They gave in multiple ways—through their faculties, ongoing individual gifts, and pledges from the University of Manitoba Students’ Union (UMSU) and the University of Manitoba Graduate Students’ Association (UMGSA). And in doing so, they put students front and centre. It’s so important students invest in students, says Tanjit Nagra [BA/18], former UMSU president who was at the helm to announce the union’s largest gift ever—$16.22 million—which contributed to the $46.4 million total tally. “It is a message of empowerment,” she says. “We as students only have so much to give, but are doing what we can to help one another succeed.” This giving is set to have a big impact—from boosting student services to doubling undergrad research opportunities.

Taylor Morriseau [BSc(Hons)/17], 25 (left)

PhD student in pharmacology and therapeutics//researching Type 2 diabetes in Indigenous youth//received scholarships through campaign//first in her family to pursue a PhD

“Every contribution matters, from the smallest to the biggest donors.”

Anas Alkassim, 21 (right)

fourth-year architecture student studying interior design//came alone to Canada from Syria in 2016//feels grateful to now be a permanent resident and believes in always lifting others up

“Giving back is something we have to do every day. We are humans. We care for each other no matter what.”

Faouzia Ouihya, 19

second-year computer engineering student//singer-songwriter with a major record deal with Atlantic Records//says giving comes from within

“Philanthropy is helping in any way you can and it being from the goodness of your heart, not just something you do to say that you did it or to benefit from it…. To genuinely do good because you want to.”

Carl Neumann, 37

UMGSA president//master’s student in philosophy//is excited about how the campaign will help recruit the brightest students and improve campus spaces

“Philanthropy is building our community together.”

Cristine Vlcek, 29

graduate student in kinesiology and recreation management//studying sex education and critical- race theory//says students should advocate for one another

“At the end of the day, you’re opening up the doors of opportunity for other people who want to come in and learn—and opening up the doors for yourself.”

Wilfred Sam-King [BA/19], 27

former UMSU vice-president (external)//sprinter, long-jumper//Olympic hopeful//was involved in campaign early on and recalls growing momentum

“Scholarships, bursaries, research grants, the daycare centre—when those things became reality, it was amazing.”