A legacy of support

At the University of Manitoba (UM), the power of scholarships, bursaries, and awards extends far beyond financial aid. These opportunities inspire, motivate, and empower students to pursue their big ideas, achieve academic excellence, and become future leaders. Thanks to the generosity of UM’s donors and alumni community, these awards offer life-changing support to students across all disciplines while enhancing the university’s legacy as a nurturing environment for exceptional talent. 

By the numbers: 

• 1,600 – First year students who receive entrance scholarships each year 

• 6,486 – Total number of donors from 20 countries  

• 3,000 – Number of awards you can find in the UM awards database  

• $40 million – Value of awards given out by UM each year 

• $14 million – Value of bursaries given out by UM each year 

• $1.045 billion – Current value of Endowment Fund 

Enhancing Student Engagement and Overall Academic Success 

The importance of scholarships, bursaries, and awards cannot be overstated. They can provide financial stability, reducing the stress and anxiety associated with tuition fees, books, housing, and other educational expenses. Research has shown that when students have their basic needs met, they are more likely to experience improved mental and physical well-being. This can lead to better concentration, higher levels of motivation, and an overall more positive attitude toward learning.  

Financial support through scholarships can also help students feel more connected to their educational institution. They may perceive that the institution cares about their success, which can foster a sense of belonging and motivation to engage in campus activities and coursework. They also promote diversity and inclusion by providing opportunities to underrepresented groups. When students from diverse backgrounds have access to higher education through scholarships, it enriches the learning environment for all students and promotes cross-cultural understanding. At the same time, these opportunities ensure that the University of Manitoba remains a hub for world-class talent and a leader in academic achievement. 

Finally, scholarships and bursaries can sometimes come with additional benefits, such as access to mentorship programs, research opportunities, or internships. These resources can enhance a student’s educational experience and engagement by providing valuable learning opportunities. 

The Impact of Donor Generosity Exemplified 

• The BMO Financial Group Indigenous Leaders of Tomorrow scholarships annually recognize and reward some of the brightest Indigenous high school graduates in Canada. These prestigious awards not only support the academic journey of students but also recognize their leadership, vision, and commitment to community. With this recognition, Indigenous students are encouraged to continue breaking barriers, pursue their dreams, and become role models for the next generation. 

• The transformative contributions of Dr. Gerry [BSc(ME)/70, MSc/72, LLD(Hon)/17] and Barbara [BHEc/69, CertEd/70] Price led to the creation of several targeted scholarships, such as the Price Industries Ltd. Entrance Scholarship for Engineering and the Price Engineering Access Bursaries for Indigenous Students, ensuring that diverse and talented students have access to engineering education. 

• In recognition of Hartley T. Richardson’s [BComm(Hons)/77, LLD/04] achievements and the support of his family, friends, and fellow alumni, the Hartley T. Richardson Student Support Fund was established in 2019. The Hartley T. Richardson International Travel Bursary and Bachelor of Commerce Bursary help students gain global experiences and succeed in the competitive field of commerce. 

• The Alumni Association Scholarships, which include the Entrance Scholarship, Community Leadership Scholarship, and Graduate Fellowship, recognize and support students at different stages of their academic journey. Whether they are first-year undergraduates or PhD candidates, UM students benefit from the generosity of alumni who have walked the same paths and now wish to give back to the community that shaped them. 

• The Schulich Leader Scholarships have been awarded to two incoming students each year since 2012. These scholarships, valued at $80,000 and $100,000, are offered to undergraduate students pursuing studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). The Schulich Leader Scholarships empower students to take on new challenges, innovate, and pursue careers that will shape the future of these critical fields. 

Building a Brighter Future Together 

None of these scholarships, bursaries, and awards would be possible without the generosity and vision of UM’s donors. The impact of their gifts resonates in every student who walks across the graduation stage, every groundbreaking research project, and every community initiative that comes to life through their support. Countless alumni and friends of the university have created a legacy that will continue to shape the future of UM and its students for generations to come. 

Their generosity has sparked opportunities, and their belief in UM’s mission has fueled success. As the university looks to the future, the continued support of UM’s visionary donors will be integral to shaping the leaders, innovators, and change-makers of tomorrow. 

Learn more about the scholarships, bursaries, and awards available at UM on the Financial Aid and Awards website. 

Emily Janssens