Get to Know UM’s Student Support services
Student Advocacy and Case Management, Student Accessibility Services
Being in university is a time of new beginnings, challenging experiences and life-changing events. Making your mark on the world takes a collaborative effort and there are support systems in place to help you. Here are two of UM’s Student Support units geared towards helping you succeed academically and personally at every step in this journey.
Student Advocacy and Case Management
Maintaining a fair working and learning environment for everyone at UM is a top priority, and students have a critical role in this goal. Student Advocacy and Case Management assists students in navigating university processes, advocating for your rights and understanding your responsibilities as students.
Students may experience some challenges that can inhibit their ability to succeed academically, which could arise from decisions made by administration or other issues within the UM environment. When this happens, students have the right to respond to the situation and do so in a way that upholds respect for everyone involved, including themselves. Student Advocacy and Case Management can help students figure out the best approach in these situations.
They assist students through processes such as authorized withdrawals, leaves of absence, academic misconduct allegations, appealing final grades and disciplinary decisions made by the university. When reaching out for help, it doesn’t necessarily mean a student has admitted to doing something wrong. Instead, it simply means that you’re looking for guidance in properly navigating a process or situation.
Advocacy also means your needs and privacy are important. Everything you disclose is kept completely confidential. Connecting with the office begins with an appointment with the Confidential Intake Assistant, which can be booked by calling (204) 474-7423 or by contacting stadv [at] umanitoba [dot] ca.
Student Accessibility Services
Every student deserves to have an outstanding student experience, where fostering an accessible learning environment is a priority. At UM, Student Accessibility Services (SAS) supports this mission by promoting accessibility and implementing accommodations for students with disabilities. Some arrangements include different paths to completing tasks, helping students work more efficiently and using strengths to break through perceived barriers.
SAS works closely with students and instructors to create accommodation plans across all programs at UM. These partnerships are made possible with the help of supportive faculty and student volunteers. The Volunteer Notetaking Program connects student volunteers with fellow students who need assistance through notes taken for them in class.
A wide range of programs and supports are also offered, including ASL-English Interpreters, transcriptionists, assistive technologies, accessible documents, exam accommodations, convocation assistance and more.
Students who need accessibility resources are encouraged to reach out to SAS as early as possible, in order for SAS to arrange for academic accommodations and ensure a successful university experience. For more information on accessibility assistance, contact student_accessibility [at] umanitoba [dot] ca.