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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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