Join JMU’s Center for International Stabilization and Recovery for

Banking on Belonging:

Why Investing in Refugee Entrepreneurs Benefits Everyone

Monday, March 30, 2026 @5pm, Showker Hall 1112

Join the Center for International Stabilization and Recovery (CISR) as we welcome Dr. Christine Mahoney, Associate Professor of Public Policy & Politics and Chief Innovation Officer at the Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy at the University of Virginia, to discuss her newest book, Banking on Belonging: Why Investing in Refugee Entrepreneurs Benefits Everyone.

The year 2025 marked massive declines in global humanitarian aid, driven by an 81% cut in U.S. aid and cuts across the board by top donor countries. This contraction comes as wars around the world drive global displacement numbers over 100 million. In the face of severe human suffering and a collapsing humanitarian aid system, a new movement of change makers has emerged: entrepreneurs, impact investors, and creative policymakers are developing new solutions to support refugees and the communities hosting them. 

Join CISR and Dr. Mahoney as she highlights some of the most successful private sector strategies to support those fleeing violence and building economies of belonging. 

All events are free and open to the public.

PARKING

Guests to JMU may redeem a virtual visitor parking pass allowing you to park free of charge in all standard spaces on campus. There is no physical parking pass issued.

To redeem a virtual permit, please go to https://jmu.aimsparking.com and click on “Redeem Event Permit.” You will be prompted to select the event, enter the event code, and enter your vehicle information. Upon confirming the transaction, you will receive an email receipt. Directions for redeeming visitor permits can be found online at How to Redeem Your Virtual Parking Permit.