Blankstein Momentum Program

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

Momentum uses a holistic approach that includes biweekly workshops (Wednesdays, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.), advisor meetings, access to tutors, group activities and cultural/spiritual care.

The program runs from late August to the end of March and there is no cost to participate.

The application period is now closed and the program will be accepting applications for the 2024-2025 academic year in May 2025.

Is the Blankstein Momentum Program for me?

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.

What are the requirements and incentives?

Students committing to the Blankstein Momentum Program are required to:

  • Attend a mandatory orientation session
  • Attend bi-weekly learning workshops (Wednesdays from 4:30 -6:30 p.m., September- March)
  • Develop an academic learning plan within the first two weeks of classes
  • Meet with an Indigenous Student Centre (ISC) student advisor twice per term (or a faculty advisor if 60+ credit hours)
  • Attend one meeting per term with the ISC Learning and Reading Coach
  • Attend one meeting per term with an ALC tutor
  • Attend one meeting with a career counsellor (fall term)
  • Attend two Momentum community building activities
  • Visit with an Elder-in-Residence (optional) or attend an appointment with a Student Counselling Centre counsellor (optional)

Students must select from the following Orientation dates/times:

  • Saturday, Aug. 26 (10 a.m. - 3 p.m.) at Migizii Agamik, 114 Sidney Smith St.
  • Thursday, Aug. 31 (10 a.m. - 3 p.m.) at Migizii Agamik, 114 Sidney Smith St.

Students who complete the program requirements are eligible for the tuition prize draw at the end of the program (up to five prizes valued at $1,000 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. 

Optional: ARTS 1110 (Introduction to University) is designed to help students by imparting the knowledge, skills and attitudes required for success in university study. If you would like to improve your learning and writing skills, you may want to consider enrolling in this course. This is NOT a requirement of the Blankstein Momentum Program and is for those who have completed less than 60 credit hours.

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
    • Co-curricular record approved program 
    • Tuition prizes valued at $1,000 (up to five prizes)
  • Co-Curricular Record Graphic

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.

Kyle, Métis, Fine Arts

I joined the Blankstein Momentum Program to assist in my academic goals. It was great being a part of Momentum and through it, I gained skills and support to improve my grades and [it] provided me with a break from studies. The best part of Momentum was the connection to culture and the food.

Zariah, Cree, Faculty of Art

I joined the program not only to increase my GPA but to connect with my Native American roots. The Blankstein Momentum Program supported me spiritually, academically, culturally and socially. The best thing about the program is the one-on-one attention I receive to help me strive; the access to workshops is very helpful and the connection to my culture makes it a very safe and positive environment to excel.

Interested in joining the Blankstein Momentum Program?

  • The Indigenous Student Centre is committed to your success and encourages you to apply for the program.

    If you have any questions, please contact:

    Denise Proulx
    Student Advisor, Indigenous Student Centre
    Denise.Proulx@umanitoba.ca

     

  • About Marjorie Blankstein

    The Blankstein Momentum Program is generously supported by University of Manitoba alumna Dr. Marjorie B. Blankstein [C.M., O.M., B.A. (Man.), M.S.W. (Minnesota), LL.D. (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.