Divided World: Let’s Talk — Community Consultation

Divided World: Let’s Talk — Community Consultation

Thursday, December 8th @ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

(brandonu.ca)

Our world is so divided. Can we talk about it?

In partnership with community stakeholders, Brandon University researchers are hosting a virtual town hall to explore conversations related to the polarization of beliefs, the role of social media, and brainstoming ways to restore and heal relationships. The purpose of this study is to consider the impact of social media on the polarization of beliefs, the impact of such polarization of beliefs on relationships, and what pathways we can follow to restore these relationships.

We are interested in talking to different community members to understand several perspectives on the matter. To collect data, you are invited to a two-hour online meeting. Through Zoom, experienced research facilitators will conduct a community consultation on the topic. Participants who do not have reliable internet access can register and participate by phoning in.

The online meeting will be audio-video recorded and later transcribed. After transcriptions are done, Co-Investigators will continue with the data analysis and note that any data collected will be fully available to the research team of this research only.

Please note that you are under no obligation to participate in this research. If you decide not to participate, you may withdraw at any time without penalty. Withdrawal of your data is possible at any point during the online meeting or prior to the researchers’ reports being concluded. Consent may be withdrawn verbally or in writing, and your data will be destroyed and not included in any reports generated by the study. We will work towards providing minimal risks to those who decide to participate in this study, by using pseudonyms and leaving out of any research accounts any information you find too revealing. If you experience any emotion distress, given the nature of the study, there are resources you can contact to help you cope.

If you decide to participate, please read this consent form, and indicate oral consent to the researcher. This research has been approved by the Brandon University Research Ethics Committee (BUREC). If you have any concerns or complaints about this project, you may contact Gustavo Moura at 204-571-7851 or MouraG@brandonu.ca or BUREC at 204-727- 9712.

To register, access https://bucarestownhall.eventbrite.ca or call 204-571-7851 and leave a message with your name and intent to register for the event.

For more information, access: https://www.bucares.ca/divided-world-lets-talk

What’s going on at BU?

What’s going on at BU?

by Charles Adamu

Previously on “What’s going on at BU?”

In my last article/update on “What’s going on at BU?”, we talked about quite a lot of things. From how the new academic term kicked off, to how I spent my first official school day searching for classes instead of going to them. We talked about how the Halloween spirit had taken over the whole campus and the various events that our Residence assistants and Residence council hosted to keep the Halloween spirit thriving- Halloween movie nights and the 2022 Residence Halloween party (I still get chills whenever I remember all the costumes). And I, on behalf of Brandon university, welcomed our freshers once again into our lovely campus. But like I said in the previous article, there is always something going on at Brandon University and here I am again, prepared to lay down to you what has transpired in the last few weeks at Brandon university. Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to “What’s going on at BU?”

What’s going on at BU?

 Sadly guys the Halloween spirit has left Brandon University and has gone on to some other universe with a slower timeline to show them love by scaring the jinkies out of them, and has now passed the baton on to Santa Claus. Before I go on, I would like to use this medium to say to Santa that I have done my best this year and I think that, unlike last year, I don’t deserve to be on your naughty list. This year, I am going to be expecting things other than coal in my socks. Thanks, Santa. Moving on, I would like to start by talking about the myth- No one uses the study break well. The study break lasted for three days, the remembrance day included. It was brought to my attention that up until this year, the study break had been a full week but, due to strategic and academic reasons, the university decided that the study break will from henceforth be three days. So down to the big questions guys: How well did you use your study break? Did you use it to study? Are three days enough? Remember guys, it was a “study” break not a “do other things but study” break. I’d like to say that I used it well and that I had disgraced the “no one uses the study break well” myth but honestly, I ended up making the myth very proud of me. But in my defense, the phrase “study break”, sounds like a break from studying to me. Enough of me though, let us take a look at how the study break was spent by students in residence.

Life in residence

As always, the resident assistants and the residence council have kept on planning events to foster unity and familiarity among residents and they grasped the opportunity of the three days study break to continue doing just that. On behalf of the residence council, Finn once again hosted yet another event; an event I like to call, “The Arcane Night”. Now honestly if you are yet to see Arcane- an animated show on Netflix- then I really don’t know what you’ve been doing (studying, hopefully) or where you’ve been (planet earth, hopefully). The show is a must-watch, especially for those who are fans of animated shows. It has an IMDb rating of 9/10 and 100% percent rotten tomatoes. 100! Watching the show with my fellow residents during the study break would be my second time streaming the series and yet, it gave me the same chills as it did on my “Arcane watching debut”. 

All residents were invited to the movie night, there was lots of food and drinks, and it was a night to remember. Alongside the Arcane night, other events were held, including a lord of the rings and the hobbit movie nights. If you take a good look around you, you would notice that decorations are gradually moving from spooky to Christmas-y. Now I don't know about you but I love Christmas. I mean who would not? A season of love and gifts, families coming together to spend quality time with one another, lovers reminding each other, in their ways, why they love each other, children building snowmen and using the heads of the snowmen for snow fights, Santa Claus finally rewarding all those who were good during the year and giving coal to people like me. 

As Christmas approaches, the term is gradually coming to an end and I know you all do not want to hear this but our finals are coming. I know guys…I know. I’m pissed too but it is what it is. My advice: Study hard and smart so that you don’t have anything holding your celebrations. But honestly, I think I am preaching to the choir because unlike what you might think, Brandon University students are ready to destroy those finals. Want to know how I know? Easy, I was at the long night against procrastination(LNAP) event.

 Long Night Against Procrastination

Firstly let me begin by saying that the acronym(LNAP) is quite funny because if you only write out what the “L” stands for and leave the remaining letters as they are, then it reads “Long NAP”. Which is kind of against the whole purpose of the Long night against procrastination event. Okay, dad jokes aside, the LNAP event was a bomb. The event was held at the library on the 23rd of November 2022 from 8 pm to 2 am. Honestly, it was nice and comforting to know that I was not the only one with the "procrastination disease". I went around greeting my friends like, “Hello there my fellow procrastinator”. The turnout was massive. I was a bit late and so it took my friend and me about ten minutes to find a place to study because the library was packed; the ground floor was filled as well as the first floor and I had to go all the way to the Northern Stacks section to get a place to sit; some people even had to sit on the floor. At the library, there was a coffee stand, there were cookies, drinks, pizza, and a lot of other snacks. There was writing help for those who needed it for their essays or wanted to improve their writing abilities in general, there was math help for those who needed it, and safe walks were even offered. The university really came through. And it wasn’t just residents, it was everyone. I felt proud of people I had never even met before just because we were there fighting for the same cause- a fight against procrastination.

Christmas is coming

Ladies and Gentleman, I know it is a bit early but I would like to, on the behalf of Santa, welcome you to the Christmas season. A time to eat, drink, and make merry. I hope you are joyed and prepared to celebrate because I am. If you look around, you would notice that the decorations are already coming up. Christmas trees are here and there, lights are going on walls and doors, family pictures are going up as well, and gifts are already getting wrapped. Ho! Ho! Ho! On Residence, Derek Booth- the residence Manager, has even called for a door decorating contest and there will be prizes guys so let us get our creative light bulbs floating on our heads and decorate the Christmas out of those doors. Speaking of eating drinking and making merry, in the spirit of Christmas and the academic term coming to a close, the university will be holding an end-of-term banquet. The banquet will be held on the 2nd of December from 5 pm to 9 pm at the Harvest Hall. The theme is Luminous Forest. And although not required, you are advised to come in a formal dress. I hope you’ve got your ticket because I have got mine and I would not like to celebrate without you all. After all, the more the merrier 

As I've stated before and will continue to reiterate, at Brandon University, there is always something happening. Always! Sports events, residence events, events just for eating and drinking, and even events just to fight a common enemy: procrastination. What a University! Once again, my name is charles and as always it has been an honor updating and reminding you all of the various activities and events that go on at Brandon University. As the term and year gradually come to an end, I hope and pray that you all make the most of this festive season, I hope that you receive so many gifts to the point of thinking about giving me some of them, and I hope that you go about sharing love and leaving smiles on the faces of people. I look forward to seeing every one of you in the next academic term and updating you as always on, “What is going on at BU?” But for now, it is goodbye and ho! ho! ho!

Exams are Coming Up!

Exams are Coming Up!

by Ronnie Neiman

It is the end of the semester and that means handing in final assignments and exams. Be sure to stay aware of when everything is happening in that regard. Know when your final assignments are due, know when you are having final exams in the classroom, and know when you are having exams in the exam schedule. 

Missing any of those dates can be rather unforgiving unless there is a specific medical reason. Other types of absences can be excused at the discretion of your professor and/or dean of your specific department, but arrangements need to be made ahead of time. 

Do not forget to study. That is just as important as remembering when to take the exams. You need to be able to prove that you know the materials in order to get a passing grade for your class, even better of the grade is higher because it reflects well on your G.P.A. 

Is there a final exam review in your class? If you are not sure, ask! Professors cover a lot of material over the semester, make you know what they will focus most on. 

Then it is time to study. Study alone or study in a group. Get help from student resources if you are in need of some good study tips or even if you just need a refresher. 

Remember to pace yourself. You will not do yourself any good if you stress too much and develop severe anxiety. Take breaks when you need to. Study in moderation. Do not overwhelm yourself with information.

 Best of luck with your exams and hope to see next semester! 

Awareness About Domestic Violence

Awareness About Domestic Violence

By Ronnie Neiman

November is Domestic Violence Awareness month. It is sad that there needs to be awareness about this horrid part of our reality, however it is good that there is a month dedicated to education about the subject. Domestic violence can happen to anyone but women, younger adults, people with disabilities, and recently separated women and men are even more at risk. 

It was the recent pandemic that saw to the rise of domestic violence acts while victims and their abusers were in lockdown together. There were less chances for victims to get out of that situation because there was nowhere that they could go, no one they could talk to aside from their abuser. It has become a problematic statistic increase over the past few years. 

Brandon University’s Status of Women Review Committee (SWRC) and 2SLGBTQIA+ Committee are partnering to raise awareness and show support for “The Light in the Window Campaign”. Candles are able to be picked up for free from Cheryl Fleming’s office in Clark Hall (CHO 333), or from Human Resources. The candles are to be placed in windows to show support for those who are at risk of domestic violence. *Be sure to avoid lit flames on campus please. 

Take a photo of your candle in the window and post it to your social media to show your support. 

For direct support, consider donations to 

Brandon’s Women’s Resource Centre (https://thewomenscentrebrandon.com/)

Or to 

YWCA Women’s Shelter (https://www.ywcabrandon.ca/homes-and-programs)

If you, or if someone you know is being abused, call the Domestic Violence Crisis/Information line for information and help. 

1-877-977-0007 or TTY 1-888-987-2829

For more information visit http://www.gov.mb.ca/stoptheviolence/index.html 

No one should be alone in the darkness.

Brandon University will develop an EDI Strategic Plan to guide research

Brandon University will develop an EDI Strategic Plan to guide research

November 18, 2022

Brandon University is developing an EDI Strategic Plan to support equity, diversity, and inclusion on campus, with a particular focus on research.

Early outreach to targeted stakeholders has already begun, wrote BU Provost and Vice-President (Academic) Dr. Kofi Campbell in an email to campus. He said that a previous baseline analysis had found that a lot of EDI work was already being done across campus, but that it lacked cohesiveness.

“In the absence of a larger guiding framework, this excellent work is being held back and hindered by duplicated and splintered efforts,” he wrote. “I know this in my own office, which touches the Office of Diversity and Human Rights, the President’s Anti-Racism Task Force, the Sexual Assault Advisory Group, and the new BUQueer committee, among others. There are many areas where working together could lighten the load on all, but currently these opportunities are too-often limited to ad hoc and one-off initiatives.”

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion are highlighted as an “Opportunity We Choose” in Mamaawii-atooshke aakihkiwiin, the overall BU Strategic Plan. There, EDI is cited not just as a moral requirement but also a strategy that brings tremendous benefits to all — in part by ensuring broad perspectives are heard and considered, and by leveraging previously marginalized or unrecognized talent.

As with the situational and baseline analysis, Brandon University has received a $50,000 CRC Program stipend to support the creation of this EDI Strategic Plan. BU has chosen Canadian diversity and inclusion consultants Zenev and Associates to help with this work.

A draft EDI strategic plan is expected as early as the spring.

Assiniboine ECE graduates have the opportunity to pursue online degree program at Brock University

Media Release

www.assiniboine.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Assiniboine ECE graduates have the opportunity to pursue online degree program at Brock University

BRANDON, Man. (November 16, 2022)— A new agreement between Assiniboine Community College and Brock University will give Assiniboine graduates the opportunity to pursue a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (BECE) Honours degree, delivered online so students can remain in Manitoba.

“The partnership creates an opportunity for students to expand their knowledge in the field of early childhood education,” said Karen Hargreaves, Dean of Health and Human Services at Assiniboine Community College. “The online format will provide students the flexibility to pursue their ECE degree while still living and seeking in-demand employment opportunities in Manitoba.”

The BECE Honours degree program takes approximately two-and-a-half years to complete and builds on the foundational knowledge gained from a two-year ECE Diploma program.

“We’re excited to partner with Assiniboine Community College to prepare early childhood educators for the critical work they do in our communities. In a rapidly expanding and high-demand field, students in the online Bachelor of Early Childhood Education program have access to world-class education opportunities and a growing network of early childhood educators across Canada,” said Michael Owen, Dean of the Faculty of Education at Brock University.

Assiniboine also offers an Early Childhood Program Management (ECPM) program, by distance, for students seeking their ECE lll. The program prepares students for a director’s role and the responsibilities as the leader, manager and administrator of an early childhood setting.

For more information, visit assiniboine.net/ece.

About Assiniboine Community College

Assiniboine Community College has been providing exceptional learning experiences for more than 60 years, offering unparalleled learning environments and responding to the demands and requirements of the Manitoba labour market. Following the philosophy of “learn by doing,” programs combine theory with hands- on learning inside classrooms, labs, kitchens, shops, fields and the college’s Sustainable Greenhouse.

Assiniboine offers more than 60 certificate, diploma and post-graduate programs across a variety of disciplines including culinary arts and hospitality, business, agriculture and environment, health and human services, and trades and technology. The college also delivers apprenticeship programming in a range of skilled trades disciplines.

The college welcomed more than 3,700 full-time and 6,000 part-time students last year. With campuses in Brandon, Dauphin, Winnipeg and Portage la Prairie, Assiniboine provides comprehensive educational opportunities throughout Manitoba. The college also partners with many communities and organizations across the province to deliver customized education and training. Assiniboine’s annual provincial economic impact is $612 million. In the most recent survey of graduates, nine months after graduation, 94 per cent were employed, with 92 per cent remaining in Manitoba.

Assiniboine Community College campuses are located on the traditional territories of Treaty No. 1 and Treaty No. 2, the shared traditional lands of Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, Dene and Anishinabek/Ojibwe peoples, and the homeland of the Red River Métis. We acknowledge their welcome to the students who seek knowledge here.

For more information, please contact:

Nycolle Adams

Communications Specialist

Assiniboine Community College

adamsn@Assiniboine.net

204-761-8403 (mobile)

www.assiniboine.net

Reading Week?

Reading Week?

by Ronnie Neiman

… and so ends our reading week… Though it was not truly a reading week because it was not a full week. It was only Wednesday and Thursday, with Friday being Remembrance Day. We still had to attend our classes on Monday and Tuesday last week. So it was more of a few days instead of the week we usually have. Not a lot of time to really take a breather and catch up on anything we are behind on. 

Earlier in the semester, the university did send out an email explaining their reasons behind this decision. 

“We were required to truncate the Fall break due to the implementation last year of another observed holiday in the Fall term (September 30: National Day for Truth & Reconciliation). With this additional holiday, we were no longer able to schedule the minimum number of contact hours for many courses within the confines of the term (between Labour Day and the beginning of the winter break). University policy indicates that, normally, a 3 credit-hour course must have a minimum of 36 contact hours. Prior to the implementation of the Sept. 30 holiday, many courses were scheduled right at the minimum 36 contact hour threshold, so there was no “wiggle room” to reduce more.” 

There are reasons behind the university’s decision to reduce the normal reading week, legitimate reasons, however it highlights part of the decision to treat Truth and Reconciliation as a stat holiday. That is still something I do not agree with, as I believe that specific date should not be treated as a holiday, but rather a day of learning and sharing knowledge. 

So the reading week was not actually a full week, but the university explained why. Hopefully everyone was able to get done what they needed to get done, that the break time was a productive break. Hopefully the reading break will be back to its usual time next semester and into the next school year. 

Assiniboine Carpentry instructor, Josh Church, receives Instructor of the Year Award from Apprenticeship Manitoba

Media Release

www.assiniboine.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Assiniboine Carpentry instructor, Josh Church, receives Instructor of the Year Award from Apprenticeship Manitoba

BRANDON, Man. (November 4, 2022)— Apprenticeship Manitoba awarded Josh Church, Carpentry instructor in Assiniboine Community College’s School of Trades, with the Instructor of the Year award at their
16th annual Apprenticeship Awards of Distinction gala on November 2, 2022.

"It was very humbling to receive the nomination, and I cannot express how grateful I am to be the recipient of this award. The best feeling as a tradesperson was walking away from a job and seeing what you had created or accomplished. My students are now that accomplishment,” said Church.

A total of four Assiniboine instructors were nominated for the award this year: Rick Baker (Math & Science), Kyle McDonald (Ag & Heavy Duty Equipment Technician) and Kelly Hiscock (Ag & Heavy Duty Equipment Technician).

“The School of Trades is incredibly proud of our four nominees, and extends a special congratulations to Josh, who was chosen as the award recipient,” said Kevin Poirier, Dean, School of Trades at Assiniboine. “To work with individuals who are passionate about educating the next generation of trained tradespeople is a pleasure. These nominees exemplify Assiniboine’s vision of providing exceptional learning experiences in the classroom.”

Church is an Assiniboine alumnus, having completed all levels of his technical training for his Carpenter Apprenticeship at the college. He served his apprenticeship while working at Horizon Builders in Brandon, and once he received his Red Seal in 2011, worked as site supervisor. Church then worked for Keller Developments for five years, serving in different positions, from a journeyman on site to project management and estimating.

In 2018, Josh began working at the college, and has been instructing in the Carpentry program at the Len Evans Centre for Trades and Technology for five years.

“I hope to instill in my students the confidence to challenge themselves moving forward, and to be proud of what they create or accomplish. Tools may be upgraded or created, but a skilled tradesperson will never be replaceable," said Church.

Church has been an active member of several safety committees for more than 15 years, has helped to build safety programs for the industry, and is currently working toward his goal of completing the National Construction Safety Officer (NCSO) designation.

About Assiniboine Community College

Assiniboine Community College has been providing exceptional learning experiences for more than 60 years, offering unparalleled learning environments and responding to the demands and requirements of the Manitoba labour market. Following the philosophy of "learn by doing," programs combine theory with hands- on learning inside classrooms, labs, kitchens, shops, fields and the college's Sustainable Greenhouse.

Assiniboine offers more than 60 certificate, diploma and post-graduate programs across a variety of disciplines including culinary arts and hospitality, business, agriculture and environment, health and human services, and trades and technology. The college also delivers apprenticeship programming in a range of skilled trades disciplines.

The college welcomed more than 3,700 full-time and 6,000 part-time students last year. With campuses in Brandon, Dauphin, Winnipeg and Portage la Prairie, Assiniboine provides comprehensive educational opportunities throughout Manitoba. The college also partners with many communities and organizations across the province to deliver customized education and training. Assiniboine's annual provincial economic impact is $612 million. In the most recent survey of graduates, nine months after graduation, 94 per cent were employed, with 92 per cent remaining in Manitoba.

Assiniboine Community College campuses are located on the traditional territories of Treaty No. 1 and Treaty No. 2, the shared traditional lands of Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, Dene and Anishinabek/Ojibwe peoples, and the homeland of the Red River Métis. We acknowledge their welcome to the students who seek knowledge here.

For more information, please contact:

Kyla Cottom
Communications Specialist

Assiniboine Community College

cottomk@assiniboine.net

587.225.0368

www.assiniboine.net

What’s going on at BU?

What’s going on at BU?

by Charles Adamu

It has now been a little past two months since our beloved Brandon University kicked off its September 2022/2023 academic session. It all started on the 6th of September when Brandon university held an orientation event that was very comprehensive. A huge part of the orientation took place in the Healthy Living Centre, wherein so many new students or should I say “freshers”, got to know each other in a rather energetic and swift manner. I say energetic because…you know what…you had to be there to understand. I would like to take a moment to briefly welcome our freshers, including myself,  once again on behalf of Brandon university. I hope and pray that y’all have had a blast ever since because I certainly have. 

     Keep in mind that this orientation was actually held in person; a huge step following the COVID-19 pandemic that tried so hard to keep us away from each other. 

May the souls of those who were taken by the pandemic rest in our hearts. The orientation went on with a welcome speech from the BUSU president: Olufunke Sofia Adeleye, a BBQ on the front lawn, entertainment of different sorts, and campus tours. Also, I hope that you all took out some time to check out the classrooms or theatres where your lectures would be held because I didn't and, my first day of class was more of searching than learning. But ever since then, what really has been going on at Brandon University?

    The sun has begun to set earlier than it did two months ago as we gradually slip into winter, but do you remember the popular saying that goes, “before winter comes Halloween”? Don't you? Okay maybe it is not as popular as I thought it to be or maybe I just made it up but nonetheless, it’s Halloween! (ha! Ha! ha!). Oh sweet and scary Halloween, the time to show your friends and family love by scaring the boo out of them; the time to embrace our inner Caspers, take lots and lots of candy, and give our pumpkins wide smiles.

    Now I don’t know much about the Halloween spirit soaring over the rest of Brandon but I know a tad about those soaring here on campus. Before I proceed, a little note: try not to step into any of the hall residence basements during this season, after all, basements are scary enough when it is not Halloween. Okay, proceeding, if you stay on campus or you happen to be around from time to time, you would have noticed that Halloween is being taken seriously(maybe even more seriously than our midterms). But hey, I get it, we all need a breather after the series of tests and midterms we’ve all been having. I hope you showed those midterms who is boss - the boss being you, not the midterm. Let us now take a sneak peek into what has been going on in the residence.

Life in residence

   Residence life..hmm. As you all know - or maybe not- there are three residence halls in Brandon University: Darrach Hall- the male residence, Flora Cowan - the female residence and McMaster- the coed. Now if you are in the residence like I am, you probably would have realised that McMaster is like a haven - nothing really goes on there. Do not get me wrong though, it is lots of fun and we (yeah I said we, I am also a McMasterian) have movie nights, play board games, and always smile at each other while we take those very long and awkward elevator rides.  But the juicy stuff, the real soaked-up stuff goes down in Darrach and Flora Cowan, especially Darrach, if ever there were to be a drama with Brandon University as one of the settings, Darrach Hall would be centre stage. But hey or should I say ha(Halloween spirit), we are not here to gossip, or are we? We are not. In the spirit of Halloween, let us pick up our binoculars and take a close look at some of the events and games that have been going on in the dorms.

    The residence council, inter-residence council, and our dear resident Assistants have played a huge part in making sure that the Halloween spirit remains by planning all sorts of fun games and events; special shout out to Derek Booth - the residence manager. 

Events like spooky movie nights were held, one of which was hosted by the flora Cowan residence council in the basement on the 27th of October. Hereditary- the movie that played that night- really kept the viewers on their toes and alert as the scary movie was highly unpredictable and enjoyable. Alongside the movie night, a pumpkin carving event was also held by the Resident assistants. The title of the event, “pun-king”, was pretty catchy(the winner of the pumpkin carving event was to be crowned the “pun-king”...get it?...get it?). Let us now take a look at the big one- the long-awaited residence Halloween party.

Halloween party

    Let me begin by stating that the party was raining costumes.  There was Velma- one of the members of the scooby-doo gang, a pirate, a very sexy nurse, a couple of witches who by mere coincidence had the same first names(beware of Jessicas guys), one of the members of the suicide squad - Haley queen- joined in, a dinosaur that somehow eluded extinction and even one of the goddesses of Egypt. The costumes were intense.

The Halloween party was scheduled for 7:30 pm but started at about 8 pm. It began with one of the hosts - Charles (the hosts being Charles and Finn)- who was dressed as John Shelby from a British show shot in Birmingham about a rather ruthless gang. He opened the doors to the down under that only he possessed(kind of like Thor’s hammer), and then let everyone else in for the party to begin.

The decorations were top-notch. There were a bunch of lights here and there, a couple of bats hanging from the ceiling, eyeballs around the food table (not human eyeballs though), a disco ball that set the mood for the dance floor( shout out to our DJs- Matthew and Gbenga), some cobwebs around the corners(unfortunately though, no one dressed as Spider-Man), and a centre table that was decorated with lots of snacks and candy.

   Various games were played. One of them entailed each participant blowing up a balloon, tying it to one’s ankle, and trying to step on one another’s balloon to burst it. I’ve gotta say, it took longer than I expected. Guys, lots of people know how to guard their balloons. The party peeps also played musical chairs, board games, and lots of other activities.

   As we approached the end of the party, the inter-residence council commenced the Halloween costume contest which was a very tight one, because there were so many good costumes. Drum rolls please….as I will now take the liberty of announcing the winners of the 2022/2023 Brandon University residence Halloween costume contest. Dj Mathew came in third place dressed as guy fieri and won a $10 shoppers mall gift card, Kate came in second place dressed as a dino rider and won a $20 shoppers mall gift card, and, …drum rolls again guys….first place went to Kaleb dressed as a sexy nurse, winning a ​​$30 shoppers mall gift card. What a night!

After the games and contests, party peeps spent the rest of the night dancing and dancing and dancing till 10 pm when the party finally came to a close. It was a night to remember.

 Sadly, Halloween is now coming to an end and as my Game of Thrones fans love to say, “winter is coming”. I hope you all are ready for the winter. I hope you have got your boots, coats, gloves, and whatever winter gear you deem important because again my friends…winter is coming.  My name is Charles and honestly, it has been an honour updating you all on what has been going on at BU. Brandon university might have a relatively small campus but lo and behold, what goes on is larger than you can fathom. Goodbye, you all, and I cannot wait to update you guys again next week on “What is going on at BU?”

Assiniboine recognizes more than 300 fall graduates

Media Release

www.assiniboine.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Assiniboine recognizes more than 300 fall graduates

Fall graduation ceremonies give graduates, families an opportunity to celebrate

BRANDON, Man. (October 28, 2022)— Assiniboine Community College fall graduates will be recognized at a graduation ceremony at the Keystone Centre today. This event will celebrate 302 graduates from 31 programs, who have completed their studies since July 31.

“Today’s ceremony is a great opportunity to acknowledge the successes of our students and graduates year- round,” said Mark Frison, president of Assiniboine. “After presenting certificates and diplomas to hundreds of grads this June, I feel fortunate to step back into the arena to celebrate and congratulate more individuals who have allowed Assiniboine to be part of their education and career journey.”

While the pandemic altered the traditional graduation ceremony format and timing in 2020 and 2021, Assiniboine’s largest graduation ceremony is typically held in June. The addition of a fall graduation ceremony is a result of the modified schedule of the past couple years.

Several of today’s graduates completed a post-grad credential program. Throughout the year, Assiniboine offers more than 10 Advanced Diploma programs, which add value to prior post-secondary credentials and level up graduates’ skills and experience. Graduates from Accounting, Anishinaabe Financial Management, Marketing, Finance, Human Resource Management and Early Childhood Program Management Advance Diplomas received these post-grad credentials today.

“Just as with our June graduation, today we’ll celebrate graduates from a variety of disciplines—from Applied Counselling to Sustainable Food Systems; Civil Technician to Human Resource Management. It’s a great representation of the depth of programming we offer and the industries we’re connected to here at Assiniboine,” said Dr. Deanna Rexe, Vice President Academic.

Among the grads invited to this graduation ceremony were 68 nursing diploma graduates.

“To recognize these graduates, who are ready to begin their futures in such impactful roles, is always a pleasure. Practical Nursing is our largest single program of study and I commend all those entering the healthcare field throughout the province,” said Dr. Rexe.

Today’s event will also officially recognize Honorary Diploma recipient, Leah LaPlante, an influential community leader widely recognized for her advocacy for Métis People.

The ceremony begins at 2 p.m. in the UCT Pavilion at the Keystone Centre. For more on graduation ceremonies: http://assiniboine.net/grad.

About Assiniboine Community College

Assiniboine Community College has been providing exceptional learning experiences for more than 60 years, offering unparalleled learning environments and responding to the demands and requirements of the Manitoba labour market. Following the philosophy of “learn by doing,” programs combine theory with hands-on learning inside classrooms, labs, kitchens, shops, fields and the college’s Sustainable Greenhouse.

Assiniboine offers more than 60 certificate, diploma and post-graduate programs across a variety of disciplines including culinary arts and hospitality, business, agriculture and environment, health and human services, and trades and technology. The college also delivers apprenticeship programming in a range of skilled trades disciplines.

The college welcomed more than 3,700 full-time and 6,000 part-time students last year. With campuses in Brandon, Dauphin, Winnipeg and Portage la Prairie, Assiniboine provides comprehensive educational opportunities throughout Manitoba. The college also partners with many communities and organizations across the province to deliver customized education and training. Assiniboine’s annual provincial economic impact is $612 million. In the most recent survey of graduates, nine months after graduation, 92 per cent were employed, with 93 per cent remaining in Manitoba.

Assiniboine Community College campuses are located on the traditional territories of Treaty No. 1 and Treaty No. 2, the shared traditional lands of Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, Dene and Anishinabek/Ojibwe peoples, and the homeland of the Red River Métis. We acknowledge their welcome to the students who seek knowledge here.

For more information, please contact:

Anya McNabb

Director, Communications and Marketing

Assiniboine Community College

mcnabba@assiniboine.net
204.725.8700 ext 6044

‘Bee U’ nets more than 100 kilograms of honey in first year

‘Bee U’ nets more than 100 kilograms of honey in first year

BU NEWS — October 13, 2022

BRANDON – A pilot project to explore urban beekeeping at Brandon University has had a sweet first year — and this weekend at Homecoming, you can take home a taste.

The ‘Bee U’ project, which attracted nationwide attention with 24/7 ‘hivestream’ video cameras that delivered a close-up look at the bees, saw two beehives mounted on the rooftop of the university’s cafeteria, Harvest Hall during the summer. After a season’s worth of foraging, the bees brought in a total of 117 kilograms of honey.

“This is a wonderful harvest, we’re so thrilled,” said Deana Smid, one of the main proponents of Bee U. “After skimming off the wax and comb, then straining the honey and packaging it for distribution, the net weight is a little less, but the most important thing is: it’s delicious!”

For a first year, which got a late start due to a lengthier-than-anticipated approvals process, the honey haul is relatively hefty. Smid hopes that with an earlier start, next year’s per-hive production could be even higher, and the university plans to increase the number of hives.

While the pilot project’s main goals are to assess whether urban beekeeping in Brandon could be successful, and to help figure out a framework for the city to support and regulate beekeepers, Smid says that making good use of the honey is also a key consideration.

“We know that we want to support food security here in Brandon, because any kind of local food production from gardening to beekeeping can help, and so we want to share the honey with our community,” she said. “We also know that we want to share the knowledge that we’re gaining, whether that’s through hands-on beekeeping or research opportunities with the bees and hives.”

Some of the honey will be shared with BU Food Services, where the hives were located, so they can use BU’s honey for feeding the campus. But the first public taste will be at BU Homecoming 2022, during a bannock-and-tea event on Saturday afternoon, Oct. 15, from 1–3 p.m. in the campus’ central Kavanagh Courtyard. The event is open to the public.

Jars of the BU honey were also originally earmarked for the BU Students’ Union food bank, which has moved to a voucher model and is no longer storing physical food donations. Instead, BU honey will be available on a donation basis at the bannock-and-tea afternoon event. Proceeds will go to the BUSU food bank as well as to expanding the Bee U pilot project next year.

Smid says there’s lots more to learn.

“Research is an essential part of this project, and we are sending honey samples for pollen testing, so we know what types of flowers our bees were foraging on,” Smid said. “There are so many wildflower gardens in the city that come through in the flavourfulness of the honey. It also appears that at least some of the bees flew right out of the city and got into some canola fields.”

The Bee U bees are overwintering at a local apiary and will return to the BU campus in spring 2023. This pilot project received funding and support from the Brandon Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation, Prairie Mountain Health (“Healthy Together Now”), and Summus as well as both the President’s Office and the Office of Research Services’ Research Support Fund at BU.

Brandon College alumni sponsor new annual lectureship at Brandon University

Brandon College alumni sponsor new annual lectureship at Brandon University

BU NEWS — October 16, 2022

BRANDON – A new tentpole event is set for the calendar at Brandon University next fall, thanks to alumni sponsorship of a new public lectureship announced at Homecoming this weekend.

The JRC Evans Memorial Distinguished Lectureship will welcome experts, authors, and other compelling speakers to deliver public lectures at BU, starting at next year’s Homecoming.

Dr. Arnold & Mrs. Glenyce Tweed are sponsoring the inaugural lectureship next year. Both are members of the Class of ’59 from Brandon College, the predecessor to Brandon University. The President of Brandon College during their studies was Dr. JRC Evans, a renowned educator and administrator who led the College for three decades and played a key role in shepherding it through the Depression. He died in 1960.

“A public lectureship featuring topics of real community interest can help blend the local community with the academic. It’s a joint project,” Dr. Tweed said. “We can help show the community that the university is not just an ivory tower. Brandon University is a place where real problems in the world are discussed and where real solutions are developed.”

The Evans Lectureship will host free lectures on campus where the community mingles with university students and faculty to hear from speakers on topics of current interest.

“This can be mind-expanding for students and a dose of real-world interest,” added fellow Class of ’59 graduate Cam Davreux, who is also supporting the Evans Lectureship. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for the university to show value to the community, and it fits beautifully with the university’s new strategic plan.”

The proposal grew out of lunch meetings that BU President David Docherty regularly hosts with engaged alumni across the country.

“I am very moved that we have alumni who are continually thinking of ways that BU can extend our reach in this fashion,” Docherty said. “This is exactly what presidents hope for when we visit alumni. This is going to be a very satisfying event next year.”

The new Evans Lectureship was announced at the Homecoming 2022 Awards Banquet, Saturday evening at BU’s Harvest Hall, and the first lecture is expected next fall at Homecoming 2023.

Alumni and other friends of Brandon University are invited to lend their own support to the lectureship and ensure it is able to attract the highest-quality speakers year after year, by donating online at BrandonU.ca/Give.

What to do With Leftover Thanksgiving Sides

What to do With Leftover Thanksgiving Sides

by Ronnie Neiman

 Leftover Stuffing Muffins

The leftover stuffing can be made into so many things, loaves, waffles, casseroles and of course, muffins!

Ingredients

  • 3 stalks celery, chopped

  • 4 medium yellow onions, chopped

  • 1 tablespoon butter

  • 1 loaf bread, toasted

  • 3 medium eggs, lightly beaten

  • 1/2 cup milk

  • 3 tablespoons dried parsley

  • 3 cups chicken or turkey stock

  • Salt

  • Pepper

Instructions

Step 1

Sauté the celery and onion in the butter over medium heat until they turn translucent and caramelize. It pays to take your time with this step, because this is what really makes for a flavourful stuffing.

Step 2

Meanwhile, toast each piece of bread in a full loaf. I usually use a wheat bread, but you can use whatever your family likes best.

Step 3

Chop the toasted bread up into cubes. Add the celery and onion mixture and dried parsley. Salt and pepper the mixture good. Lightly beat the eggs with the milk, and pour over the top. Pour some of the chicken or turkey stock over the top, and start to mix everything together with a large spoon. Keep adding stock until everything is moistened (wet but not soupy) -- you may not need to use it all.

Step 4

Give your muffin pans a light misting of non-stick spray, and fill each cup with stuffing.

Bake at 350 degrees for about 60 minutes. If you prefer a stuffing that's a little more moist, cover with aluminum foil for the first 45 minutes.

Leftover Thanksgiving Pizza

Keep the festive spirit of your food going until Christmas. A very simple and quick recipe.

Ingredients 

  • 1 pizza base fresh/frozen dough, naan bread, or pita

  • 2 tbsp cranberry sauce

  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese

Step 1

Preheat oven to 190C

Step 2

Line a tray with baking paper.

Step 3

Add toppings to pizza base, bake until base is crisp and cheese has melted.

Step 3

Top with with sage leaves and pomegranate.

After Thanksgiving Turkey Recipes

After Thanksgiving Turkey Recipes

By Ronnie Neiman

One of the best parts about Thanksgiving is all the food. So many leftovers to eat. You just need to figure out how to make those leftovers even more delicious!

 Turkey Sandwich Recipe

It only takes five minutes to make!

Ingredients

  • 1/4 small red onion

  • Kosher salt and pepper

  • 1 c. shredded Savoy cabbage

  • 1 tbsp. white wine vinegar

  • 2 tsp. olive oil

  • 1 tbsp. chopped dill pickles

  • 1 tbsp. mayonnaise

  • 1 tsp. whole grain mustard

  • 2 slices white bread

  • 1/3 lb. sliced turkey

  • 1 tsp. hot honey

Directions

Step 1

Toss red onion and pinch of salt in a small bowl to coat; let sit 5 minutes to allow onion to soften slightly. Rinse under cold water. Place onion in a medium bowl and add cabbage, vinegar, and olive oil. Toss to combine with ¼ teaspoon salt and pepper.

Step 2

In a small bowl, whisk together pickles, mayonnaise, and mustard. Spread mayo mixture on one slice of bread. Top with sliced turkey and drizzle with hot honey. Add cabbage slaw to sandwich and serve.

 Turkey Noodle Soup

The ever delicious noodle soup made with leftover turkey or chicken. Always a good option. 

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped

  • 2 stalks celery, sliced

  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped

  • 1 leek, cleaned and chopped, whites and light green parts only

  • Kosher salt

  • Freshly ground black pepper

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 4 c. turkey stock (or low-sodium chicken broth)

  • 3 c. water

  • small bunch thyme

  • Small bunch rosemary

  • 1 bay leaf

  • 1 tsp. dried oregano

  • Pinch crushed red pepper flakes

  • 1 (12-oz.) package egg noodles

  • 3 c. cooked shredded turkey

Directions

Step 1

In a large pot over medium heat, heat oil. Add carrots, celery, onion, and leek and cook until soft, 5 minutes. 

Step 2

Season with salt and pepper. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute more. 

Add broth, water, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, oregano, and pinch red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then add egg noodles. 

Step 3

Cover and cook until pasta is cooked through, 7 minutes. Discard thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. 

Step 4

Add turkey and simmer until warmed through, 5 minutes. Season with more salt and pepper.

Holiday Leftover Pizza

Pulling Together: Manitoba Foundations Guide Series

Pulling Together: Manitoba Foundations Guide Series

(brandonu.ca)

Friday, October 7th @ 9:30 am - 11:00 am

Room 141, He Oyate Tawapi Ceremony Room, Health Studies Bldg

Event Navigation

Learn together in this six-week exploration of the guide

BU Faculty and Staff are invited to take part in a six-week, guided exploration of the Pulling Together: Manitoba Foundations Guide throughout the months of October and November.

Each week, individuals will read through the sections of the guide and engage in related activities at their own pace, then come together as a group for broader reflection and discussion in the form of learning circles. Individuals will be invited to seek out experiences or opportunities related to the learning within their own context following the program and to come back together in a few months to share actions, successes and outcomes.

Duration: Fridays, October 7 – November 18, 2022

*exception November 11 for Remembrance Day

Week 1 – Welcome & Introduction to the program and each other

Week 2 – Section I: Intro to Indigenous Peoples

Week 3 & 4– Section II: Colonization

Week 5 – Section III: Decolonization

Week 6 – Explore next steps for continued learning and action

Learning Circles with Cree Knowledge Keeper Susie McPherson-Derendy

Fridays, October 7, 14, 21, 28 & November 4 & 18

9:30 – 11:00 a.m.

In-person: Room 141, He Oyate Tawapi Ceremony Room, BU’s Health Studies Complex

To Register

For planning purposes, please sign up using the RSVP feature on the Brandon University website.

BU plans in-person Homecoming for 2022

BU plans in-person Homecoming for 2022

BU NEWS — September 22, 2022

BRANDON – Brandon University (BU) will be hosting its first in-person Homecoming celebration since 2019, from October 13 to 16, 2022.

The weekend will be filled with a multitude of events including the usual favorites such as the Homecoming Dinner and Awards Ceremony, the Athletics Wall of Fame Brunch, and the Pro Series concert featuring BU’s Megumi Masaki, who was named to the Order of Manitoba this past spring.

“It’s been too long since we have seen many of our alumni, and we’re excited to be welcoming everyone back!” said Carla Eisler, BU’s Director of Advancement and Alumni Affairs.

This year’s Homecoming celebration will also be a chance to recognize the centennial of the Citizen’s Science Building, now known as the Knowles-Douglas Student Union Centre. The building was the third building built on the Brandon University Campus, in 1922-1923, and is a rare example of late gothic style architecture in Manitoba. The celebrations in the Knowles-Douglas Centre will include a Beer Garden serving locally brewed beer, a Trivia Night hosted by BU’s new Advancement Officer Nick Brown, and a 1920s themed social, the 100th Birthday Bash.

“I worked in that building for four years while on student council, and I’m thrilled to be back running events in a space that has meant so much to students over the last century,” Brown said.

Homecoming this year will also include participation from some of the groups on campus. The Inter-Residence Council will be hosting a Bonfire Night after the Banquet next to the new sculpture by renowned Cree/Metis artist Kevin McKenzie. The Brandon University Gaming Association will host A Nintendo Afternoon, a lighthearted and fun afternoon where you can drop-in, grab some snacks, and relax while playing Mario Kart or Smash Bros. The Indigenous Alumni Chapter will host a Bannock and Tea event at the new Ceremonial Fire Pit, and some of Bee-U’s first batch of honey will be served.

“One of our biggest joys this fall has been able to welcome everyone back to our campus, and I can’t wait to see our proud alumni in-person again at Homecoming,” said BU President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. David Docherty. “We’re highlighting some of the best that our community has to offer, and I’m looking forward to sharing BU’s new and old favourites with our alumni and other guests.”

The full Homecoming Schedule and Registration form can be found at BrandonU.ca/Homecoming/Schedule.

BU Co-op program celebrates success

BU Co-op program celebrates success

BU NEWS — September 20, 2022

BRANDON – The students and supporters of Brandon University’s (BU’s) Co-operative Education Program were celebrated at a luncheon on Friday at Harvest Hall.

With the theme of Delivering Tomorrow’s Talent, Today! the event reviewed the successes of the past year, took a closer look at the Co-op program and the student activities during their work terms as well, and featured an awards presentation.

RBC, which was represented by Regional Vice-Presidenet Terry Burgess and Community Manager Nathan Campbell, was presented with the Co-op Community Support Award for their generous donation of $250,000 to the program over three years. Greenstone Building Products received the Prestigious Employee Award-Spirit or Co-op for employing the most Co-op students. Tilda Fortier accepted the award on behalf of Greenstone.

“The success of Co-op is a result of the support of employers in combination with the dedication and talent of our students,” said Davion Johnson, Co-operative Education Program Co-ordinator at BU. “It was rewarding to bring so many employers, students, and our faculty and staff together in a celebration of this symbiotic relationship.”

The Co-operative Education Program at BU provides a bridges academics with career preparation for students by allowing them to alternate study terms with work terms. Students gain valuable work experience and industry connections, while bringing in-demand skills, energy and ideas to their employers.

Learn more about Co-op at BU by visiting BrandonU.ca/Co-Op.

Shoutout to the Student Leaders on Campus

Shoutout to the Student Leaders on Campus

Part 1

By: Mallory Johnson

You may have noticed some Student Leaders on campus, especially during orientation. They were the people giving nervous first year students tours and making sure they found all their classrooms. I spoke to my friends Mandy Swidersky and Mckenna Graham Roberts, two first-time Student Leaders, all about their experiences being a leader this year so far! 

Mandy uses she/her pronouns and is in her fifth and final year of her Bachelor of Arts. She is majoring in Gender and Women’s Studies and is minoring in both Math and Psychology. She became a Student Leader “because I wanted to help the first-year students find their way in university (both literally finding their classrooms and finding a way to be successful in university). I remember how safe I felt in my first year knowing that there were Student Leaders who would be willing to help and give me useful tips for being a new university student. I also wanted to meet some new people and learn about who they are and what their journey to BU was like.” Training was very relaxed and flexible. Kathleen Richards, who oversees the Student Leaders, emailed the Leaders back in August to let them choose from a variety of training dates. The training itself was simple; they went over what their roles would be throughout the year and Kathleen gave them a pep-talk to motivate those who were a little shyer. They were also given optional training for campus tours, provided by one of the long-term Student Leaders. 

The Leaders assist with events occurring both on campus and virtually. It is their responsibility to help new and incoming students with any questions they may have throughout the year regarding class location, advice for studying, and more. Basically, “Student Leaders are mentors who are there to give advice and be a familiar face for those new to campus. Student Leaders also play a huge role in Orientation, where we provide campus tours and assist in the icebreaker part of the day.” 

Regarding her favorite parts of being a Leader, Mandy said, “being a Student Leader has allowed me to meet a lot of new people and it makes me feel more connected to the BU community. Since we have been online for two years, it has been difficult to connect with others. It is wonderful to be able to meet people from all over the world and learn what made them want to attend BU. Another favorite part of being a Student Leader is seeing how confident new students become after Orientation occurs. At Orientation, most new students are terrified and have a fearful look in their eyes. Being able to calm their nerves and assist them in finding their classrooms is very rewarding. Now when I see some first years, I don’t see the same fear that they had on Orientation Day, and it is cool to see how fast they have adapted to university life.” Regarding her least favorite part, Mandy said assisting with the icebreaker portion was not ideal because she is a “more introverted person, so I really had to come out of my shell to take part in those activities.” 

If she had the chance, Mandy would sign up to be a Student Leader again! She said, “It is such a fun and rewarding experience. The program is very flexible, allowing students to volunteer only when they feel they have the time to spare. The program leaders, Kathleen Richards, and Leanna Barcellona are wonderful and put a lot of time and effort into creating fun events for students on campus. They are also very appreciative of their Student Leaders, and often host small events to thank them for their work.” Mandy was able to reconnect with a lot of people she had met in her first two years at BU, who she had not connected with since before BU went online. It was nice for her to see some familiar faces and to work alongside some new people. Despite being online for two years, Mandy surprisingly did not have to remind herself where everything was and lead tours with ease. 

Mckenna Graham Roberts uses she/her pronouns and was born and raised in Brandon. She loves hanging out with pets and playing video games with her friends. She is in her fourth year of the Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Education Integrated program. In this program, they call their majors and minors “teachables,” and hers are History and Drama. 

She became a student leader because, “in my first year, we were on campus until about March. I had a classmate in my Theatre class who suggested I become a Student Leader because she knew that I would love it so much. I signed up to be a Student Leader and then the pandemic hit. I didn’t hear anything until I got an email in the summertime asking me to sign up to be a Student Leader! I thought it was a great opportunity to meet new people and help the new to campus students.” The training did not take very long, you basically just needed to know the campus and have a great attitude! Mckenna said that “Kathleen and Leanne have been great to us, and they are trying to figure out what we need to do to make sure we succeed. We got to pick a training time frame and meet at the campus in the courtyard. We sat at a table and Kathleen did not actually have access to the campus yet. She started to ask us where the building was and if we knew any facts or what kind of classes went on in that building. On the day of Orientation, we had the opportunity to come early, and Danielle Moore would help everyone walk around if we needed another refresher.” 

Continued in Part 2.