A momentous first! On June 24, MDS Program Director James Milner was named Canada’s first Sergio Vieira de Mello Chair. As Chair, Dr. Milner will lead a three-year pilot program that includes the intended development of an education pathway to permanent residence in Canada for refugee students. Dr. Milner’s hosting of the de Mello Chair was a key commitment included in two new Memorandums of Understanding— one with the Office of the United Nationals High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR Canada) and one with Jumpstart Refugee Talent—to support global refugee responses including teaching, research and community outreach activities that address forcible displacement.