Message from Laurie Schnarr, Vice-Provost (Students)

Hello Bisons!

Welcome all new and returning students! We are excited that you are joining us for the Fall Term at the University of Manitoba! Across our campuses we have been preparing programs and events to engage you, and the academic and personal supports you need to thrive.

I encourage you to get involved–explore UMConnect for experiential learning opportunities, cheer on our Bisons teams at their home games, and discover the many ways to meet new people and participate in campus life. There are countless opportunities to apply your learning in fun, real-world contexts. Take advantage of all that UM has to offer!

Throughout the year I will be sending you emails periodically to check in, provide updates, and share information relevant to students. The Vice-Provost (Equity) and I are also offering bi-weekly drop-in hours at Degrees throughout the Fall and Winter terms beginning on September 11^th from 1:30-2:30. If you have a question, big idea, or a concern please drop by – we look forward to connecting with you!

Today’s update is intended to support you in navigating the early days of the Fall Term successfully.

Things to know

New to campus this year is the Connection Desk on the main floor of UMSU University Centre. The student staff are happy to help with any questions you might have – whether you’re trying to find a building or room, you’re looking for academic or personal supports, you want information about events and activities, or just need to be pointed in the right direction. Check it out!

We have lots of resources for first year undergraduate students.

• Follow the First Year Centre on social: @umfirstyearcentre for updated information, events, contests and more!
• Check out UM Commons - whether your questions are related to academics, campus life, or personal matters this webpage is packed full of helpful information.

In order to stay on track this term, I encourage you to bookmark this important dates and deadlines webpage.

The University of Manitoba General Bursary application for the 2024-25 academic year is now available through the Aurora Student Portal (Aurora Classic). This application, with supporting documentation, must be submitted by the October 1 deadline. See Financial Aid and Awards for detailed information.

Libraries are key to student success. At UM we have seven Libraries on the Fort Garry and Bannatyne campuses! Our Libraries are open and staff are looking forward to welcoming you with, resources, workshops, and services.

Libraries also provide a variety of study spaces that are available on demand or by booking in advance. Faculties and student councils also have designated study spaces – be sure to check them out.

Things to do

A big welcome to all International students! Visit the International Centre, your home away from home, 541 UMSU University Centre. New this year is the Tony K. Lau Global Lounge, a space designed to support and connect the international student community, offer resources, and provide social events. This space is also bookable for student-led events.

New graduate students who were not able to attend one of the orientation sessions organized by the Faculty of Graduate Studies last week, it’s not too late! All presentations are available on the graduate student orientation webpage. 

The Indigenous Student Centre (ISC) welcomes all students back to campus! On Wednesday, September 11 attend Indigenous Orientation from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Migizii Agamik - Bald Eagle Lodge and the UMSU University Centre patio. To learn more about services offered through ISC visit the Indigenous student experience webpage. Follow on social: @umindigenous

Make a difference – get involved

Want to inspire others to see how sustainability can change lives in a positive way? Become a Sustainability Ambassador! Applications close September 13.

The Indigenous Circle of Empowerment (ICE) is looking for potential leaders to join for the 2024-25 academic year. If you enjoy building community, discovering personal strengths, improving your skills, and giving back to the community - ICE is looking for YOU! Applications are being accepted until September 16.

Be well

Staying active promotes a variety of health benefits and mental well-being and can help relieve stress and anxiety. Through the Sport and Rec fee, UM students can access sport and recreation facilities and attend group fitness classes at the Fort Garry and Bannatyne campuses. Students can also participate in UM REC Clubs, Intramural Sports and Adult Programs at an additional cost. Visit UM Recreation Services and take advantage of everything available to you. Follow on social @uofmrecservices.

The Sport and Rec fee also gives students full access to cheer on the Bisons at all regular season home games. Enjoy football, soccer, basketball, volleyball, hockey, and track all year long. Follow @umbisons #weareallbisons, and @umherd to learn more and to show your Bison pride!

Visit the Student Wellness Centre at 162 Extended Education. Drop by the lounge area, open to all students, to rest, recharge, connect with a peer health educator, or check out the resources to maintain your health and well-being. For more information, visit UM’s Health and Wellness website and follow @healthyuofm.

Campus information

City of Winnipeg road construction on University Crescent and ongoing campus construction on Sifton Road will result in construction-related delays. Review this information and consider the impact that it could have on your commute to Fort Garry campus. Given potential delays, it is highly recommended that you leave 15 to 20 minutes earlier.

As we start the Fall Term, each one of us has a right to feel safe, and a responsibility to do our part to ensure a safe campus for all.

• Understand expectations about respectful behaviour
• Be in the know about online safety
• Be aware of the safety resources available to you
• Download the UM Safe app
• Learn about the Safer Social Event Team

A welcoming and respectful campus environment helps our community thrive – I’m counting on each of you to do your part.

Together We are Stronger

The Sexual Violence Resource Centre reminds all students that you deserve safety and support on our campuses and off, AND you play an important role in contributing to a campus-wide culture of consent. Please ask before touching and ask before texting.

If you or someone you know needs resources or support, UM’s Sexual Violence Resource Centre(SVRC) is available to help. The SVRC uses a trauma-informed approach to offer information, resources, and supports for people who have experienced sexual violence, and for those supporting survivors. Any information you disclose is confidential and you are in control of how you want to move forward. 

How to reach the Sexual Violence Resource Centre:

Location:         537 UMSU University Centre

Hours:              Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Email:              svrc@umanitoba.ca

Phone:             204-474-6562

Stay connected

Every week, you will receive UM's student e-newsletter Student Weekly directly in your myumanitoba.ca inbox. If you are looking for information on deadlines, events, scholarships, employment opportunities, student support, and university announcements, this newsletter provides the most convenient way to access it all. You can also stay updated by following us on social media @umstudent.

Have a wonderful start to the Fall Term. Until next time!

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@umanitoba.ca: 

Student Affairs – Leaders in cultivating exceptional student experiences

I acknowledge, with humility and gratitude, that the University of Manitoba campuses are located on original lands of the Anishinaabeg, Ininew, Anisininew, Dakota and Dene peoples, and on the National Homeland of the Red River Métis. As a white settler of English and German descent I am committed to walking alongside Indigenous students, colleagues, friends, and neighbours and doing the work that is necessary to honour the truth, and contribute through meaningful action 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.