FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 18, 2026
Baltimore, MD — Global Refuge today announced the addition of two distinguished leaders to its Board of Directors, strengthening the organization’s governance and advancing its faith-based mission to walk alongside refugees and other immigrants across the United States.
The new board members bring deep expertise and a shared commitment to humanitarian values at a pivotal moment for refugee protection and immigrant integration efforts nationwide. Their leadership will help guide Global Refuge as it continues to strengthen programs, respond to emerging needs, and advocate for policies rooted in dignity, welcome, and opportunity.
“These new members join our board at a critical moment for both Global Refuge and the families we serve, as the need for trusted and compassionate support continues to grow nationwide,” said Krish O'Mara Vignarajah, President and CEO of Global Refuge. “Their perspectives and leadership will strengthen our ability to meet urgent challenges, steward our mission responsibly, and continue building an organization that reflects the best of our shared values.”
Bryn Parchman, Chair of Global Refuge’s Board of Directors, emphasized the importance of the appointments as the organization looks ahead. “Strong, principled leadership has always been at the heart of Global Refuge’s impact. At a time when so many families are seeking safety and stability, we are honored to welcome board members whose experience, integrity, and commitment to service will help ensure that our work remains bold, effective, and grounded in real impact.”
Rev. Dr. Terry Brandt is a nonprofit leader with over 27 years of experience in nonprofit stewardship, including the roles of Executive Director at the Offutt Family Foundation, Vice President for Advancement at Concordia College, and Bishop of Eastern North Dakota Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. His dedication to meaningful connections and community impact underpins his work, as he continues to lead efforts that inspire positive, lasting change. He excels in strategic philanthropy, advancing organizational missions, and driving impactful community initiatives through collaboration and innovative programming.
Sean T. Long, Sr. has founded and lead energy businesses in Africa and elsewhere throughout his more than 30 years of experience in global energy investments and has sat on a number of non-profit boards and committees supporting both international business and university-based initiatives. Mr. Long also served as an officer in the United States Army resigning his commission as a Captain. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering (computer architecture specialty) from the United States Military Academy at West Point and later earned his Juris Doctorate from Columbia University School of Law. Admitted in 1993, Mr. Long is a member of the New York State Bar.
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About Global Refuge:
Global Refuge, formerly Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, is the largest faith-based nonprofit dedicated exclusively to serving refugee children and families. For 85 years, we have welcomed those seeking refuge, upholding a legacy of compassion and grace for people in crisis. We walk alongside individuals, families, and children as they begin their new lives in the United States through our work in refugee resettlement, economic empowerment and employment, and family unification for unaccompanied children. Since our founding in 1939, we have served over 800,000 people from around the globe.
