Happy 2024, Bisons. I hope you had a restful break and are ready for the upcoming term, whether you are returning or beginning your studies at UM. 

During the break, news of the death of UM international student, Afolabi Stephen Opaso marked a very tragic and sad end to 2023. My heart goes out to Afolabi’s family and friends, and to students, staff and faculty who are impacted by Afolabi’s passing. If you or a student close to you is struggling or in crisis, please reach out to one of the many supports and services available to UM students. 

As Winter term commences, there are a variety of programs, events, and activities designed to engage you and enhance your success. Be sure to explore the many opportunities within your formal classes and beyond.

The University of Manitoba Students’ Union (UMSU) is hosting many events to welcome you back, from January 8 to 12. For example, they are offering free breakfast daily at 9:30 a.m. on the first floor of the UMSU University Centre, along with the Winter Vendor Fair from 9 a.m.to 4 p.m. daily. The week will end with a Pajama Party on January 13. Visit @myumsu on Instagram or the UMSU website for all the details and to buy tickets.

Here are some of the events that are coming up in the next few weeks, and highlights of the many services and supports available to you as a UM student.  

If you are a new student, check out UM Commons, a site filled with resources and helpful tips to support you in making a successful transition to the University of Manitoba. Stay connected to what’s happening across our campuses:

· Check your inbox every Tuesday for UM’s student e-newsletter Student Weekly.

· Follow @umstudent on Instagram and TikTok.

· UM Today, the UM news site, posts stories daily. Keep up to date on everything you need to know about UM by bookmarking this site.

The International Centre (IC) is holding a number of welcome sessions for new international students from January 8 to 18, including a late orientation session for those who were not able to attend on January 5. The IC team is also looking forward to meeting you on January 11 at the Meet the IC for Coffee and Tea. Back by popular demand is the winter clothing display, which helps international students learn more about the clothes you need to stay warm in Winnipeg this winter.

Attending to your mental health and well-being throughout your time at UM is important. Whether you want to add some tools to your self-care toolkit or need immediate help, there is support for you throughout your studies, regardless of your level of need. I also encourage you to drop by the new Student Wellness Centre at 162 Extended Education Building. Check the website for hours and updates.

Boost your physical and mental health with Recreation Services. As a student, you have access to state-of-the-art fitness facilities in a welcoming and inclusive environment, conveniently located on campus. To activate your student gym access, simply log in to your Aurora account, fill out the gym waiver, and you’ll be notified when your pass is active. It’s that easy!

Indigenous student programming gives you the opportunity to get involved, with holistic programs, services and supports for First Nations, Métis and Inuit students. Follow the Indigenous events calendar for cultural learning and other activities.

UM’s Annual Career Fair co-hosted by Career Services and the Asper School of Business will take place in UMSU University Centre on January 16 and 17. Connect with employers, explore potential career opportunities, network with the business community, and learn how your formal education and out-of-class experiences help you to prepare for future employment.

UM is pleased to offer students the opportunity to live in a new country, learn a new language and work in a new culture with the McCall MacBain Foundation International Fellowship. This award provides up to $30,000 in funding to experience a year abroad, departing in the summer of 2024. The application deadline is January 12, 2024.

Calling all grad students! Three Minute Thesis (3MT)/Ma these en 180 secondes applications are now open ! These competitions are unique opportunities for graduate students to showcase your research to a wider audience across disciplines within the University, and to the broader public, with the possibility of winning some great cash prizes. Applications close January 29, 2024.

Mini U Programs is hiring! Applications are now being accepted for summer positions, including supervisors, leaders, lifeguards, and coaches. Develop transferrable skills and make important connections on campus – consider joining the Mini U team now!  

Cheer on the Bisons every weekend! Get a group of friends together and be a part of the action. It’s a great way to socialize and support the UM Bisons. Claim your free tickets online. For full schedule details, visit gobisons.ca and follow the @UMHERD for on-the-ground coverage of Bison pride in action!

Wishing you a productive, inspiring term. I’m looking forward to seeing you around campus!

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@umanitoba.ca: 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, Cree, Ojibwe-Cree, 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 to lasting positive change.

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