President Barnard meets with mayoral candidates
The University of Manitoba is proud of its strong relationship with City Council and the Mayor of Winnipeg, and looks forward to growing that relationship into the future.
University of Manitoba’s President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. David Barnard met with five mayoral candidates in recent weeks to discuss each one’s vision for that relationship.
Issues like rapid transit, infrastructure funding, internship opportunities for students and engaging researchers were all on the table.
“The University of Manitoba plays a central role in the growth and overall success of our city,” said Barnard. “We educate the work force, engage the community, and provide valuable expertise and support in areas such as infrastructure renewal, flood mitigation, urban planning and arts and culture.”
The U of M generates at least $1.8 billion in economic activity and attracts nearly $160 million annually in sponsored research income per year. The university is a key economic driver, and it creates direct and indirect employment for more than 17,000 people in Winnipeg. As well, the sports fields, arena, pool and gymnasia on campus are used by community groups and sports teams throughout the year, helping to relieve some of the pressure on municipal services.
“Each candidate expressed a strong desire to work with the university if elected,” said Barnard. “I am confident that whoever becomes Winnipeg’s next mayor will help facilitate a strong partnership between the University of Manitoba and City Hall.”
President Barnard met with Brian Bowman, Paula Havixbeck, Robert-Falcon Ouellette, Gord Steeves and Judy Wasylycia-Leis.
“I encourage each member of our university community to vote in the civic election on Oct. 22,” said Barnard. “We all share a responsibility to contribute to the democratic process, and to help decide who will shape our city’s future.”