE35B8D0] UM SAFE RETURN UPDATE On August 19, President Benarroch announced all faculty, staff, students and campus visitors will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. In September<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 initial response rate was very good, with over 16,000 students and employees having uploaded their proof of vaccination. Thank you to those who have already uploaded their proof! A team is now in place to review and verify all submissions. You will only be contacted if further information is required. As we move further into fall and closer to Winter Term, we need to gain a complete picture of the vaccination rate of the UM community to make decisions about what a healthy and safe campus will look like in January. To do this, we need all students and employees to upload their proof of vaccination now, and not wait until the deadline. This includes all students who are learning remotely and are not currently on campus, as well as all employees who are working from home. You can upload your proof of vaccination on UM's secure site<https://covid-declaration.umanitoba.ca/> - it's quick and easy, with people reporting that it took them only two minutes. For those who are not fully vaccinated, we encourage you to get your vaccinations as soon as possible. University Health Service has appointments available<https://news.umanitoba.ca/um-vaccination-clinic-book-your-appointment-now/> for both first and second doses. You can also visit the province's vaccine page<https://protectmb.ca/> for information on making arrangements to be vaccinated. One of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself and others from COVID-19 is to get vaccinated. Currently, all students and employees who are not fully vaccinated and coming onto our campuses must undergo COVID-19 asymptomatic rapid testing. The Rady Faculty of Health Sciences has 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. Testing is required every 48 hours to access Rady Faculty of Health Sciences buildings. On Fort Garry campus and other satellite locations, 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)<https://umanitoba.ca/sites/default/files/2021-10/210924-covid-19-rapid-test…>. The hours of operation are 7am to 3pm Monday to Friday. Test results will be valid for 72 hours. Those individuals who are not fully vaccinated and who expect to be on campus after hours must 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 UofM.rapidtesting(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:UofM.rapidtesting@umanitoba.ca> . For those working in satellite locations, please follow the instructions you have received on where to pick up the test kits. More information about UM's mandatory COVID-19 vaccination can be found on the UM vaccine information page<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/vaccine-information>. In summary: * Submit your proof of vaccination now, whether you are working or learning in-person or remotely, or as soon as you have it. * The November 14th submission deadline was selected to allow time for unvaccinated members of our community to become fully vaccinated. * Those who do not submit proof are considered unvaccinated. * Those who are unvaccinated and come onto our campuses are required to undergo rapid testing. * Get vaccinated as soon as possible at University Health Services<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/health-wellness/university-health-ser…> or at one of the provincial sites.<https://protectmb.ca/> * For questions about COVID-19 safety: safereturn(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:safereturn@umanitoba.ca> * For questions about rapid testing: UofM.rapidtesting(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:UofM.rapidtesting@umanitoba.ca> Thank you for your cooperation in creating a healthy and safe campus community and for preparing for a more normal level of activity for the upcoming Winter Term. Sincerely, UM COVID-19 Recovery Steering Committee

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Update to UM Students: October 8, 2021
by Marcia Davies 08 Oct '21

08 Oct '21

[cid:image002.jpg@01D531AE.174C13F0] Dear students, With Thanksgiving right around the corner, I wanted to send a brief update, a few reminders, and wish you a happy, restful long weekend. Did you realize that October is Student Success Month<https://umanitoba.ca/current-students/um-commons/student-success-month> at UM?! Whether you are a new student or returning, our priority is your success - both academically and personally. Now is the best time to access the supports that will help you build and refine the skills you need to achieve your goals. Throughout the month all students are invited to participate in free workshops focussing on career prep, stress management, academic writing, research skills, cultural adaptation and identity, and more. Check them out! Indigenous students can also access a number of services, resources and programming at the Indigenous Student Centre, and meet with student advisors <https://umanitoba.ca/indigenous/our-team#indigenous-student-centre-advisors> or take part in Indigenous student programming at UM<https://umanitoba.ca/indigenous/student-experience>. For cultural learning and other activities, follow the Indigenous events calendar<https://eventscalendar.umanitoba.ca/site/indigenous>. UM bursary program The application window for the 2021/22 UM Bursary Program closed on October 1st. There was a very positive response to the program, and we have seen an increase in applicants over last year! Assessments are now underway, and awards for successful students will be applied directly to winter fees, by December 1st. Please continue to check your Aurora student account for updates. The health and safety of our campus community Another UM priority is your health and safety. Earlier this term it was announced<https://news.umanitoba.ca/hope-and-hesitation-at-the-start-of-fall-term/> that all students, staff and faculty must be fully vaccinated and provide proof of full vaccination by November 14. This deadline applies to you whether you are attending classes in-person or remotely. Please upload your proof of vaccination<https://covid-declaration.umanitoba.ca/> as soon as possible. This is critical information the university needs to prepare for a full return to in-person learning in the Winter Term. Uploading is quick and easy - it took me less than 5 minutes. If you are headed to campus, take time to review the Return-to-campus FAQs<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/safe-return-to-campus>, which address common questions, and the COVID website, which is the best source for UM safety protocols and the current health and safety measures<http://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/latest-updates-and-safety> being taken on our campuses. Please remember that if you are not vaccinated and are coming to campus, you must undergo rapid testing. If you are attending the Bannatyne campus or the Helen Glass Building on Fort Garry campus, you will receive on-site rapid testing. For all other buildings on Fort Garry campus, visit the Fitzgerald Building, 55 Chancellor's Circle (rooms 303 and 304) between 7am to 3pm, Monday to Friday. Test results will be valid for 72 hours (48 hours for College of Nursing). If you are coming to the Fort Garry campus after hours, you'll need to visit the testing site during their open hours to pick up a testing kit, and then email UofM.rapidtesting(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:uofm.rapidtesting@umanitoba.ca>. Regardless of whether you are fully vaccinated, if you are experiencing any symptoms, even mild ones, do not come to campus - get tested for COVID-19. Ensure that your instructor/advisor knows you are ill and follow the guidelines here<https://umanitoba.ca/coronavirus/resources-students#academic-support> if you are unable to meet an academic requirement for your courses. Keep active and have fun Recreation Services is back in full swing! Staying active promotes a variety of health benefits, mental well-being and can help relieve stress and anxiety. Through the Sport and Rec fee, UM students<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/members…> have access to sport and recreation facilities, casual rec use <https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/group-f…> and group fitness classes<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/group-f…> at the Fort Garry and Bannatyne campuses. Students also have the option to participate in UM REC Clubs<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/rec-clu…>, Intramural Sports<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/registe…> and instructional programs<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/registe…> at an additional cost. Visit UM Recreation Services <https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services> and take advantage of everything available to you. Claim your free tickets<https://gobisons.ca/sports/2021/8/31/tickets.aspx> and cheer on the Bisons<https://gobisons.ca/index.aspx> all month long! Women's hockey opens their season on Friday, October 15 against the Calgary Dinos. Football returns to IG Field looking for a 3-0 record against the Dinos on October 16, and UBC faces off against men's hockey on October 22. Visit gobisons.ca<https://gobisons.ca/index.aspx> for details. I hope to see you at the games! #wearellbisons Bargaining update You may have seen or heard that the University of Manitoba Faculty Association (UMFA) has recently voted to hold a strike vote later this month. A strike vote is a vote by the employees in a bargaining unit (in this case UMFA). The vote's outcome determines if the employees in a bargaining unit are authorized to call a strike, though it doesn't necessarily mean a strike will be called. Regardless of the outcome of this vote, please be assured that we are committed to providing stability for students through the timely conclusion of bargaining with UMFA. For regular updates I encourage you to visit this site<https://umanitoba.ca/bargaining/>. An update from the UM Bookstore As of October 12, proof of vaccination plus a government-issued or UM staff/student ID are required to enter the UM Bookstore. Orders can be placed online or by phone for delivery or pick-up at the Customer Service window. Visit umanitoba.ca/bookstore<https://umanitoba.ca/bookstore/> or call 204-474-8321. Finally, congratulations to Fall graduates! As you celebrate your many accomplishments from October 18-21 and on November 10, members of the UM community will be cheering you on virtually! The digital platform we're using for the event will offer a safe and immersive celebration. In addition to the ceremonies, you can access a digital photo booth, a live chat, a downloadable digital yearbook, faculty after-parties and a virtual tour through the Gallery of Awards. Find out more about making the most of your convocation experience<https://news.umanitoba.ca/make-the-most-of-your-fall-convocation-experience/> and how to use the platform.<https://news.umanitoba.ca/how-to-virtual-convocation-platform/> I hope that this message has been helpful to you. I'll be in touch again soon with more updates and resources to help you thrive at UM. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Take good care. 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. [UMLogoSignature]

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Update to UM Students: September 23, 2021
by Marcia Davies 23 Sep '21

23 Sep '21

[cid:image002.jpg@01D531AE.174C13F0] 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. [UMLogoSignature]

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COVID-19 Safe Return Important Update
by Safe Return 21 Sep '21

21 Sep '21

[cid:image001.png@01D7AF0D.146359D0] 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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You are Invited to Join UM Homecoming 2021: Message from President Michael Benarroch
by President's Office 17 Sep '21

17 Sep '21

[cid:image001.png@01D7ABAE.A9B37A90] 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> [cid:image003.png@01D7ABAE.A9B37A90]

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Proof of Vaccination Process
by Safe Return 14 Sep '21

14 Sep '21

[cid:image001.png@01D7A966.E5D21DF0] 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, [cid:image003.jpg@01D7A968.8712D410] 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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COVID update and fall term welcome from President Michael Benarroch
by President's Office 14 Sep '21

14 Sep '21

[cid:image001.png@01D7A943.4E12B1F0] 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, [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> [cid:image003.png@01D7A943.4E12B1F0]

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