Message from Laurie Schnarr, Vice-Provost (Students)

Dear Bisons,

I am reaching out before the university closes for the winter break to congratulate you on making it to the end of the fall term.  I hope you have opportunities to connect with the people and places that give you joy, and to engage in activities that are restorative and fulfilling.

As you head into this well-deserved break, here are a few things to keep in mind:

The university will close at 4:30 p.m. on December 23 and will reopen on January 5, 2026. Winter Term classes start on January 6, 2025. For specifics about which services remain open over the holiday break, visit the facilities web page.

Many of you may still have work or other commitments during the holidays, but I encourage you to carve out time for self-care. Whether you’re catching up on books or shows, spending time with loved ones, enjoying outdoor activities like hiking, skating, skiing, or snowboarding, or baking your favourite treats—whatever helps you recharge, make sure to enjoy it! If you’re staying in Winnipeg and want ideas for winter fun, check out the Tourism Winnipeg webpage on local activities and tips for embracing the season.

The holiday break is a great time to be active and support your mental and physical well-being. The Sport and Rec fee gives all UM students access to sport and recreation facilities, casual rec use spaces, and group fitness classes on both the Fort Garry and Bannatyne campuses. You can also take advantage of the many UM REC Clubs, Intramural Sports, and Adult programs available for an additional cost. Check out UM Recreation Services to learn more and find hours of operation during the break.

Graduate students: If you’re interested in sharpening your public speaking skills and presenting your research in a concise, engaging way, consider joining the 2026 3-Minute Thesis competition. It’s a fantastic chance to showcase your work, compete for cash prizes, and have fun. More information is available on the 3MT webpage.

Wishing you a restful, safe, and enjoyable holiday—and a happy new year! I look forward to welcoming everyone back to campus in 2026.

Take 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

Tel: 204.474.6919

Confidential Assistant – vp.students@umanitoba.ca Phone: 204.474.6917

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.

The information contained in this transmission is confidential and intended only for the use of the individual or entity to whom it is addressed.  If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately and permanently delete the original message, attachments and all copies.