The following message was sent to All Staff and Students on behalf of the Executive Leadership team: 

This message includes content that may trigger strong emotions, especially for those with lived experience. It is recommended that we all check in with ourselves and access the resources available to us to ensure we are taking good care of our mental health. Access mental health and self-care resources here. 

Tomorrow, October 4, is the National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two Spirit People (MMIWG2S). The flags on RRC Polytech Campuses are lowered today and tomorrow as the community observes this important day. 

This day comes just four days after the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It is a reminder that real change requires more than awareness – it demands shifts in attitudes, institutions, and policies so that racism is dismantled and equity becomes the standard.  

Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two Spirit People is a movement that illustrates the racist legacy of Canada’s justice system and the policies and attitudes that lead to the circumstances in which Indigenous women, girls, and Two Spirit people are at risk of being murdered or going missing. 

The Day of Action for MMIWG2S is a recognition that Indigenous women, girls, and Two Spirit People must be afforded the same safety, security, and justice that all people deserve. 

Families and communities across Turtle Island continue to grieve the loss of loved ones – including the families of Morgan Harris, Marcedes Myran, Rebecca Contois, and Ashley Shingoose. Ashley is now known as Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe, a name she was given before her identification and the name her family wishes her to be remembered by. 

In 2019, the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls published the final report, Reclaiming Power and Place, which asserts 231 Calls to Justice that address issues that accumulate into dangerous situations. The Final Report draws on the testimonies of over 2,380 family members, survivors of violence, experts, and Knowledge Keepers collected through two years of nationwide hearings and evidence gathering. 

Call to Justice 11.1. addresses all educators and educational institutions to educate and provide awareness to the public about missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people, and about the issues and root causes of violence they experience. 

Because of the violence Indigenous women, girls, and Two Spirit People face and the historic lack of response from the justice system, many Indigenous families are hesitant to send their young women and Two Spirit relatives away from home to pursue higher education. This absence of safety and feeling secure creates a significant barrier to post-secondary opportunities. At RRC Polytech, we have a responsibility to acknowledge these realities and raise awareness. By doing so, we can foster a learning and working environment where community members feel safer, supported, and understood. 

In 2023, RRC Polytech and the Campus Store partnered with Métis artist Shayre Curé to create an original design for a Red Shirt for MMIWG2S, the proceeds of which go to the Mínwastánikéwin Truth and Reconciliation Award for Indigenous students. The bursary, valued at $1,000, aims to alleviate some financial stress for Indigenous students. The shirts are produced and ordered through Red Rebel Armour, owned and operated by RRC Polytech alum Sean Rayland-Boubar. 

This October 4, we encourage you to view resources available through the Library, including the Library Guide, films like Felicia Solomon’s Story, and Tina Fontaine: A Murdered Girl’s Legacy from CBC Curio; and films through the National Film Board like Finding Dawn, The Red Dress, and this river.  

The Government of Canada’s National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls always has free resources available, including direct access to the Final Report itself.  

Many Indigenous organizations have additional programs that support the National Inquiry and education on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two Spirit People like the Southern Chiefs’ Organization Inc. MMIWG2S and Violence Prevention.  

We also acknowledge that this observance may be emotionally taxing, especially for Indigenous students and employees. Please remember that outside of formal events in which they agree to participate, Indigenous community members may decline discussing this observance because of its emotional and cultural impact.  

Thank you, 

Fred Meier, President and CEO 

Dr. Christine Watson, Vice President Academic

Jamie Wilson,  Vice President, Indigenous Strategy, Research and Business Development

Giselle Martel, Vice President, Finance and Administration

Melanie Gudmundson,  Chief Human Resource Officer

David Petis,  Executive Director, Advancement

New collaborative program launches to strengthen Indigenous businesses, knowledge, innovation and community in Manitoba

Winnipeg, Manitoba on Treaty No. 1 Territory – the lands of the Anishinaabeg, Ininiwak, Anishininwak, Dakota Oyate, and Denésuline, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis – Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah (Mittohnee)’s mission to bring more, local, Indigenous business ideas to life has begun with the launch of its inaugural four-month entrepreneurship program and celebration of its first ever cohort of determined entrepreneurs.  

Mittohnee is RRC Polytech’s business accelerator and incubator initiative – created by and for Indigenous entrepreneurs – to help aspiring and established business leaders build the necessary networks and access the support and training required for increasing the success of any new or existing venture.  

“By creating access, breaking down barriers, and ensuring Indigenous entrepreneurs have the tools to succeed here in Manitoba, Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah is opening new economic doors,” says Jamie Wilson, VP, Indigenous Strategy, Research and Business Development at RRC Polytech. “Whether it’s progressing a student’s idea from concept to reality or supporting an established Indigenous entrepreneur and/or band-operated business to pivot, scale up, or explore new partnerships, Mittohnee will transform experiential learning, innovation, and entrepreneurship into real business opportunities for Indigenous communities.” 

The name Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah comes from a Neynowaywin (Cree) expression that means ‘If you are going to do it, do it right. If you don’t know how to do it right, learn how.’   

Made possible by the power of partnership – between RRC Polytech, federal and provincial governments, and generous corporate partners, TD Bank Group and Canada Life, Mittohnee is a true collaboration and the first of its kind in Manitoba. As one of three Indigenous incubators in the Labs4 national network, it offers additional connections to the innovation ecosystem across the country.    

Mittohnee’s inaugural four-month entrepreneurship program will feature mentorship through an entrepreneur-in-residence, training workshops, networking events, opportunities to connect with other business leaders and even student competitions. Director, Amy Jackson, a proud member of Opaskwayak Cree Nation, dedicated community connector and entrepreneur who founded a successful venture called Nativelovenotes during the pandemic, has tailored the program for maximum impact. 

“From resources and connections to dedicated space for entrepreneurs to collaborate and grow their ideas, we provide everything they need in a really supportive environment,” explains Jackson. “When we help entrepreneurs succeed, they create jobs, build stronger communities, and inspire the next generation. The ripple effect is powerful.” 

Mittohnee is a natural but significant extension of RRC Polytech’s commitment to supporting Indigenous Peoples and communities. It will also benefit the students graduating from the Social Innovation and Community Development program in the School of Indigenous Education, who may wish to continue the pursuit of their project concepts.  

“These students, who know and understand their communities and the challenges they face, now have the resources to build on their education, take their ideas and solutions and create a business that moves their vision forward,” says Jackson. 

A total of thirteen entrepreneurs of First Nations and Métis descent, each with their own dream, idea or business-in-progress make up the initial cohort. In addition to their proud heritage, what they share is an eagerness to put in the work to learn, grow and succeed.  

Among them is Darion Ducharme. The award-winning founder of Teqare, an Indigenous-owned education and technology training company empowering youth, adults, elders, and organizations with hands-on workshops in cyber safety, scam prevention, financial literacy, digital literacy, and city life skills. He is already a passionate role model making a difference and can’t wait to take his story to the next level and continue to inspire positive change.   

“Teqare’s success, while amazing, has forced us to evolve from dealing with small scale numbers and assets to much larger and complicated transactions,” says Ducharme. “I see the training and mentorship through Mittohnee really helping me to manage business finances better to ensure return on investment and improve areas like proposal writing that will allow our company to grow and thrive.”  

The launch celebration includes a culturally grounded ceremony, a motivational panel discussion and feast at Manitou a bi Bii daziigae on the Exchange District Campus. Details that Ducharme says are important to continue building trust with Indigenous communities and that like the word Mittohnee itself, remind everyone that entrepreneurship is not just about ideas, but about how you approach the work.        

“This is a safe space where everyone makes you feel welcome, cared for, and valued,” says Ducharme. “I believe Mittohnee will help us create a culture of people who come together to do what they are called to do. I can’t wait to get started!” 

For more information or to join the next cohort, please email: mittohnee@rrc.ca 

The following message was sent to All Staff and Students by Carla Kematch, Director, Truth and Reconciliation and Community Engagement:

The following message includes content that may trigger strong emotions, especially for those with lived experience. It is recommended that we all check in on ourselves and access the resources available to us to ensure we are taking good care of our mental health. Access mental health and self-care resources here. 

Tomorrow, September 30th, is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which grew from the Indigenous-led grassroots movement, Orange Shirt Day: Every Child Matters. The flags on RRC Polytech Campuses are lowered today and tomorrow as RRC Polytech observes Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. 

We were fortunate this year to welcome Phyllis Webstad for a virtual keynote to launch Truth and Reconciliation and Community Engagement week. Phyllis’s story became the catalyst for Orange Shirt Day in 2013 when she founded the Orange Shirt Society, and later for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation when the Canadian government ratified it as a statutory holiday in 2021.  

Despite its status, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is not just another holiday – it’s an opportunity to take a moment from our typical routines to reflect and learn. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation brings to light everything that was taken from Indigenous Peoples through the horrific history of the Canadian Residential School System – culture and traditions, family, language, and sovereignty.  

This year, the annual RRC Polytech Orange Shirt was designed by Nursing student Dasia Chatkana and produced by local business Dreamcatcher Promotions. The design honours the bravery of children that escaped Residential Schools – many of whom risked capture or exposure to the elements. The Orange Shirt proceeds go to the Mínwastánikéwin Truth and Reconciliation Award for Indigenous students every year to contribute to financial reconciliation – and you can support the award by purchasing your orange shirt at the Campus Store.  

Throughout the week, we saw many thought-provoking engagement sessions led by internal leaders and community partners. Miigwech to everyone who took the time to participate in events, and especially those who have led the sessions this week. We recognize the emotional labour and vulnerability of sharing your stories and lived experiences.   

On Friday, Sept. 19, Steinbach hosted a community honour walk and featured keynote presentations from Residential School Survivors, live cultural performances and educational displays. Russ Mason, a Business Administration student at RRC Polytech, was among the organizers for this trailblazing event. 

Today, students in Culinary Skills (Indigenous) are working hard to make bison stew and bannock for the Buffalo Ceremony hosted by Keewatinohk Inniniw Minoayawin and N’Dinawemak, where Survivors and their families are being honoured in the community. 

As a post-secondary educational institution, Truth and Reconciliation is more than creating equal opportunities for Indigenous learners – it is also about ensuring the communities we serve learn the full and often-overlooked histories of this land. By centering the voices of Indigenous scholars, historians, and Knowledge Keepers, we help bring forward truths that were too long excluded from western textbooks and invite reflection on what those truths mean for us today. Observing and honouring the intent of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, and extending these learning opportunities throughout the year, strengthens our commitment to building a campus community that is safe, inclusive, and welcoming for all. 

Please note that RRC Polytech campuses are closed tomorrow, September 30. I hope that you were able to find some opportunities this week to engage, reflect, and connect in preparation for the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. Everyone starts somewhere – this is a lifelong journey that everyone is encouraged to join. Tomorrow is also an opportunity in itself to attend community events, participate in Ceremony, read or watch, sit and reflect.  

Take good care of yourself and those around you and remember to reach out for support. 

Carla Kematch  | Director, Truth and  Reconciliation and Community Engagement
Indigenous Strategy, Research and Business Development

Beginning October 1, 2025 the City of Winnipeg will be extending street parking time limits on designated streets around RRC Polytech’s Exchange District Campus (EDC) as part of a pilot project.

Staff and Students who rely on personal vehicles to get to EDC will now be able to park for up to three hours, and a 30 minute extension if needed, on the following streets:

• Adelaide Street, east side – from William Avenue to Elgin Avenue
• Adelaide Street, west side – from Elgin Avenue to William Avenue
• Princess Street, west side – from Elgin Avenue to William Avenue

Signage will be installed this week and the PayByPhone App will be updated prior to the October 1 start date.

The City will also trialing the new time limits near the Centennial Concert Hall, Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre and the Manitoba Museum.

The trial will run for a period of one-year.

Today, RRC Polytech adds a meaningful new addition to the flags that fly on the front lawn at the Notre Dame Campus. In recognition of the International Week of Deaf People and the International Day of Sign Languages, the Polytech will raise the Deaf Flag this morning for the first time in its history, following a short ceremony open to the community.  

“Today is a wonderful celebration of our values in action. RRC Polytech strives to be a place where all members of our community can learn, work and thrive,” says Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech. “Our hope is that through raising this flag, we are sending a powerful message to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community that they are welcome and supported on our campuses.” 

Deaf staff and faculty members initially raised the idea to fly the flag to demonstrate the Polytech’s ongoing commitment to accessibility, and to show all members of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community that they have a place at RRC Polytech. 

“The Deaf Flag is a symbol of unity and inclusiveness, making the timing of today’s event all the more significant as we welcomed the return of the ASL-English Interpretation program to RRC Polytech this fall,” says Cheryle Broszeit, instructor at RRC Polytech. 

RRC Polytech’s ASL (American Sign Language) – English Interpretation Program recently underwent an academic transformation of its content, design and delivery to better meet the emerging needs of learners and the community and was led by feedback from the Deaf and interpreting communities. This fall, there are 9 students enrolled in the renewed program. 

“The ASL-English Interpretation program underscores the value of the connection between the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and interpreting communities,” continues Broszeit. “The new and improved program now has a stronger foundation for our students, so they can begin their careers as interpreters confidently and competently once they graduate.” 

This morning’s event will feature remarks from Meier, Broszeit, and Rick Zimmer, Deaf advocate and former instructor and coordinator of Deaf studies programs at RRC Polytech. Current Deaf students and students from the ASL-English Interpretation program will raise the flag together. 

French Deafblind artist Arnaud Balard designed the flag, which was adopted by the Deaf French National Federation in 2014 and has since been flown around the world. The Deaf Flag is a powerful symbol for Deaf communities, representing unity, recognition, and the ongoing fight for equal rights. The Polytech sourced the flag directly from the World Federation of the Deaf.  The Deaf Flag now joins flags representing Treaty One, the Red River Métis, and RRC Polytech’s Inclusive Pride flag, which are flown year-round at RRC Polytech. The Polytech will fly the Deaf Flag for the remainder of the week, and every year moving forward during the International Week of the Deaf. 

For immediate release – Monday, September 22

Winnipeg, Manitoba, on the lands of Anishinaabeg, Ininiwak, Anishininwak, Dakota Oyate, and Denesuline, and national homeland of the Red River Métis – RRC Polytech is hosting its seventh annual Truth and Reconciliation Week to mark the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day, on September 30.

This year, Truth and Reconciliation and Community Engagement Week (TRCE Week) begins today, September 22, with a virtual keynote from Phyllis Webstad, whose story of Residential School started the Orange Shirt movement in 2013. RRC Polytech has also partnered with Nursing student Dasia Chatkana, whose original design is featured on the RRC Polytech Orange Shirt in support of the Mínwastánikéwin Truth and Reconciliation Award, which is awarded to Indigenous students every year in January.

“Every year for seven years, the RRC Polytech community has come together to learn about Truth and Reconciliation and Canada’s true history from Indigenous perspectives. It’s important for us as an educational institution to not only affirm these histories centering Indigenous Peoples, but also to raise awareness to non-Indigenous Canadians that what they were taught in school doesn’t necessarily reflect all realities,” said Jamie Wilson, RRC Polytech’s Vice President, Indigenous Strategy, Business Development and Research.

TRCE Week is five days filled with sessions to educate the RRC Polytech community about the many different responsibilities of Truth and Reconciliation.

While Truth and Reconciliation is a year-round commitment for RRC Polytech, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a focal point that encourages employees and students to immerse themselves in Indigenous Teachings, storytelling and experiences. Opportunities to cultivate understandings of the true history and current issues impacting Indigenous Peoples, and reconciliation efforts by society as a whole contribute to a stronger, more unified community that benefits all members.

“Truth and Reconciliation is an ongoing process of learning and integrating new information, disentangling ourselves from misinformation and unlearning what we think we know, and opening ourselves to truths that might surprise or challenge us. All the sessions we host this week are something that each participant can take back to the classroom, to the workplace, and to their personal lives – so they can continue the lifelong journey of learning today, tomorrow and every day into the future as we work towards building a better and brighter future for all,” Carla Kematch, Director, Truth and Reconciliation and Community Engagement.

Sessions include a virtual keynote from Phyllis Webstad, whose story inspired the Orange Shirt movement; a Two Spirit Sharing Circle; workshops for Talking Sticks, drumming, and painting; panel discussions with The Knowledge Keepers Council and with staff on Indigenous perspectives in inclusive hiring and belonging. Other sessions explore Inuit culture, traditional teachings like the Cedar Bath, and the historical timelines of the First Nations and Métis.

The RRC Polytech Original Orange Shirt, which is released every year alongside TRCE Week, was designed by Nursing student Dasia Chatkana. Read more about her design here and buy your shirt at the Campus Store. All proceeds support the Mínwastánikéwin Truth and Reconciliation Award, which is awarded to an Indigenous student every January to support financial reconciliation.

To learn more about TRCE Week sessions, see the full event schedule.

Yesterday, the Honourable Uzoma Asagwara, Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care visited the Notre Dame Campus to meet with nearly 80 students in the Advanced Care Paramedicine (ACP) and Primary Care Paramedicine (PCP) programs.

The Minister was greeted by students in the new paramedicine lab located in Interdisciplinary Health and Community Services Simulation Centre. They had the opportunity to thank students for their commitment to their training and calling to this important health profession, and hear questions from students in the audience.

This year, RRC Polytech is proud to welcome a record intake of 40 students into the PCP program – nearly half of which entered the program via direct-entry from high school. They were all in attendance to meet the Minster, along with 32 year two students who will graduate in winter 2026 and seven students in the ACP program.

Thank you to the School of Health Sciences and Community Services, the Paramedicine faculty and staff, and the students who supported this meaningful visit.

Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation pursues initiative with RRC Polytech that will change healthcare education delivery across the province

On August 22, a transformative initiative rolled into Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation and the first cohort of students stepped into a classroom-on-wheels. Their first day of Health Care Aide training in Roseau River marked a trailblazing opportunity for healthcare education delivery in the province – a program born from months of collaboration, vision, and dedication.

It began as a conversation in February 2024 when Roseau River met with RRC Polytech to explore ways of expanding educational opportunities within the community. The Health Care Aide training program was chosen as the first initiative to develop and deliver in Roseau River because of its direct, practical benefits for the community.

The Mobile Training Lab was the solution that fit: a 950-square foot classroom on wheels that offers experiential learning that can be assembled right in community, complete with the same cutting-edge equipment found in on-campus labs in Winnipeg.

RRC Polytech’s Mobile Training Lab will be the hub for learning over the next six months. These state-of-the-art facilities bring hands-on learning directly to students – making post-secondary education accessible for students across Manitoba. Corporate Solutions worked with Facilities to deploy the labs and ensure that they run safely and efficiently.

“Offering the program right here in our community has been a huge benefit for students, particularly for those who don’t have reliable transportation. The community, along with Chief and Council, has been really supportive every step of the way. We’re excited to see this vision come to life with RRC Polytech, and we’re looking forward to expanding our offerings for even more programs here in the future,” said Skyla Sellner, Post-Secondary Coordinator for Roseau River.

Delivering education in-community creates new, effective pathways for learners to build meaningful careers in healthcare. Students can actively participate in innovation that directly contributes to the economic and social wellbeing of their communities without having to leave their homes for urban centres.

Health Care Aide student Stacey Patrick says that she was initially nervous to enter the program but the welcoming atmosphere made her feel right at home.

“I genuinely look forward to coming to class and learning something new every – it’s definitely a great opportunity that everyone should take advantage of. This program is the first of its kind, and we get to be part of history in the making,” said Patrick.

The Health Care Aide program enables students to develop the skills and knowledge to succeed as healthcare workers, helping others live with dignity and independence. Graduates working in health settings may assist hospital patients, personal care home residents or home care clients with their daily activities and physical, emotional, and social needs.

The federal Post-Secondary Partnership Program funded the program with support from Roseau River First Nation, RRC Polytech Corporate Solutions, and the School of Continuing and Distance Education.

A room in RRC Polytech’s residence at Paterson GlobalFoods Institute

For immediate release: September 3, 2025

Winnipeg, Manitoba on Treaty No. 1 Territory and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis –

RRC Polytech is offering a new housing alternative for students training at its Winnipeg campuses through a partnership with SpacesShared – and is looking for community members to open their doors.

“When a student comes to study at RRC Polytech we want to ensure they are supported – not only in their studies, but also in navigating Winnipeg and learning what our city has to offer,” says Giselle Martel, Vice-President, Finance and Administration at RRC Polytech. “We’ve entered into this partnership to provide students with safe, affordable and convenient options for housing off campus. Having this program in place will reduce the stress for students navigating the housing and rental market on their own and allow them to focus on their training.”

RRC Polytech’s student residence at the Paterson GlobalFoods Institute has accommodations for 102 students, but there is a need for other options to support students coming from other parts of the province, from across Canada and internationally.

SpacesShared connects students with safe and affordable housing, through intuitive technology, scheduled check-ins, and dedicated human support. The organization is committed to building, sustaining, and supporting intergenerational home-sharing and fostering meaningful connections between students and hosts.

“RRC Polytech is the first partnership SpacesShared has in Winnipeg and we’re excited to provide students with a great housing option,” says Rylan Kinnon, CEO of SpacesShared. “We’ve seen success in cities across Canada and know that students at RRC Polytech will create lifelong friendships with their hosts. Bringing people together creates incredible opportunities for bonding and we love to hear from our hosts and students about the experiences they share together.”

Currently, there are eight people registered to host RRC Polytech students through the service, with hopes that more will register prior to upcoming academic terms.

Enrico Madrid and his wife are among the first local homeowners to sign up as a potential host through SpacesShared. He says he’s looking forward to building connection and maybe continuing his own lifelong learning.

“I enjoy seeing how young people now approach studies and how they learn, because then I learn a new way of doing things,” he says. “But hopefully I can help them learn too – math has always been my favourite.”

Another reason he signed up to be a host is to potentially learn about different cultures.
“Learning different cultures is an advantage to everyone,” Enrico says.

For Hospitality Business Management graduate student Spila Lee, sharing cultures and creating a sense of community was an important part of her experience living in residence as a student at RRC Polytech. Lee says living with a host family would be a great way to integrate into Winnipeg’s way of life.

“The first year I was a resident I was quite impressed with all the activities I could join. I met a lot of different people, and I think it could be a similar experience for someone living with a host family,” she says. “Living in a house with locals gives you the opportunity to explore the neighbourhood, go to favourite restaurants and try activities that you might not always hear about.”

She said the most important thing is that there will be a level of support from host families that can help students be successful in their training.

“Especially for newcomers, we came without any family support – so having someone be supportive really matters. Whether on campus or with a host family it makes a really huge difference,” Lee says.

Community members interested in renting a room can visit the Off-Campus Housing section of RRC Polytech’s website to learn more or to register.

RRC Polytech’s Sustainability team is always looking for ways to reduce our collective environmental footprint. As they prepared for Red River Ready – an orientation event for new students – they drew inspiration from their experience at RED Forum 2025.

At RED Forum – an annual professional development day for employees – this past May, the Sustainability team handed out tomato seedlings grown at the Notre Dame Campus greenhouse. The tomato seedlings were leftovers from a partnership with Campus Well-Being’s Learn to Garden workshop earlier this spring.

“The tomato plants were a really great engagement piece and well received by staff and faculty. From this initiative, we thought something similar may be good for a student giveaway,” said Stephanie Fulford, Sustainability Specialist, Environmental Stewardship and Campus Renewal.

Red River Ready takes place annually the week before the Fall Term starts. Since late summer isn’t ideal for planting tomatoes, the team brainstormed for alternative, sustainable giveaway ideas. Rather than choosing conventional promotional items, which are often costly and destined for landfills, they set their sights on something both meaningful and eco-friendly, indoor succulents.

With a little creativity, team effort and the support of RRC Polytech’s Groundskeeping staff, their plan took shape. Every step in preparing the plants focused on sustainability – from making soil mix with compost from campus to reusing old plant pots from the greenhouse to propagating cuttings from existing plants.

On August 20 and 21, 250 succulents were handed out at the Exchange District and Notre Dame Campuses during Red River Ready.

“Students loved the plants and showed a lot of interest in how to water and care for them. They were a meaningful gift that sparked conversations about sustainability,” said Maria Hernandez Puschel, Environmental Initiative Coordinator, Environmental Stewardship and Campus Renewal.

To receive a succulent, students signed up for the Sustainability newsletter. Now, as the Fall Term gets underway, the Sustainability team continues to engage students and staff in making greener choices and advancing the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

Looking ahead, keep an eye out for upcoming sustainability initiatives. On September 9 and 10, Cycling Help Desks will pop up at EDC and NDC, offering expert advice on campus commuting routes, winter cycling tips, and answering any questions staff or students may have.

October is Circular Economy Month, a time focused on providing education on how to reduce waste by reusing, recycling or repurposing. The Sustainability team will be hosting an e-waste drive. Students and staff are invited to responsibly dispose of old technology in large bins at EDC and NDC. The NDC bin is located on the Mall Level near the Library; the EDC bin will be located outside the Roblin Centre Shipping and Receiving area (W101).

This spring, students will have the chance to participate in a contest highlighting how they have integrated the Sustainable Development Goals into their lives and studies.

For more updates on upcoming sustainability initiatives and campus events, visit rrc.ca/sustainability