Campus Life program celebrates 20 years
Program fosters inclusive education and belonging for diverse learners.
This year marks a significant milestone for the University of Manitoba’s Campus Life program as it celebrates two decades of fostering inclusivity and diversity within the academic community. Established in 2004 by the Faculty of Education, the program has been instrumental in supporting students with intellectual, developmental, and multiple disabilities, offering them the opportunity to audit courses and fully engage in university life.
A vision for inclusive education
The inception of the Campus Life program was rooted in the belief that post-secondary education should be accessible to all, regardless of intellectual or developmental challenges. The program is an extension of the inclusive education concept practiced in regular elementary and secondary classrooms. By integrating these students into regular university courses, the program not only enriches their educational experience but also enhances the diversity of the student body, promoting a culture of acceptance and understanding.
Campus Life student Nicole Roberts enjoys an authentic University experience with adaptations that suit her needs.
Adapted with authenticity
The program is designed to give students an authentic post-secondary experience while tailoring requirements to meet their specific needs and abilities. Campus Life students participate as “auditors” by attending and participating in classes, completing assignments, and taking exams. Student mentors and the Director work with instructors to adapt course content to ensure Campus Life students feel challenged and fulfilled by their studies. Students also have the chance to engage with student groups and extracurricular activities. A significant milestone in inclusive post-secondary education was reached when Campus Life students were officially acknowledged by the University of Manitoba for completing their programs of study and for the first time marched alongside other university graduates in the 2011 spring convocation ceremony.
Director, Trevi Freeze, stands with Campus Life student, Ian, at convocation.
Celebrating student achievements
The true testament to the program’s impact lies in the successes and personal growth of its students. Take, for instance, the journey of Jesse Penner, a graduate of the Campus Life program. Between September 2013 and April 2018, Jesse audited eleven courses with a special interest in business.
Reflecting on his experience, Jesse shares, “If it wasn’t for this auditing program and its people, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Not just the knowledge I gained, but also their kindness, encouragement, and dedication towards helping others to extend their education in a way that it is possible for them to join the university.” Jesse’s journey led him to a fulfilling role as an Administrative Office Assistant at Community Living Manitoba, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism.
Another inspiring story is that of Duke, whose participation in the Campus Life program has been transformative. Duke’s academic journey has been diverse, with courses ranging from psychology to anthropology. “It gave me a sense of purpose and direction in my life. It helped me understand the world better.”
Other stories show how students continue on successfully after their university studies. Like Danny who pursued his passion for polar bears by joining a research expedition in Churchill, MB, and Heidi, who went onto to work at a senior citizen’s complex as an assistant to a nutritionist for a number of years and now works as a University of Manitoba as a caretaker – a job she is fiercely proud of.
These narratives underscore the profound impact of the Campus Life program on its students, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and support necessary to navigate both academic and personal challenges.
Campus Life student Danny studied polar bears in Churchill after his studies at the U of M.
The role of tutors: Bridging gaps and building connections
Central to the success of the Campus Life program are the dedicated tutors who work closely with students, providing academic support and fostering a sense of belonging. These tutors, often university students themselves, bring a unique blend of empathy, knowledge, and enthusiasm to their roles.
The Campus lLife experience is valued by the mentors as much as the student participants. Says current Campus Life tutor Anusha, “I learned many great qualities such as dedication, passion, and fulfilling curiosity. It was a huge part of my university life and one of the greatest things that happened in my life. Having human interactions and supporting amazing people with their academic and social participation on campus was a truly rewarding experience.”
Campus Life tutors provide academic support while fostering a sense of belonging.
Breaking barriers and building equality
Looking at these inspiring stories, the progressive journey of everyone involved with the Campus Life program epitomizes not merely a policy shift, but a profound societal transformation that champions belonging, equity, dignity, and the inherent worth of every individual within the educational realm. From the historic inclusion of women to the integration of individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, those with physical disabilities, learning challenges, mental health conditions, and most recently, individuals with intellectual disabilities, the program underscores a commitment to dismantling barriers and fostering a truly inclusive academic environment. The University of Manitoba, Faculty of Education, and the Campus Life program have been leaders in the inclusive post-secondary education movement.
Looking ahead: The future of Campus Life
As they celebrate our 20th year milestone, the Campus Life program aims to convey a message of profound significance to the broader university community. They stand as a testament to the enduring values of belonging, inclusivity, and diversity that have shaped our journey over the past two decades.
Director Freeze encapsulates this vision, “through shared achievements and stories of our Campus Life students, we witness firsthand the beauty of diversity and the strength that comes from embracing inclusivity at the post-secondary level. Campus Life students are fiercely proud to be a part of the University of Manitoba “herd” and community. With them, Campus Life reinforces their collective commitment to building a community where every individual, regardless of background or ability, has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully.”
Looking ahead, their continued commitment is one of unity in diversity, of breaking down barriers and fostering a community where every individual, regardless of background or ability, is not just included but valued for their unique contributions. They celebrate not just our achievements but the collective efforts that have propelled them forward, embracing change and progress along the way.
A Campus Life 20th Anniversary will be held on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 where students and mentors from past and present, donors, organizers, university administrators, and government dignitaries will gather to recognize this momentous milestone.
Be a part of the the next 20 years of inclusive education and community by making a donation to Campus Life today.