Brandon University Hosts Notable Events for Black History Month

Brandon University will host significant events this week in celebration of Black History Month. Notable speaker Bukola Salami, a Canada Research Chair from the University of Calgary, is set to lead discussions for students and faculty. She will also give a public talk focusing on access to health care for Black and racialized individuals in Canada. This event will take place on February 14, 2026, from 12:30 to 13:30 in the Gathering Space of the John E. Robbins Library. Attendance is free, but pre-registration is required online at Events.BrandonU.ca.

In addition to Salami’s presentation, the university will feature a talk by Mark McDougall from the Department of Biology, who will explore the early evolution of terrestrial vertebrates. This talk, part of the Science Seminar Series, is scheduled for February 16, 2026, at 14:30 in Room 4-34 of the John R. Brodie Science Centre. The seminar will also be available online, with interested individuals encouraged to email [email protected] for further details.

The Bobcat volleyball and futsal teams are concluding their regular season with away games this weekend. Furthermore, the Canada West basketball playoffs will commence, marking a pivotal moment in the athletic calendar.

Brandon University will also participate in the Loy and Excellentia Initiative’s Black History Month celebration on February 17, 2026. This initiative focuses on mentorship for Black university students, and additional information can be found at LoyExcellentia.org.

For those interested in physical activities, the Healthy Living Centre will offer “Learn to Play Pickleball” sessions on February 15 and March 1, 2026, from 09:00 to 11:00 each day. These sessions are open to participants of all skill levels, and registration details are available at HealthyLivingCentre.ca.

Brandon University will close on February 16, 2026, in observance of Louis Riel Day, with students scheduled to enjoy winter break the following week. Classes will resume on February 23, 2026.

At Assiniboine College, the Students’ Association is hosting a series of events in recognition of Black History Month. Students can find information on all student-led activities at assiniboinestudents.ca. Additionally, the college is celebrating Infinity Week, which aims to promote Indigenous culture and teachings through a variety of activities and speakers.

The annual Parkland campus alumni celebration is also taking place this week, honoring three distinguished alumni. Tickets are available by contacting [email protected] or by calling 204-622-2222.

In sports, Assiniboine College will host a “Cheers ‘n’ Beers” event during futsal and volleyball games this weekend at the Victoria Avenue East gymnasium. The college also invites students to participate in Olympic Spirit Week. Participants can share their experiences on social media using the hashtag #OlympicSpiritWeek.

These events reflect the vibrant campus life and community engagement at Brandon University and Assiniboine College, highlighting the importance of cultural awareness and academic discourse.