Message from Laurie Schnarr, Vice-Provost (Students)

Welcome Back Bisons!!

I hope Reading Week was a restful and productive break for you.

Here are a few activities taking place this week as you ease back into your studies and finish the Winter term strong. Be sure to check out the events calendar for more happenings throughout the term:

• Pause for Paws – Drop by the Student Wellness Centre February 25 to unwind and relax with some furry friends!
• Drop-In Study Session with Writing Tutors & Librarians – Get assistance with your research and writing assignments on February 25, no appointment necessary.
• Destigmatizing Non-Academic Career Pathways – Join the Grad student Conversation Circle February 25 to explore non-academic career paths, challenge unspoken expectations, and talk openly about uncertainty, curiosity and “what else is out there”.
• Interview Preparation Workshop – Attend this interactive virtual workshop on February 26 to become better prepared and to practice interview skills.
• Pause and Play – Join the Student Wellness Centre February 26 for a board and card game hour to unwind, connect and refresh your mind. Whether you join to compete or just connect, there is a seat at the table for you.
• Pathways for Institutional Change at UM – Register for this teach-in with Vice-Provost (Equity) Tina Chen and Vice-Provost (Students) Laurie Schnarr. To make change at the university, you need to know how it works! Learn about the UM governance structure, hear stories of successful student-led campaigns, and join the Q&A on Friday, February 27^th from 1-2:30pm. 

Looking beyond the first week back, March 2 to 6 is Student Success Week, organized to highlight workshops, supports, and resources that can help you maintain your momentum and finish the Winter term successfully. To help you find those support offices, participate in a Scavenger Hunt on March 4 and 5. Be sure to register ahead of time and explore the Student Success Week website to learn how to connect and find support.

On a final note, this is an important time for students interested in running for election – at the faculty level and at UMSU.  I congratulate all students who decide to actively engage in student governance and throw their hat in the ring. I encourage you to take some time to read up on those running in the elections and be sure to participate with your vote during the coming weeks. Your voice matters – your vote matters.

I wish you all the best during these last weeks of the Winter term. You’ve got this, Bisons!

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

Tel: 204.474.6919

Student Affairs – We empower learners to achieve their highest potential

Read our new Strategic Plan: Reimagining the Student Experience at UM (2025-2030) here

I acknowledge, with humility and gratitude, that the University of Manitoba campuses and research spaces are located on original lands of the Anishinaabeg, Ininewak, Anisininewuk, Dakota Oyate, Dene and Inuit, 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.