Sent on behalf of Paul Tokar, RT President, CoRS Student Association.

Hi Everyone, From March 12 to March 13, you’re invited to take part in an important decision that will help shape student opportunities in the Department of Respiratory Therapy. The 2026 Student Referendum asks you to vote on whether to participate in the Student Giving Program, a student-led and supported initiative that helps fund opportunities and experiences that enhance student life within our program. The Respiratory Therapy Student Giving Program supports two types of funds that benefit students in different ways:

1. Student Initiative Fund This fund supports immediate, student-led priorities that aren’t typically covered by regular operating budgets, including:

· Conferences, workshops, guest speakers and professional development opportunities

· travel related expenses for academic or clinical learning

· student-led projects and initiatives

· equipment or resources that enhance our student experience

1. Endowment Fund The Endowment Fund is a long-term investment in future students. Contributions are invested, and the earnings are used over time to support student bursaries and financial support Together, these funds balance short-term impact with long-term support for the Department of Respiratory Therapy. What’s being proposed for 2026 Students are being asked to vote on the following proposed terms:

* Contribution: $150 collected automatically alongside tuition. * Fund designations: * 80% to the Student Initiative Fund * 20% to the Endowment Fund * Term length: 3 years Why your vote matters This referendum is about choice and impact. By voting, you’re helping decide whether students collectively invest in opportunities that support learning, professional growth, and community within Respiratory Therapy. Whatever the outcome, the decision will reflect the voices of students who take the time to participate.

Voting opens: March 12 at 12:01 a.m. CST Voting closes: March 13 at 11:59 p.m. CST Vote online via: Simply Voting

Have questions or want to learn more? Reach out to tokarp@myumanitoba.camailto:tokarp@myumanitoba.ca. Thank you for taking the time to be informed and involved. Your voice matters—make it count.

Warmly, Paul Tokar Respiratory Therapy Student (BRT2) College of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Manitoba tokarp@myumanitoba.camailto:tokarp@myumanitoba.ca