Reflecting on a momentous year
Looking back at some of the events–and emotions–that made it special.
2025 was marked by celebration, reflection and continued action toward Reconciliation.
We saw record-setting Indigenous student enrolment, milestone anniversaries and meaningful advances in policies and practices that lay the groundwork for lasting, structural change. Gratitude carried us through each season, bringing moments of celebration and remembrance, growth and connection.
In honour of the 13 Grandmother Moons that guided us through the year, here are 13 moments from the UM Indigenous Campus Community in 2025!
Launched Time for Action: UM’s Truth and Reconciliation Framework
UM took a significant step forward with the launch of Time for Action: UM’s Truth and Reconciliation Framework. The framework provides shared direction and accountability to embed Reconciliation across teaching, research, policy and campus life, in partnership with First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities.
Celebrated Indigenous Excellence across campus community
During an afternoon of heartfelt recognition, ten members of the Indigenous campus community—including six students, two staff members, one faculty member and one legacy honouree—were celebrated as part of National Indigenous Peoples Day. Each was recognized for leading transformational change and weaving Indigenous knowledges into all they do. Their work, spanning healthcare, education, science, architecture and more, reflects the powerful impact of Indigenous leadership grounded in knowledge, community and care.
Kookum Karen Courchene congratulates Desiree Morrisseau-Keesick, 2025 staff honouree, at the blanketing ceremony.
Honoured Indigenous graduates in ceremony and community
The 36th Annual Traditional Graduation Pow Wow brought community together to celebrate the academic achievements of First Nations, Métis and Inuit graduates. This cherished gathering uplifted the accomplishments of over 470 Indigenous students graduating this year, while honouring cultural traditions, community connection and student leadership.
Indigenous graduates receive their stoles at the 36th Graduation Pow Wow.
Keeping space for healing, learning and action in honour of MMIWG2S+
The UM community joined the national movement to honour Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Peoples. Through ceremony, storytelling and research, events invited reflection while calling the campus to ongoing responsibility and action.
Marked 10 years of stewarding truth at the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
Ten years ago, Survivors’ testimonies, sacred items and archival records from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada found a permanent home at the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) at UM. As the host of the NCTR, UM goes beyond just keeping records safe; we’re a partner in advancing truth and reconciliation through education, research and community-led initiatives.
Elders, Survivors and supporters gather outside the NCTR for its opening in November 2015.
Strengthened campus identity by expanding UM’s iconic bison herd
We added new layers of creativity and authenticity to the herd with two new Indigenous-designed bison illustrations by artists Peatr Thomas and Jordan Stranger. More than a symbol, they carry stories of strength, resilience and belonging—values shared across the UM community. Stay tuned for two more illustrations in 2026!
Welcomed nearly 400 future learners at the New Buffalo Education Gathering
For the third year, the New Buffalo Education Gathering welcomed nearly 400 Indigenous high school students to campus. The event strengthened pathways to post-secondary education through connection, encouragement and community-driven support.
Two high school students smile before lunch at the New Buffalo Education Gathering.
Honoured 50 years of Indigenous Studies built through student advocacy
What began as a small student movement at UM in the early 1970s is now the heart of Indigenous academics and research in Western Canada. 50 years ago, a small group of Indigenous students at the University of Manitoba made their voices heard — demanding their languages, histories and ways of knowing be recognized. Their courage built what is now the Department of Indigenous Studies: a space for scholarship, resurgence and community. Generations later, their legacy continues.
Elders honoured with star blankets at Indigenous Studies 50th anniversary celebration.
Centered community relationships through Researching in Good Ways
Community is at the forefront of research with the launch of Researching in Good Ways. This Indigenous-led initiative invites those involved in research with Indigenous communities to come together in respectful land reciprocal ways.
Secured $5 million to scale Indigenous innovation in education
A $5 million gift from the Mastercard Foundation positioned UM to sustain and accelerate post-secondary education for Indigenous young people, their families, their communities and beyond. The gift is part of the Foundation’s $235 million strategic investment to recognize organizations that are leaders in advancing education for Indigenous youth across Canada.
Empowering the next generation of Indigenous leaders
Indigenous student leaders were celebrated as one leadership cohort completed their journey and another began. For more than a decade, programs like Bison Spirit and the Indigenous Circle of Empowerment have supported culturally grounded leadership rooted in listening, responsibility and community engagement.
Indigenous Leadership Programming students came together at the Leaf for a meaningful gathering celebrating Indigenous leadership and growth.
Progress with Respectful Rematriation and Repatriation Ceremony (RRRC)
The RRRC co-council made positive strides, hosting an All Nations ‘Bringing Our Ancestors Home’ Gathering, beginning of returning Ancestors in MB and another province, and commemorative art installed at UM Fort Garry campus.
Creating space for belonging through art
The growing collection of Indigenous-designed murals continues to shape how community members experience campus. These designs carry meaning that goes beyond aesthetics, inviting everyone on campus to engage with Indigenous art and worldviews in ways that are accessible, lasting and contribute to a sense of belonging.
Newest mural in the student residences on the Fort Garry campus by Jackie Traverse, Ojibway artist and UM alum.
…and so much more. From alumni making impact in community and beyond, to staff and faculty championing students, to Elders and Knowledge Keepers offering guidance and care—this work is carried by many hands. Together, the UM Indigenous Campus Community continues to build a space where Indigenous excellence, learning and belonging thrive.