Our Story
A rich history of nurturing global citizens
While we received our University charter in 1967, our roots stretch back more than 145 years to an era of unprecedented growth and energy that gripped Winnipeg at the turn of last century. In 1938, Manitoba College and Wesley College joined forces to become United College, rooted in the new social gospel movement, founded on the ideal that faith and politics can intersect to create lasting social change.
This formed the ethos of United College, and became part of the fabric of the UWinnipeg that remains today: whether our students are visualizing climate change, advancing human rights or tutoring incarcerated young offenders – we remain a place that fosters a social justice conscience.
We are an anchor in inner-city renewal and downtown development, and although our footprint has expanded with construction of new LEED buildings, we have reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 30% compared to 1990 levels, with sustainability central to our mission.
UWinnipeg has a strong community learning focus aimed at breaking down barriers so under-represented youth may develop a university-bound identity. In partnership with the community, we offer homework clubs, summer adventure camps, math classes, Indigenous language programs, a pow wow club and inner-city sports teams for youth.
Located on Treaty One land, in the heart of the Métis homeland, UWinnipeg is surrounded by one of the most ethnically diverse communities in Canada. We proudly reflect this reality with our 10,000 students. Approximately 10% self-identify as First Nations, Métis, and Inuit. A further 22% of our students self-identify as racialized, including refugees and war-affected youth.
We are one of the first universities in Canada to introduce a mandatory Indigenous course requirement (2016), and in keeping with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission report, we are committed to the ongoing Indigenization of our academy.
Our motto is--- Lux et Veritas Floreant - Let Light and Truth Flourish.