UMSU’s Board of Directors met on Oct. 24 in the UMSU Council Chambers at U of M’s Fort Garry campus. Present were representatives from over 20 student associations, along with UMSU staff and executives.
As part of its ongoing efforts to support student well-being, UMSU announced that free flu and COVID-19 vaccinations will be available through the UMSU Healthcare Clinic. The clinic will operate out of the GSA Lounge on the second floor of UMSU University Centre from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., operating on a first-come, first-served basis. Students are encouraged to bring their Manitoba health card or equivalent documentation. Those with coverage can receive vaccines at no cost.
UMSU executives reaffirmed their commitment to accessible reproductive healthcare, including educational resources and information on how to safely access abortion services. Students seeking support can access confidential referrals through the StudentCare health plan and on-campus services such as the Student Counselling Centre and University Health Service. UMSU emphasized that advocating for safe, informed reproductive care continues to be a core part of its broader health and equity work, ensuring that students can access reproductive and abortion-related healthcare without stigma or misinformation.
Midway through the evening, the board entered a private session lasting 105 minutes, temporarily clearing the room of non-members.
The closed discussion reportedly centred on a potential breach of UMSU’s non-disclosure agreement (NDA) policy, with sources indicating that vice president external affairs (VPEA), Jared Ramos Murphy, was under review in relation to the matter. When the public session resumed, the board continued business under the same agenda but introduced a revision, changing the language from “determined” to “alleged” in the motion concerning the suspension and investigation of the VPEA. An ad hoc committee was formed at the meeting to further investigate these allegations.
Ramos Murphy, in a statement made to the Manitoban, shared, “This is a very serious accusation and an ongoing investigation. I would never knowingly break my NDA, and look forward to clearing my name.”
Executives also highlighted recent advocacy work, including a meeting with Minister of Municipal and Northern Relations Glen Simard, where UMSU discussed key issues affecting students such as high tuition fees and access to healthcare for international students.
UMSU also announced that new microwaves will be installed in University Centre, improving campus amenities for students.
Feedback regarding student experiences with Winnipeg Transit has also been actively collected to better cater for student needs. UMSU tabled a report at the Manitoba Legislature and continues to advocate for an improved public transit system.
The board also received updates on events and ongoing initiatives across campus such as the ReShop program, which redistributes used furniture and supplies to reduce waste and promote sustainability, and UMSU Ventures, which offers resources for student entrepreneurs. Updates were also shared on hardship funding, travel grants, holiday hampers and gift card giveaways to support students facing financial challenges.
Community events were also detailed, including Diwali celebrations, mental health tabling with pet therapy and planning for the Lunar New Year in February 2026.
The meeting closed with reminders about ongoing campus initiatives and anticipation for the upcoming annual general meeting as the board continues to prioritize transparency, internal accountability and student well-being. Students-at-large in attendance expressed interest in hearing future updates regarding the NDA breach discussions and any resulting decisions.
