We are fortunate to be part of such a generous community. We use the word “community” a lot at BU, because we all know we are part of something bigger than ourselves. Community can refer to our actual location, of course, but also to the people who make BU so special. People like you.

The ability to accomplish great things together is at the heart of Brandon University. In fact, our Strategic Plans plan’s gifted name, Mamaawii-atooshke aakihkiwiin means “working together and growing” in the Michif language. Helping your generosity make the greatest possible impact on our students takes a team effort by members of our community, who work hand-in-hand with our donors to ensure that your gifts are directed in ways that are meaningful for you and beneficial for our University and students.

The majority of our Foundation disbursements go directly to students through scholarships and bursaries, but your support is important to all manner of BU activities. In 2022 we made some notable additions to our campus, including a new ceremonial fire pit, as well as the installation of a striking and thought-provoking 27-foot sculpture by Kevin McKenzie, of our IshKaabatens Waasa Gaa Inaabateg Department of Visual Art. The sculpture, called “Healing Together,” honours Truth and Reconciliation. We have also taken steps to make our campus more inclusive, including the painting of a rainbow Pride crosswalk between Harvest Hall and the John E. Robbins Library.

This past year, with support from our donors, we were able to support our Ukrainian community, providing a gathering space for people to rally and educational opportunities for three Ukrainian refugees displaced by the Russian invasion, with more expected in the near future.

We also built a tremendous buzz with the addition of two urban bee hives on the roof of Harvest Hall. Led by faculty and staff, and aided by a local apiarist, the Bee U project has already taken flight, producing more than 100 kg of honey that has been used by our Food Services and allowed us to give back to our community through contributions to local food banks, including the Brandon University Students’ Union food bank.

In the year ahead we are continuing to build these community connections while maintaining our commitment to the excellence in teaching, research, creation and scholarship that is at the core of what we do. I’d like to thank you for your support of these goals, and I’m excited by what we can build together.

Sincerely,

Dr. David Docherty
President and Vice-Chancellor Brandon University

Learn more about our Strategic Plan