Blankstein Momentum Program

The Indigenous Student Centre is pleased to offer the Blankstein Momentum Program (Momentum) for returning Indigenous (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) students. The program provides access to support that contributes to post-secondary persistence, overall well-being and personal success.

A student is on a laptop while two other students look over their shoulder.

Is the Blankstein Momentum Program for me?

Momentum uses a holistic approach that includes biweekly workshops, advisor meetings, access to tutors, community activities and cultural/spiritual care.

The program runs from late August to the beginning of April and there is no cost to participate. *Maximum intake is 25 students per academic year and priority will be given to those who have not been apart of the program before.

The program is currently accepting applications for the 2025-2026 academic year. Successful applicants will be notified at the beginning of July via their UM student email address so that they can consider the timing of the program when course planning for the upcoming academic year.

If you are a former Qualico Bridge to Success student or an Indigenous student looking to get back on track, elevate your GPA or connect with your Indigenous community, Momentum provides you with the tools you need to succeed.

Requirements and incentives

Requirements

Students committing to the Blankstein Momentum Program are required to:

  • Attend a mandatory orientation session (mid - August)*
  • Attend bi-weekly learning workshops (Wednesdays at 4:30 -6:30 p.m., September- April)
  • Develop an Academic Success Plan within the first two weeks of classes
  • Check-in with the Momentum Program Coordinator once per term
  • Attend one meeting with the ISC Learning and Reading Strategist once per term
  • Attend one meeting with a Career Counsellor (Fall term)
  • Attend two Indigenous community activities
  • Visit with an Elder-in-Residence (optional)

*Students must attend the Blankstein Momentum Program Orientation to be eligible to continue in the program. Orientation dates/times:

  • Tuesday, August 19 (9 - 3 p.m.) @ Migizii Agamik, 114 Sidney Smith St.

Students will also have the option of attending a Community Culture Day on Tuesday, August 26 (9 - 3 p.m.). More details to be emailed to successful applicants in August.

Incentives

Students who complete all Fall term program requirements are eligible for 1 of 2 tuition prize draws valued at $500 each.

Students who complete all program requirements (Fall and Winter terms) are eligible for 1 of 5 tuition prize draws valued at $1000 each. Students must be returning to UM the following year to receive the prize. In the case of a student graduating, special arrangements will be made.

Students are permitted to miss one (1) biweekly learning workshop per term and still qualify for the tuition draw (providing all other program requirements have been met). When creating a course schedule, please take Momentum meeting days/times into consideration.

Benefits of joining the Blankstein Momentum Program

    • Access to supports
    • Ability to enhance student experience and increase academic performance
    • Opportunity to be a part of an Indigenous student community
    • Culturally grounded events and activities
    • Experience Record approved program 
    • Tuition prizes
  • Experience record logo

Testimonials

Charisma, Cree, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences

As a returning student, my main goals were to better equip myself with on-campus supports and practice accountability, both of which I knew were extremely important if I wanted to be successful in my studies the second time around. Joining the Blankstein Momentum Program created a safe space for me to work on building the extra confidence I needed to actively achieve my goals and become part of the campus community. The cherry on top was winning the $1,000 draw and creating meaningful friendships that I can carry throughout my educational journey.

Laine, Métis

Momentum was one of the most supportive groups I've ever been involved in.

Malcolm, First Nations

Momentum was very helpful with teaching me new ways to go about studying, connecting with others and learning about on-campus supports. I also improved my GPA which is the main reason why I wanted to join in the first place.

Blankstein Momentum in the news

  • About Marjorie Blankstein

    The Blankstein Momentum Program is generously supported by University of Manitoba alumna Dr. Marjorie B. Blankstein [CM, O.M., BA (Man.), MSW (Minnesota), LLD (Man.)]. Through her career as a volunteer, Dr. Blankstein continues to advocate for Manitoba’s youth and has been instrumental in establishing many services. She has shared her passion with more than 300 community organizations, served on many boards and committees and received numerous honours for her service. Learn more about the Marjorie Blankstein Indigenous Leadership Scholarship.

Have questions about the Blankstein Momentum Program?

Indigenous Student Centre
Migizii Agamik - Bald Eagle Lodge
114 Sidney Smith Street
University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus)
Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Canada

isc@umanitoba.ca
204-474-8850
1-800-432-1960 ext. 8850 (toll-free in Manitoba)