We are all Bisons: UM begins brand refresh initiative for its sport and recreation units
You can help too–share your feedback online
The University of Manitoba is embarking on a process to refresh its sports and recreation brands, including Bison Sports, Mini U Programs, Junior Bisons, and UM Recreation Services. This process will explore and evolve what it means to be a Bison from each perspective while aiming to align more closely with UM’s current brand.
Sport and recreation, backed by the Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management (FKRM), actively engage with UM students, staff, faculty and alumni through various offerings. Additionally, they welcome thousands of visitors to the UM campuses through community-focused programming every year.
Mini U campers at the climbing wall.
Throughout 2024 and 2025, UM will follow a four-phase timeline beginning with community consultations and focus groups that get underway later this month.
“The impact of our programs is significant and I’m sure there are many stakeholders who are eager to contribute to this exercise,” says Douglas Brown, Dean of the Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management. “We are excited that our community will have a voice in helping us create a new era for sport and recreation at the university and in our province.”
The Bisons, notably one of the most recognizable competitive sports groups in our province, have embraced their vision to empower each other to step up every day in pursuit of excellence.
A Junior Bison basketball player in her competition jersey.
“Across the city, province and country, the bison represents strength and commitment,” says Gene Muller, Director of Athletics and Recreation. “A brand refresh will continue to harness the Bison’s symbol of our student-athletes, coaches and support staff’s commitment to excellence, both on the field of play and off.”
“We are looking forward to honouring the legacy of the bison while giving it a fresh and creative update,” says Doug Brown. This will help bring the sport and recreation brands closer to the core identity of the university and strengthen the unity of our community.”
Share your feedback
Throughout the consultation and research phase, opportunities will be available online to provide insights and opinions for the future direction of the sport and recreation family of brands.
A feedback form has been created to gather your feedback. Visit the brand website for more information, process updates and to share your thoughts.
Sign-up to join us for one of the upcoming focus group sessions in August or September.