UM’s newest graduates cross the stage at Spring Convocation June 1-5, 2026 at the Fort Garry campus; June 8 at Université de Saint-Boniface.
UM Convocation is a significant milestone on each student’s journey. From first lectures to final exams, their path leads to this: crossing the stage after years of hard work to receive their parchment in front of friends, family and fellow students.
In his message to grads, UM President and Vice-Chancellor Michael Benarroch encourages the class of 2026 to be bold.
“We are reimagining our place in the world, how we build our economies, strengthen our communities, and forge new partnerships,” he says. “This is a remarkable opportunity. Your education has given you a powerful tool to confront the challenges of our time with moral courage. Put trust in this and who you have become, and you will discover opportunities only a Bison can see.”
Join the celebration honouring the class of 2026’s achievements and cheer them on as they move forward to shape Manitoba and the world.
During Convocation, we celebrate the best and the brightest. Each student has an individual story about how they got here, what has inspired them and what they have learned. Explore their stories:
It's been a transformative five-year journey at the Asper School of Business for Kaiden Kalcsics. From finding out he was Metis as a teenager in Lorette, Man. to finding community and leadership opportunities as the President of the University of Manitoba Indigenous Commerce Students (UMICS), he expanded his views and experiences across continents. Read Kaiden's story.
Behind every university degree are years of dedication, perseverance and growth. For UM’s top graduates, that journey culminates in academic achievement at the highest level. Four award-winning grads reveal what it takes to earn top honours. Read their stories.
The past can be as visceral and thrilling as the present, something classics graduate Noah Leslie Adam experienced in vivid, unforgettable ways during his degree. His first dig in Corinth, Greece left a lasting impression as he learned that studying archaeology in the classroom is very different from practicing it in the field. Read Noah's story.
When Anastasia Yaworsky first started her Bachelor of Physical Education degree, she wanted to find a place where her love for health and fitness could make a real difference. In the Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management, she found exactly what she was looking for: a close community of people who wanted to help others. Read Anastasia's story.
Along with celebrating student achievement, Convocation is a time for the university to recognize individuals who have demonstrated achievement in the arts, culture, science, scholarship or public service. At the Spring 2026 ceremonies, honorary degrees will be bestowed on: Steven J. Kroft; Barbara Bruce, Flies High Thunderbird and Truth Talker; Guy Gavriel Kay and Marcia Kran.
Read more about these extraordinary Canadians.
Teaching excellence will also be honoured:
Learn more about all the award recipients in the Convocation program.
UM Bisons are at the centre of it all, making a difference here in Manitoba and around the world. Many graduates recognized at Convocation will stay in Manitoba, supplying high-demand skills to the labour market and contributing to UM’s economic impact on our community.
The Bisons Integrated Support Team brings a holistic approach to supporting student-athletes
It takes human-centered teaching, genuine care for students, and innovative assignments that encourage critical thinking.
From advocating for Indigenous Peoples at the UN to becoming Chief of her First Nation, this law student remains unstoppable.
Student exhibit examines health and social issues
