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UM pledging $1M to emergency bursaries
by President's Office 30 Mar '22

30 Mar '22

[cid:image001.png@01D7F583.FE6805F0] Message from Dr. Michael Benarroch, President and Vice-Chancellor The University of Manitoba has pledged up to $1,000,000 to its Emergency Bursary Fund to provide robust financial support to students in financial distress as a result of the war in Ukraine, international conflicts, environmental catastrophes and extraordinary life events. Manitoba is home to one of the largest populations of Ukraine diaspora in Canada and we take our obligation to address this crisis seriously. We recognize that war and geopolitical events can impact our international students, and that domestic students can similarly experience emergencies that impact their finances and create unexpected need. Students lose access to funds for various reasons, and this emergency support will help students pay for the full cost of their tuition, residence, and other living expenses as required. These funds are available to those in need right now. The university is prioritizing funds toward this immediate need and I want to thank our university community, including our alumni and donors, who continue to step up to meet the increased demand for emergency student supports such the UM Student Food Bank<https://umanitoba.ca/financial-aid-and-awards/u-m-food-bank>. The university is committed to ensuring we offer meaningful, targeted support to students whose lives are upended by conflict or natural disaster here or abroad. Students come to UM to pursue an education and though we cannot alleviate all of their burdens, we can offer emergency aid that will allow them to focus on their studies. I encourage students in need to apply for this assistance here<https://forms.office.com/r/frUGFiEZkZ>. We are here for you. If you find yourself needing additional help or assistance, these other supports<https://news.umanitoba.ca/supports-available-for-anyone-impacted-by-invasio…> are also available. UM is grateful to have many international students and employees from Ukraine who make rich contributions to our province and university community. Our thoughts are with you, and with all your family and friends who deserve peace, liberty and good governance. Sincerely, [Shape, arrow 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:image004.png@01D7F583.FE6805F0]

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Update to UM Students: March 22, 2022
by VP Students 22 Mar '22

22 Mar '22

[Graphical user interface Description automatically generated with low confidence] Message from Laurie Schnarr, Vice-Provost (Students) Greetings students! With the return of the Canada geese and warmer weather on the way, that means a new academic term is on the horizon. I know that many of you have been asking about the status of in-person learning and COVID protocols for the Summer Term. I am writing to reinforce key information conveyed in the President's message yesterday and to provide important updates. Changes to UM COVID-19 protocols President Benarroch has announced<https://news.umanitoba.ca/update-on-vaccine-mask-and-illness-protocols-for-…> that as of May 4, UM will no longer require students, staff, faculty and visitors to show proof of vaccination when attending campus, and Summer Term will be in-person. UM will also continue to offer a wide variety of Distance Education courses. We have heard from many of you that masking is still welcome, and based on advice from our health experts, masks will continue to be required in all indoor spaces. If you are sick, please stay home. If you test positive for COVID-19, stay home for a minimum of five days. Immediately contact your instructor to make arrangements for extensions, deferrals or make-up assignments without academic penalty. The missed academic work form<https://umanitoba.ca/sites/default/files/2020-09/covid-19-missed-work-guide…> can be used to help communicate with your instructor. Your health and safety, and that of our UM community, are priorities. As President Benarroch said, we will remain nimble and will reassess our plans if the public health situation changes significantly before Summer Term. Until May 4, please remember that current UM COVID protocols<https://news.umanitoba.ca/march-14-update-for-um-students-on-resources-heal…> remain in place. Resources and supports While our return to in-person learning is welcome news, I know that some of you may feel anxious - especially if you haven't attended the campus in-person for two years - or ever! I want you to know that UM continues to offer a variety of student supports<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports> to help you with this transition. Whether it's academics<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/academic-supports>, health and wellness<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/student-health-and-wellness> or support for everyday life<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports>, there are resources available, regardless of your circumstance. If you are looking for tips to manage anxiety, this new article<https://news.umanitoba.ca/dealing-with-anxiety-distract-your-mind-and-find-…> on UM Today includes some grounding techniques from a Healthy U volunteer. There is also a highly trained team of Peer Helpers<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/get-involved/student-peer-mentoring-p…> who are available for one-on-one appointments to discuss anything from your experiences during the pandemic to challenges that you are having in your classes to strategies for navigating the campus in person. They can also help you find ways to get involved in university life and meet new people. On March 28 and 31, they are facilitating two "Taking Time for Self-Care<https://www.uofmcareerservices.ca/events.htm?eventId=3539>" events - check them out! The latest resources, programs and supports for Indigenous students can be found on the COVID-19 Indigenous supports page<https://umanitoba.ca/covid-19/students/indigenous>. Follow @umindigenous on Instagram for the latest information on Indigenous news and events at UM. New international students are encouraged to attend the International Centre's Lessons Learned and Future Goals<https://eventscalendar.umanitoba.ca/site/research/event/culture--connection…> session on April 7 to meet experienced international students, hear their tips and strategies for success, and ask questions. Join us! As we get closer to Summer Term, I will communicate additional information about programming that the Student Affairs team is planning to help you with your transition back to campus life - stay tuned! Manitoba student loan payments affected by the war in Ukraine If you have been affected financially by the war in Ukraine and need help making existing student loan payments, contact the Manitoba Student Aid office at 204-945-6321 or toll-free at 1-800-204-1685 to fast-track your application for the Repayment Assistance Plan. Otherwise, impacted students who are experiencing financial hardship as a result of the war in Ukraine are encouraged to contact Jane Lastra<mailto:jane.lastra@umanitoba.ca>, Associate Registrar and Director, Financial Aid and Awards. Get involved! Two years ago, on March 23, UM closed its buildings to help stop the spread of COVID-19. You are invited to join the campus community as we reflect on the past two years - how we worked together to overcome the many challenges that we faced, and will draw on collective hope as we look toward the future, at Riding the Waves: Reflecting on Two Years of Pandemic Living<https://news.umanitoba.ca/riding-the-waves-reflecting-on-two-years-of-pande…>, Wednesday, March 23, at 11:30 am. This event is hosted by St. John's College Chaplaincy and UM Spiritual Care and Multi-Faith Centre, in person at the Chapel of St John the Evangelist<https://umanitoba.ca/st-johns-college/community-and-giving/chaplaincy-chapel>, or you can attend virtually by viewing from this site<https://umanitoba.ca/campus-community-gatherings>. Also on Wednesday, March 23, the University of Manitoba is inviting all students to Building the Student Experience<https://eventscalendar.umanitoba.ca/site/campus/event/building-the-student-…>, an informal come-and-go community conversation on the future of student housing developments on campus. Drop by 204 University Centre between 11:30 am and 1:00 pm to provide your input and identify housing priorities for the University of Manitoba. Refreshments will be served. On April 7, attend Three Minute Thesis (3MT)<https://umanitoba.ca/graduate-studies/student-experience/three-minute-thesi…> and watch graduate students go head-to-head (virtually), summing up their theses in three minutes flat! If you're interested in research, future grad studies, or want to cheer on other students, check it out! Stay active Taking cake care of your physical and mental health helps to relieve stress. Recreation Services<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services>, now operating at 100 per cent, offers in-person and virtual<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/virtual…> options to help you stay active. We are all Bisons! Get involved as a volunteer or cheer on the Bisons this month when the best in the country come to play. Visit gobisons.ca<https://gobisons.ca/index.aspx> for details: U SPORTS Men's Volleyball Championship<https://gobisons.ca/sports/2019/11/26/u-sports-volleyball.aspx> March 25-27 It has been great to see so many of you back on campus this term. A walk through the Price Engineering complex, for example, serves as a reminder of the vibrant campus community we dearly miss and look forward to experiencing again very soon. Wishing you all my best in the latter weeks of the Winter Term. Until next time... Take good care. ...Laurie Laurie M. Schnarr, MA (she/her) Vice-Provost (Students) Office of the Provost and Vice-President (Academic) University of Manitoba 208 Administration Building Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 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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Update on vaccine, mask and illness protocols for Summer Term
by Safe Return 21 Mar '22

21 Mar '22

[cid:image001.png@01D83D25.1F2E6C50] Message from Dr. Michael Benarroch, President and Vice-Chancellor Update on vaccine, mask and illness protocols for Summer Term This week marks two years since UM moved to remote operations to help stop the spread of COVID-19, and since then our community has continued to make sacrifices in support of public health while offering the best-possible teaching and learning experience in these challenging times. As the Omicron wave is receding, we are cautiously increasing in-person activity and looking to ease some restrictions. It is heartening to see more and more of you on our campuses and we are optimistic that we can continue toward more normal operations. Vaccine mandate will end after Winter Term, masks continue Today, we are announcing that starting May 4, UM will no longer require staff, students or visitors coming to our campus to have proof of vaccination. We will, however, continue to make the wearing of masks mandatory. We also continue to improve our ventilation systems to ensure a healthier environment for all. We expect the majority of our classes will be held in-person in Summer Term, but we will continue to offer an important complement of Distance Education courses. Stay home when you are sick We continue to ask anyone who is sick to stay home, and if you have a positive COVID-19 test, stay home for a minimum of five days<https://umanitoba.ca/covid-19/health-safety#testing-and-illness>. Employee sick time or remote work arrangements (where possible) can be used for self-isolation - please connect with your supervisor to make required arrangements. Students should work directly with instructors to seek reasonable accommodation. While it can be challenging to plan for the long term in a pandemic, we remain nimble and adjust to the challenges as they arise. We are committed to ensuring our community's health and safety. If the public health situation significantly changes before Summer Term, we will reassess our plans. We have faced challenging times, and we have weathered them all together. Let's keep supporting each other because that's how we enable everyone's success. Continue to take care of each other, and yourselves. I look forward to seeing you all soon. Sincerely, [Shape, arrow Description automatically generated] Michael Benarroch, Ph.D. President and Vice-Chancellor

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Update to UM Students: March 14, 2022
by VP Students 14 Mar '22

14 Mar '22

[Graphical user interface Description automatically generated with low confidence] Message from Laurie Schnarr, Vice-Provost (Students) Dear students, With many of you making the transition back to in-person learning and studying, we want to assure you - and all students - that we are continuing to take precautions to keep you safe. As you know, the provincial government is beginning the process of loosening their pandemic-related restrictions this week. However, we expect our UM community to continue to follow the updated UM health and safety guidelines. The health and well-being of our students remains a top priority, and it is up to everyone on campus to work together to contribute to this effort. The following protocols are effective until the end of Winter Term on May 3. Mandatory vaccination UM's vaccine mandate requires all students and employees on campus to be double vaccinated and to have uploaded proof of vaccination on UM's website, or to have received an approved medical or religious exemption. Rapid testing is no longer an alternative to vaccination. Masking required KN95 masks must be worn in all indoor spaces on UM campuses. The only exceptions are if you are alone in a room with the door closed or eating in areas designated for food consumption. Masks are not required outdoors. If you visit the COVID-19 health and safety website<https://umanitoba.ca/covid-19/health-safety>, you'll find a list of places where you can pick up a mask, and the hours of operation for each. If you are coming to campus and do not have a KN95 mask, you can wear your own cloth or 3-ply mask while you go immediately to the closest mask pick-up location. After the initial mask pick-up, it's expected that you will have a supply of KN95 masks to wear, even when attending the distribution locations to access more masks. Reporting illness If you are not feeling well, stay at home or immediately go home. We strongly advise you to follow UM's existing self-isolation protocols<https://umanitoba.ca/covid-19/health-safety#testing-and-illness>. Updated process charts are available on the COVID-19 website health and safety page<https://umanitoba.ca/covid-19/health-safety> for those who are on campus and begin to feel ill<https://umanitoba.ca/sites/default/files/2022-01/covid_student_not_feeling_…>, and another chart if you were a close contact<https://umanitoba.ca/sites/default/files/2022-01/covid_student_absence.pdf> of someone who tested positive for COVID-19. Close contacts are people who have shared space with a COVID-positive person during their period of communicability. Specifically, these are people who were within two metres/six feet of a COVID-positive individual for a total of 10 minutes over a 24-hour period. If you are symptomatic or test positive for COVID-19 and need to self-isolate: Students should immediately contact their instructor to make arrangements for extensions, deferrals or make-up assignments without academic penalty. The missed academic work form<https://umanitoba.ca/sites/default/files/2020-09/covid-19-missed-work-guide…> can be used to help communicate with your instructor. As the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve, our team of experts will advise as to when it will be appropriate to adjust the health and safety protocols in place. For up-to-date information on UM's COVID-19 response and protocols, please visit the COVID-19 website<https://umanitoba.ca/covid-19>. Additional information regarding resources and supports The latest resources, programs and supports for Indigenous students can be found on the COVID-19 Indigenous supports page<https://umanitoba.ca/covid-19/students/indigenous>. All Indigenous Student Centre programming is still available - this page lets you know how to connect with each. New international students can meet fellow international students and share experiences at the Lessons Learned and Future Goals<https://eventscalendar.umanitoba.ca/site/research/event/culture--connection…> session of the International Centre's Culture and Connection series for new students. Get involved! Two years ago on March 23 UM closed its buildings to help stop the spread of COVID-19. You are invited to reflect on the challenges we have faced over the past two years, recognize how we have worked together to overcome them, and find collective hope in the future at Riding the Waves: Reflecting on Two Years of Pandemic Living<https://umanitoba.ca/campus-community-gatherings>, Wednesday, March 23, at 11:30 am. Please join St. John's College Chaplaincy and UM Spiritual Care and Multi-Faith Centre in person at the Chapel of St John the Evangelist or you can attend virtually by viewing from this site<https://umanitoba.ca/campus-community-gatherings>. On March 17th from 1-2 pm, the Faculty of Graduate Studies is offering a session to help graduate students establish the most effective online research profiles: ORCID, Scopus, Publons, Google Scholar: Making Sense of Research Profiles<https://eventscalendar.umanitoba.ca/site/libraries/event/orcid-scopus-publo…>. On Wednesday, March 23, all students are invited to Building the Student Experience<https://eventscalendar.umanitoba.ca/site/campus/event/building-the-student-…>, an informal come-and-go community conversation on the future of on-campus housing development at UM. Drop by 204 UMSU University Centre between 11:30 am -1:00 pm to provide your input and identify housing priorities for UM. Refreshments will be served. Stay active Taking cake care of your physical and mental health helps to relieve stress. Recreation Services<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services>, now operating at 100 per cent, offers in-person and virtual<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/virtual…> options to help you stay active. We are all Bisons! Get involved as a volunteer or cheer on the Bisons this month when the best in the country come to play. Visit gobisons.ca<https://gobisons.ca/index.aspx> for details: · Canada West Track and Field Championships<https://gobisons.ca/sports/2022/2/11/cw-track-and-field-2022.aspx> March 18-19 · U SPORTS Men's Volleyball Championship<https://gobisons.ca/sports/2019/11/26/u-sports-volleyball.aspx> March 25-27 As I observe our many UM community members making the full return to our campuses, I am hopeful that we can continue to help and support one other with the same empathy and kindness that I have witnessed countless times throughout the past two years. I hope this reminder of our COVID-related protocols and the many resources, programs and supports available to you has been helpful. All my best, ...Laurie Laurie M. Schnarr, MA (she/her) Vice-Provost (Students) Office of the Provost and Vice-President (Academic) University of Manitoba 208 Administration Building Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Confidential Assistant - Marci Davies Marci.Davies(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:Marcia.Davies@umanitoba.ca>: Student Affairs: 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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Survey Invitation: UM Sustainability Culture and Literacy
by Office of Sustainability 11 Mar '22

11 Mar '22

Dear UM Community member, The Office of Sustainability invites you to respond to the University of Manitoba Sustainability Culture and Literacy<https://bit.ly/3vneAb5> survey. The University of Manitoba is continually working to be more sustainable which includes engaging our campus community. As part of the Sustainability Strategy 2019-2023<http://umanitoba.ca/campus/sustainability/media/Sustainability_Strategy_201…>, this survey is intended to assess the sustainability culture and literacy at the University which will evaluate our successes and areas in need of improvement for sustainability outreach and education initiatives. This information will also be used in the next UM Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS) submission as we strive for platinum certification. Read the latest UM Today article for more information<https://news.umanitoba.ca/sustainability-literacy-survey/>. This survey is hosted on the Microsoft Forms platform and is expected to take approximately 10 minutes to complete. Information will be held in confidence and handled in a confidential manner. To engage in the survey please visit: https://bit.ly/3vneAb5 Survey closes: Monday, March 14th. Questions? Email sustainability(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:sustainability@umanitoba.ca> [Text Description automatically generated]<https://bit.ly/3vneAb5> Office of Sustainability UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA | 152-89 Freedman Cres | Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 C: 204-330-5391 | E: sustainability(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:sustainability@umanitoba.ca>

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Update to UM Students: February 28, 2022
by VP Students 28 Feb '22

28 Feb '22

[Graphical user interface Description automatically generated with low confidence] Message from Laurie Schnarr, Vice-Provost (Students) Dear students, Welcome back to Winter Term! Whether you are returning to campus for classes or studying remotely, I hope you've had a restful week, with the opportunity to recharge, catch up on some studying, and reconnect with friends and family. While we are all encouraged by the easing of pandemic-related restrictions in our community, troubling events elsewhere in the world continue to occupy our minds. My thoughts are with our Ukrainian students and those with ties to Russia and Eastern Europe who have been affected by the invasion of Ukraine. UM has many student supports<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports> and I encourage you to reach out. We are here for you. Those looking for avenues to show your support are encouraged to consider a donation to the Canadian Red Cross Humanitarian Crisis Appeal<https://donate.redcross.ca/page/100227/donate/1?locale=en-CA>. Last week, the Federal government announced that it will match all eligible donations made between February 24 and March 18, 2022. The Return to Campus For those returning to in-person learning and studying, check out the return to campus website<https://umanitoba.ca/current-students/um-commons/return-campus-students> and the following information that you may find useful: Masks KN95 masks must be worn in all indoor spaces on UM campuses<https://umanitoba.ca/covid-19/health-safety#mask-use>. The only exceptions are if you are alone in a room with the door closed, or eating in areas designated for food consumption. Masks are not required outdoors. Several mask distribution tables will be located across campus. Say hi to the friendly staff members in blue shirts who, in addition to providing you with a KN95 mask, can offer you wayfinding advice and a campus map of study/computer lab locations that are open. Masks will be available at the tables Monday to Friday 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. until March 11 at the locations on the covid-19 health and safety website<https://umanitoba.ca/covid-19/health-safety#mask-use>. On that site you'll also find a list of Libraries and other areas where you can pick up a mask, and the hours of operation for each. If you are coming to campus and do not have a KN95 mask, you can wear your own cloth or 3-ply mask while you go immediately to the closest mask pick-up location. After the initial mask pick-up, it's expected that you will have a supply of KN95 masks to wear, even when attending the distribution locations to access more masks. Study spaces on campus Study spaces are available to you on both the Fort Garry and Bannatyne campuses. Detailed information can be found on this web page<https://umanitoba.ca/covid-19/students#resources-for-students> under "On-campus services". The Libraries also have study spaces available. If you are looking for a place to eat on either the Fort Garry or Bannatyne campus, please visit the where to eat on campus<https://umanitoba.ca/campus-services#eat-on-campus> web page. Parking If you are commuting to campus for the remainder of Winter Term, you can now purchase a monthly student parking permit for March and April at the same per-month price as a full student permit. The March monthly permit includes February 28, so you won't need to worry about paying for parking on that additional day. If you are only going to be on campus certain days of the week, you can also purchase a flexible student parking permit that is valid for select days. Please visit the parking website for details on how to purchase a permit<https://umanitoba.ca/parking/student-parking>. Campus tours If you haven't been to campus yet, or you would just like a refresher, Student Life is offering campus tours<https://umanitoba.ca/current-students/um-commons/return-campus-students#get…> every Wednesday in March featuring key buildings, study spots and offices. Visit the return to campus<https://umanitoba.ca/current-students/um-commons/return-campus-students> website for details and to register. Outside of class time, I encourage you to participate in the "Where's Billy?" scavenger hunt that begins on Monday morning (February 28) on Instagram<https://www.instagram.com/p/CaVN5BRl48U/>. Find all nine Billy the Bison posters at various campus locations by March 11 for your chance to win great prizes from the Bookstore. Student services and supports Below is an update on the status of Student Affairs services and supports for the remainder of Winter Term: Office of the Registrar and Enrolment Services Financial Aid and Awards<https://umanitoba.ca/financial-aid-and-awards>, the Registrar's Office<https://umanitoba.ca/registrar> and Admissions<https://umanitoba.ca/admissions> offices will continue to offer services remotely for the remainder of Winter Term, with the following exceptions: * Students who request emergency pick-ups of Transcripts, Enrolment Verifications and other documents. Student Support Student Counselling<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/counselling-resources-students>, Student Accessibility Services<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/accessibility>, Student Advocacy and Case Management<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/academic-supports/student-advocacy>, Spiritual Care<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/spiritual-services>, Health and Wellness<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/health-wellness>, the Sexual Violence Resource Centre<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/sexual-violence-support-and-education>, and Student Services at Bannatyne<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/student-services-bannatyne-campus> will continue to offer services and programming remotely, however: * In-person front office staffing and/or drop-in hours are available for students on campus who visit these offices. Please contact the offices directly to identify available times. * University Health Service<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/health-wellness/university-health-ser…> (UHS) is open for virtual or in-person appointments in its temporary location in the trailer (ACW parking lot). Student Engagement & Success All programming and services will continue to be delivered remotely, including tutoring supports<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/academic-supports/academic-learning>, and advising activities<https://umanitoba.ca/university-1/contact-us>, however: * The First Year Centre<https://umanitoba.ca/university-1> and Career Services<https://www.umanitoba.ca/career-services/> receptions are open for those students who are on campus. * The International Centre<https://umanitoba.ca/international> reception will be open in April. * Some Student Life programming (e.g., tours<https://umanitoba.ca/current-students/um-commons/return-campus-students#get…> and programming for students engaged in in-person learning) will be taking place on campus. Mental health If you are feeling stress or anxiety, whether you are returning to campus or are continuing with remote learning, there are many student supports<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports> in place to help you and a range of self-care tips you can add to your toolkit<https://news.umanitoba.ca/14-ways-to-combat-stress-during-tough-times/>. Regardless of your level of need there is support available<https://news.umanitoba.ca/stress-support/>. Attention Graduate Students The UMGSA, in collaboration with campus partners, is offering two virtual workshops on March 8th as part of their new Mental Health Morning program: · Resiliency & Hope: 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. · Climate Anxiety: 10:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Registration is required<http://www.umgsa.org/calendar/>. Stay active Be sure to take care of your physical and mental health during this time. Recreation Services<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services> offers in-person and virtual<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/virtual…> options to help you stay active and relieve stress. Get involved! Register<https://www.uofmcareerservices.ca/events.htm?eventId=3491> to attend a session on March 3rd from 3-4pm with Peer Helpers and campus experts to learn more about joining clubs, volunteering opportunities, recreation and more! We are all Bisons! Cheer on the Bisons later this month when the best in the country come to play. Visit gobisons.ca<https://gobisons.ca/index.aspx> for details: · Canada West Track and Field Championships<https://gobisons.ca/sports/2022/2/11/cw-track-and-field-2022.aspx> March 18-19 · U SPORTS Men's Volleyball Championship<https://gobisons.ca/sports/2019/11/26/u-sports-volleyball.aspx> March 25-27 Throughout the remainder of Winter Term I will share updates with you by email, but I encourage you to continue visiting the COVID-19 website<https://umanitoba.ca/covid-19/students> for up-to-date health and safety information, and follow @umstudent<https://www.instagram.com/umstudent/> on Instagram. Welcome back. I wish you all the best as you resume your Winter Term studies. Take good care. ...Laurie Laurie M. Schnarr, MA (she/her) Vice-Provost (Students) Office of the Provost and Vice-President (Academic) University of Manitoba 208 Administration Building Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 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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Supports available for anyone impacted by invasion of Ukraine - Message from Michael Benarroch, President and Vice-Chancellor
by President's Office 28 Feb '22

28 Feb '22

[cid:image001.png@01D82C96.FCD0F9A0] Message from Dr. Michael Benarroch, President and Vice-Chancellor As events continue to unfold in Ukraine, the University of Manitoba is committed to supporting students and employees who are impacted by the current conflict in Ukraine. As I said in my message last week<https://news.umanitoba.ca/the-university-of-manitoba-stands-in-support-with…>, watching this situation unfold from afar while fearing for family and friends is deeply painful, and we are here for you. If you find yourself needing help or assistance, if your studies are being impacted, or you would like to speak to someone outside of your regular friend and family networks, I encourage you to use the resources below. * If you are a student and are feeling stress or anxiety, there are many student supports<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports> in place to help you, including self-care tips<https://news.umanitoba.ca/14-ways-to-combat-stress-during-tough-times/> to add to your toolkit. Regardless of your level of need, you are encouraged to access the wide range of supports available to you. * Faculty and staff are reminded that UM work, wellness and crisis supports are available, such as the Employee Family Assistance Program, which includes support networks and resources. Managers who need support can contact their HR consultant. See employee wellness on UM Intranet<https://umanitoba.sharepoint.com/sites/um-intranet-employee-wellness> for details. * Spiritual Care offers several services including spiritual care providers, chaplains and Elders who are ready to meet with any student who would like to connect one-on-one. Visit the Spiritual Care website to learn more about the resources they provide<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/spiritual-services>. * If your upcoming academic course work is affected because you are directly impacted by the situation in Ukraine, please reach out to your instructor right away to discuss options that are available. If you encounter any issues with regard to your courses, you can also seek advice from Student Advocacy<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/academic-supports/student-advocacy>. * If you are directly impacted by the situation in Ukraine and would like to discuss academic accommodations, such as deferrals or extensions, please contact your instructor or an advisor in your faculty<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports/academic-supports/academic-advising> as soon as possible. * Students experiencing financial distress due to the conflict should connect with Financial Aid and Awards<https://umanitoba.ca/financial-aid-and-awards> for information regarding supports. * The International Student Advisors (ISA) at the International Centre<https://umanitoba.ca/international> (IC) are also available for support. To be connected with an ISA, please contact international(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:international@umanitoba.ca> or 204-474-8501. UM is grateful to have many international students and employees from Ukraine who make rich contributions to our province and university community. Our thoughts are with you, and with all your family and friends who deserve peace, liberty and good governance. Sincerely, [Shape, arrow 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@01D82C99.2867CF60]

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Research Study: Mapping Un/Safer Spaces on University Campuses
by Mapping Project 24 Feb '22

24 Feb '22

Dear Students: We are writing you today to request your support in participating for a research study examining the experience of multiply-marginalized students on campus. Emerging from a gap in the literature on the climate of marginalized students on campus, this study has two primary objectives: 1. To analyze how equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) discourses attend to intersectionality as means to address the problem of social and systemic oppression on university campuses. 2. To identify how EDI discourses attend to the issue of physical space, and the extent to which campus geography both reflects and contributes to the experience of oppression among multiply-marginalized students. Our aim is to recruit 10-15 multiply-marginalized students on campus to share their experiences and opinions on a host of questions ranging from student experience to campus spaces. We also ask the participants to describe their inclusion/exclusion experiences on the campus map. We hope to uncover ways to make improvements to EDI practices through this research project. We will certainly protect the confidentiality of all participants and have received ethics approval from the Education/Nursing Research Ethics Board at the University of Manitoba to conduct this study. If you would like a detailed copy of the study description, please let us know. We would be happy to provide this to you. If you had concerns about the ethics of this research study, you are welcome to contact us or the Human Ethics Coordinator at 204-474-7122 or by email at: humanethics(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:humanethics@umanitoba.ca>. Please contact Chris Yendt (mapping.project(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:mapping.project@umanitoba.ca>) if you have questions or would like to participate. Qualifying students are entitled to a $40 gift card for their participation in this research project. We look forward to sharing the results with you when this project is complete. Regards, Robert Mizzi and Chris Yendt Faculty of Education, University of Manitoba

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Update to UM Students: February 18, 2022
by VP Students 18 Feb '22

18 Feb '22

[Graphical user interface Description automatically generated with low confidence] Message from Laurie Schnarr, Vice-Provost (Students) Dear students, Next week is Winter Term break. I encourage you to take advantage<https://news.umanitoba.ca/give-yourself-a-break-this-reading-week/> of this time to recharge by getting outside or connecting with friends. Start the week off by celebrating Louis Riel Day<https://news.umanitoba.ca/celebrating-louis-riel-day-our-way/> at one of the many local events honouring the Founding Father of Manitoba, and be sure to take part in today's #MétisTakeover<https://www.instagram.com/umindigenous/?hl=en> on Instagram. On February 28th we will begin the transition back to in-person learning. I want to assure you that your health, well-being and academic success remain our priority. As noted in today's health and safety message<https://news.umanitoba.ca/covid-19-health-and-safety-update> from the Provost and the Vice-President (Administration), COVID-19 protocols on campus have been updated and will take effect on February 22nd. You can read more about those updates on the COVID health and safety page<https://umanitoba.ca/covid-19/health-safety>. A reminder that KN95 masks will be available in the following buildings, Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. until March 11: Beginning Feb. 22: Fletcher Argue close to IT Service Centre UMSU University Centre Beginning Feb. 28: Machray Hall Lobby Engineering and Information Technology Complex (EITC) Atrium Extended Education Libraries (varying hours - refer to the update<https://news.umanitoba.ca/covid-19-health-and-safety-update>): * Elizabeth Dafoe Library * Science & Technology Library * E. K. Williams Law Library * Neil John Maclean Health Sciences Library * Architecture/Fine Arts Library * Archives & Special Collections * Eckhardt-Gramatté Music Library * Father Harold Drake (St. Paul's College) Library Brief and Temporary Absences Based on recent questions from students, I would like to remind you that if you become ill during the term and are unable to attend class and/or meet a course requirement, it is important to inform your instructor by email and to make arrangements for extensions, deferrals or make-up assignments. Follow the guidelines outlined on the COVID Students page<https://umanitoba.ca/covid-19/students#resources-for-students> and fill out the missed academic work form<https://umanitoba.ca/sites/default/files/2020-09/covid-19-missed-work-guide…> to help in your communications with your instructor. Returning to Campus Students returning to in-person learning are encouraged to visit the new "Return to Campus"<https://umanitoba.ca/current-students/um-commons/return-campus-students> website regularly to take advantage of the programs and resources being developed to support you. Some highlights: Get oriented to campus: Whether it's your first time on campus, or you just need a bit of a refresher, the Student Life team is here to help you find your way. Register for an in-person tour of the Fort Garry campus during the Winter Term break (all tours will run 1:30-3:00 p.m.): * Register for February 22<https://www.uofmcareerservices.ca/events.htm?eventId=3480> * Register for February 23<https://www.uofmcareerservices.ca/events.htm?eventId=3482> * Register for February 24<https://www.uofmcareerservices.ca/events.htm?eventId=3483> * Register for February 25<https://www.uofmcareerservices.ca/events.htm?eventId=3484> Study Spaces Throughout Winter Term Break, study spaces<https://umanitoba.ca/covid-19/students#resources-for-students> will continue to be available in various buildings across the Fort Garry campus<https://umanitoba.ca/sites/default/files/2021-10/210924-study-spaces.pdf> and at the Bannatyne campus. Complete details regarding study spaces for the remainder of Winter Term, including extended hours and spaces earmarked for students attending remote classes while on campus, will be available on the website prior to February 28. If you are navigating between in-person and remote classes, the UM BookStore is offering a selection of earbuds<http://bookstore.umanitoba.ca/MerchDetail?MerchID=1615830&CategoryName=Tech…> with a built-in microphone ($12.99-$14.99) and will be open during Reading Week, Tuesday to Friday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Libraries I am excited to announce that effective February 28 the Libraries<https://umanitoba.ca/libraries/> will be reopening as follows: * Elizabeth Dafoe Library, Science and Technology Library, E.K. Williams Law Library and Neil John Maclean Health Sciences Library * Monday to Friday, 8 a.m.-11 p.m. * Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. * Architecture/Fine Arts Library, Archives and Special Collections, Eckhardt-Gramatté Music Library and Father Harold Drake Library (St. Paul's College): * Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. The Albert D. Cohen Management Library, Donald W. Craik Engineering Library, St. John's College Library and William R. Newman Agricultural Library will remain closed for the remainder of Winter Term. Attention Graduate Students The UMGSA in partnership with Student Counselling Services is offering the following virtual workshop and has asked that you hold this date, with registration details to be communicated soon by the UMGSA and Faculty of Graduate Studies: Resiliency and Hope: Moving Forward with Post-pandemic relationships, communication and life in graduate studies Date: March 8 Time: 9:00 a.m. -10:30 am We are here for you! If you are feeling stress or anxiety, whether you are returning to campus or are continuing with remote learning, there are many student supports<https://umanitoba.ca/student-supports> in place to help you find ways to cope or add self-care tips to your toolkit<https://news.umanitoba.ca/14-ways-to-combat-stress-during-tough-times/>. There is support available<https://news.umanitoba.ca/stress-support/>, regardless of your level of need. Get involved There are plenty of opportunities to connect or reconnect with peers and the community as we progress through the shift to in-person activities. Here are a few examples: Where's Billy?<https://umanitoba.ca/current-students/um-commons/return-campus-students> In the pre-dawn hours of February 28th, images of Billy the Bison will be posted across the Fort Garry campus. When you're not in class, have some fun with this scavenger hunt, and you'll be eligible to win some prizes! * The first clue to get you started on February 28: Billy will be hiding out at the entrance to the place you'll need to go when you're writing your first arts/humanities essay! HINT: EDL are important initials here. Trivia time! Connect with your peers, test your knowledge of campus and familiarize yourself with important resources on campus and how to access them at the Campus Resources Trivia <https://www.uofmcareerservices.ca/events.htm?eventId=3487> event, February 22 from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Stay active. Be sure to take care of your physical and mental health during this time. Recreation Services<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services> offers in-person and virtual<https://umanitoba.ca/community/sport-recreation/recreation-services/virtual…> options to help you stay active and relieve stress. We are all Bisons! The Bisons women's hockey team will host the Canada West quarter-finals at the Wayne Fleming Arena on Friday, February 25 and Saturday, February 26 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, February 27 at 3 p.m. (if necessary). Students get in free, game day protocols<https://gobisons.ca/sports/2021/9/1/game-day.aspx> are in effect. Later in March, Bisons will also host: * Canada West Track and Field Championships<https://gobisons.ca/sports/2022/2/11/cw-track-and-field-2022.aspx> March 18-19 * U SPORTS Men's Volleyball Championship<https://gobisons.ca/sports/2019/11/26/u-sports-volleyball.aspx> March 25-27 #weareallbisons I am feeling hopeful and excited as we make our way back to in-person activity. As always, I am inspired by your resilience and unwavering commitment as members of our UM community of learners. I will continue to provide you with updates regarding the safe return to campus and ask that you monitor your official UM inbox and follow @umstudent<https://www.instagram.com/umstudent/> on Instagram. Until then - I wish you a restful and restorative Reading Week! My best, ...Laurie Laurie M. Schnarr, MA (she/her) Vice-Provost (Students) Office of the Provost and Vice-President (Academic) University of Manitoba 208 Administration Building Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Confidential Assistant - Marci Davies Marci.Davies(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:Marcia.Davies@umanitoba.ca>: Student Affairs: 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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COVID-19 health and safety update
by Safe Return 18 Feb '22

18 Feb '22

[cid:image001.png@01D824DA.E7884E90] MESSAGE FROM DIANE HIEBERT-MURPHY, PROVOST AND VICE-PRESIDENT (ACADEMIC) AND NAOMI ANDREW, VICE-PRESIDENT (ADMINISTRATION) COVID-19 health and safety update As we approach a partial return to campus on February 28 including approximately 2,200 in-person courses/sections, we have updated health and safety protocols, with the well-being of the UM community continuing to be our top priority. We recognize that the province has an upcoming schedule for loosening restrictions. UM continues to meet or exceed the required health orders. The protocols below are effective February 22, until the end of Winter Term on May 3. Mandatory vaccination UM's vaccine mandate<https://umanitoba.ca/covid-19/vaccine-information> requires all students and employees on campus to be double vaccinated and to have uploaded proof of vaccination on UM's website, or to have received an approved medical or religious exemption. Rapid testing is no longer an alternative to vaccination. Masking required KN95 masks are required in all indoor spaces. The only exceptions are if you are alone in an office or room with the door closed, or while eating in areas designed for food consumption. No eye protection will be required except for specific occupational health and safety requirements (e.g., safety glasses in labs, clinical skills sessions). Masks will not be required outdoors. KN95 masks will be distributed by UM at tables set up in the locations below. Faculties and units will also have a supply of KN95 masks for employees. If you are coming to campus and do not have a KN95 mask, you can wear your own cloth or 3-ply mask on campus while you go immediately to the closest mask pick-up location. After the initial mask pick-up, it's expected that employees and students will have a supply of KN95 masks to wear, including when attending the distribution locations to access more masks. KN95 masks will be available in the following areas, Monday to Friday, 7am-3pm until March 11: Beginning Feb. 22: Fletcher Argue, near the IT Service Centre UMSU University Centre Beginning Feb. 28: Engineering and Information Technology Complex (EITC) atrium Extended Education Complex Machray Hall Lobby KN95 masks will also be available at the following libraries beginning Feb. 28: Elizabeth Dafoe Library Science & Technology Library E. K. Williams Law Library Neil John Maclean Health Sciences Library Hours: 8:00 am to 11:00 pm Monday to Friday 10:00 am to 6:00 pm Saturday & Sunday Architecture/Fine Arts Library Archives & Special Collections Eckhardt-Gramatté Music Library Father Harold Drake (St. Paul's College) Library Hours: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday to Friday No physical distancing There will be no physical distancing requirements in any classroom, lab, workplace or area on campus, except for locations specifically designated for food consumption, where masks can be removed while eating/drinking. In-person activity resumes In person activity, including events, will resume on campus with no approvals required for activities involving 100 people or less, where alcohol is not served. All activities must follow UM's health and safety protocols. For activities of 100 people or more, or where alcohol is served: * Faculty/Unit-based events will require approval from the dean or unit head. * Student-led activities on and off campus will require approval<https://umanitoba.ca/sites/default/files/2021-10/student-led-in-person-acti…> from the Vice-Provost (Students), Laurie Schnarr. * All other activities will require an in-person activity request form<https://umanitoba.ca/sites/default/files/2021-01/in-person-activity-request…> to be submitted to the COVID Recovery Steering committee at crsc(a)umanitoba.ca<mailto:crsc@umanitoba.ca>. Reporting illness If you are not feeling well, stay at home or immediately go home. Updated process charts are available on the COVID website health and safety page<https://umanitoba.ca/covid-19/health-safety#testing-and-illness> for those who are feeling unwell or are deemed close contacts by Public Health. Close contacts<https://www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/testing/monitoring/index.html> are people who have shared space with a COVID-positive person during their period of communicability. Specifically, these are people who were within two metres/six feet of a COVID-positive individual for a total of 10 minutes over a 24-hour period. If you are symptomatic or test positive for COVID-19 and need to self-isolate: * Students enrolled in an in-person course should immediately contact their instructor to make arrangements for extensions, deferrals or make-up assignments without academic penalty. The missed academic work form<https://umanitoba.ca/sites/default/files/2020-09/covid-19-missed-work-guide…> can be used to help communicate with your instructor. * Faculty and instructors teaching in-person should contact their dean or department head to make alternate arrangements for the course instruction. * Staff working on campus should contact their supervisor to discuss their absence from work or if possible, make remote work arrangements. Summer Term planning At this time, we are looking forward to a full in-person return, effective Summer Term 2022. More information will be provided in the coming weeks. For more information on health and safety measures to keep our campus community safe, visit UM's COVID-19 website<https://umanitoba.ca/covid-19>.

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