UM researchers are Bisons at the centre of bold ideas

Dear Manitobans, 

WE’RE NEEDED. 

As an Arctic province and gateway for the North. As the innovators in sustainable agriculture. As the home of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation. We’re needed, just as Manitobans have always been. 

Manitobans see what others miss and we act upon it. Bold ideas have always been born here, and this culture became the foundation of our university. We’re celebrating this and how the University for Manitoba sees the world differently; how Bisons look past the surface, defy convention, and think big.  

It’s why UM receives more funding from the Gates Foundation than any other Canadian university for our extraordinary work in global public health. It’s why UM researchers once looked at a tobacco leaf and saw a cure for Ebola and why we are now building a state-of-the-art biomanufacturing lab. It’s why UM researchers looked at a drone as a new way to expand internet access across the North. It’s why we looked at microgreens and saw a defense against diabetes.  

Bisons see solutions no one imagined.  

We have a history of excellence and unstoppable momentum. And we’re showcasing not only what we have done, but what we will do next. Last year, you may have seen our alumni “Bisons at the Centre” campaign. Starting soon, you will see our newest campaign highlighting the impact of UM research and how seeing things differently matters to Manitobans and the world: “Bisons at the centre of bold ideas.”

Join us as we celebrate our place at the centre of bold ideas. Be proud of what Manitoba’s university has done, and what we are about to do together.  

Sincerely, 

Michael Benarroch 

President and Vice-Chancellor 

This letter to all Manitobans will be published on September 20 in the Free Press and Brandon Sun and has been slightly adapted for our UM community. As we prepare to launch the research portion of our reputational campaign, we want to share this with you in advance as we continue this exciting journey together.