Our herd moves the world

Dear Bisons,

It’s time we stopped being so humble about the world-class university we’ve built together. In fact, we’re about to launch a bold campaign to attract more of the best and brightest to the University of Manitoba. Why? Because the world needs more Bisons—more of you.

Bisons are at the centre of entrepreneurship, finance, health care, Reconciliation, human rights, the arts and so much more. With an economic impact of $7.3 billion, we make a difference here and abroad. And as one of Canada’s top research universities, our influence only continues to grow. We are the primary source of Manitoba’s skilled professionals in fields as diverse as medicine, law, engineering, business and agriculture. This fall we welcomed a record-setting 30,859 students—proof that our community is thriving.

We not only train the talent that builds this province’s future, we’re at the centre of partnerships that find the solutions Manitobans need. In health care, for instance, we are improving access for all by increasing seats to train more physicians and physician assistants, nurses and respiratory therapists. Our recently opened Churchill Marine Observatory on the banks of Hudson Bay has UM researchers, along with others from around the world, studying the impact of melting sea ice and the opportunities of opening Manitoba as a global shipping port.

UM’s impact is global. Our researchers developed the antennas that led to smartphones. Our researchers discovered canola and new ways to store grains that benefit farmers and consumers. Now we are building spaces that push agricultural research beyond what was imagined to enhance food security around the world. We lead in public health too. In fact, our Institute for Global Public Health is one of the most influential bodies of its kind. Did you know UM has received more funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation than any other university in Canada—by a significant degree—for our work in maternal and infant health?

As Bisons, this is something to be proud of. Our Herd—alumni, students, faculty, staff, donors and partners—moves the world. We’re always on the go, charging ahead. Take a moment to reflect on what we are achieving together as the university for Manitoba. We’re at the centre of it all.

Michael Benarroch, PhD
President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Manitoba

This letter to all Manitobans will publish September 21 in the Free Press and has been slightly adapted for our UM community. As we prepare for our first reputational campaign in ten years, we wanted to share it with you to keep you informed and engaged as we embark on this exciting journey together.