University of Manitoba - Office of the President - Introduction
Introduction
Introduction

The University of Manitoba was established almost 140 years ago, and with the passage of An Act to establish a Provincial University (1877), became the first degree-granting institution west of southern Ontario. The Act described the University's purpose as "raising the standard of higher education in the province, and of enabling all denominations and classes to obtain academical degrees".

Echoes of this early statement of purpose remain in the University of Manitoba's current mission: To create, preserve, communicate and apply knowledge, contributing to the cultural, social and economic well-being of the people of Manitoba, Canada and the world.

It is still the case, as it was then, that the University seeks to meet Manitoba's needs. In 1877, this was defined simply as a need for a degree-granting body, to raise the standard of higher education. From this foundation however has grown a University with a role that far exceeds its initial mission. The University of Manitoba now offers a wide range of programs to its students, of whom 80 per cent still come from within Manitoba and, after graduation, pursue their careers here, becoming our next generation of cultural, community, business and government leaders.

At the same time, it now shares this excellence in education with students from around the world, and actively seeks to engage as part of the interconnected international community, through research partnerships, student and academic exchanges and the pursuit of solutions to challenges faced globally. The University of Manitoba offers a strong foundation in the liberal arts and sciences as part of its broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Many of these programs, particularly the professional programs, are unique within the province. In addition, as Manitoba's only research (medical-doctoral) university, the University of Manitoba's role within the provincial post-secondary system is defined by the extent of its provision of graduate education and its extensive research enterprise. The University dominates the Manitoba research landscape and ranks among Canada's most research-intensive universities, with world-class faculty who connect their expertise to local, national and international needs and provide students with a uniquely enriched educational experience. Over $1.8 billion in annual economic activity in the province is attributable to the University of Manitoba, making it one of the most important contributors to the province's prosperity.

The University of Manitoba has evolved over 140 years to meet the unique needs and challenges of the Province and, unlike its early beginnings, fully recognizes the diversity of the people of Manitoba, particularly the Indigenous population. The University is engaged in a comprehensive effort to attract and retain more Indigenous students, faculty and staff, incorporate Indigenous perspectives and knowledge within its program offerings, and honour First Nations, Métis and Inuit traditions and cultures in its spaces.

Mission, Vision and Values

Mission, Vision and Values

Mission

To create, preserve, communicate and apply knowledge, contributing to the cultural, social and economic well-being of the people of Manitoba, Canada and the world.

Vision

To take our place among leading universities through a commitment to transformative research and scholarship and innovative teaching and learning, uniquely strengthened by Indigenous knowledge and perspectives.

Values

To achieve our vision, we require a commitment to a common set of ideals. The University of Manitoba values:

  • Academic Freedom
  • Accountability
  • Collegiality
  • Equity and Inclusion
  • Excellence
  • Innovation
  • Integrity
  • Respect
  • Sustainability