Author: Grant Hamilton

Alumni

‘They rise to the occasion’ — BU Co-op to celebrate exceptional year at impact event

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With youth unemployment and the transition from education to meaningful work dominating national conversations, Brandon University’s Co-operative Education (Co-op) Program is preparing to share a different story.

On Tuesday, June 16, Brandon University Co-op will host a special community announcement event celebrating student employment outcomes, employer partnerships, alumni engagement, and the growing role of experiential learning in strengthening Manitoba’s workforce.

Campus Updates

Brandon University proud to support Freedom of the City parade

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Brandon University is proud to support the 1st Regiment of the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery from Canadian Forces Base Shilo as part of the Freedom of the City parade taking place in Brandon on Thursday, June 11.

The university will provide staging space on campus for approximately 120 soldiers and four military vehicles before the parade, which will start at 9:30 a.m. and march towards Brandon City Hall, where the Mayor will deliver an address.

Community Engagement

STEM Lending Library at Mini U receives more than $150,000 in federal startup funding

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Brandon University’s Mini University program is expanding hands-on science and technology learning opportunities for youth and teachers across Western Manitoba thanks to new federal funding through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) PromoScience program.

Mini U has been awarded $153,000 over three years through the NSERC PromoScience program to establish a new STEM Lending Library that will provide K–8 educators with access to hands-on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) learning equipment and resources.

Awards and Recognition

‘Our Journey’ celebrates Indigenous grads

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Brandon University was proud to celebrate Indigenous graduates at the “Our Journey: Celebrating Indigenous Student Success” event, held on Friday, May 22.

Due to forecast rain, it was moved from the Riverbank Discovery Centre instead to the Manitoba Room at the Keystone Centre. Perhaps uniquely, “Our Journey” is a graduation celebration that brings together Brandon University, Assiniboine College, and the Brandon School Division.

Awards and Recognition

Class of 2026 celebrated as Brandon University graduates 530 students at Convocation

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Brandon University celebrated the achievements, resilience, and promise of its newest graduates this week as 530 students received their degrees during four Convocation ceremonies held over two days at the Healthy Living Centre.

Family, friends, faculty, staff, and supporters gathered on Thursday and Friday to honour the Brandon University Class of 2026, recognizing graduates from the Faculties of Arts, Education, Health Studies, and Science, as well as the School of Music.

Alumni

Dr. Christine Bovis-Cnossen formally installed as BU President and Vice-Chancellor

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The oath of office has been taken, and the official academic robes have been draped over her shoulders. Brandon University has formally installed Dr. Christine Bovis-Cnossen as President and Vice-Chancellor.

Alumni

‘Under the Northern Lights’ for BU graduates with this year’s Convocation art

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Brandon University has unveiled its official 2026 Convocation artwork, a luminous and deeply personal piece by Manitoba artist Betty Sawatzky that captures the iconic Clark Hall beneath a vivid display of northern lights.

The artwork, titled Under the Northern Lights, Crowning over a Century of Discovery, was created using alcohol inks on ceramic tile, which is a medium known for producing flowing, dreamlike textures and intensely vibrant colour.

Alumni

Apex Award recognizes Dr. Bill Myers for service to Brandon University Foundation

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Longtime community leader, physician, and Brandon University supporter Dr. Bill Myers was honoured Wednesday with the Brandon University Foundation Honorary Trustee Apex Award, the Foundation’s highest recognition for meritorious service and outstanding leadership.

The award was presented during the Brandon University Foundation Annual Luncheon, held at the Victoria Inn.

“I think this award is primarily one for longevity,” Dr. Myers laughed, adding that he was proud to be in his fifth term serving the Foundation.

Alumni

Banner year of donor support lifts Brandon University Foundation over $100 million mark

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The Brandon University Foundation has reached a historic milestone, surpassing $100 million in total assets for the first time in its history. This follows a banner year of donor support in 2025, with new high-water marks for donations to the Annual Fund appeal and disbursements back to Brandon University for academic, institutional, and student support.

Awards and Recognition

‘James Ehnes Way’ celebrates lifelong BU connection for renowned violinist

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Brandon University’s School of Music has a new street address: James Ehnes Way.

The honorary street name was unveiled last week during a special two-day visit from the world-renowned violinist.

Just prior to a sold-out-and-then-some concert at BU’s Lorne Watson Recital Hall, the Brandon-born Ehnes and his family were treated to the spectacle of new street signs being revealed along the 200- and 300-block of 20th Street.