In March 2003 Dr. Tom Carter of the University of Winnipeg was named the Canada Research Chair in Urban Change and Adaptation. Over the last 25 years, Dr. Carter has gained worldwide recognition as an international authority on urban policy and housing issues. The depth and scope of his research on critical issues such as rural housing, Aboriginal communities and inner-city housing continue to play a major role in generating workable solutions for many communities in Canada and abroad. The three broad objectives of the seven-year research program are to develop a better understanding of the processes of urban decline, to evaluate the effectiveness of initiatives introduced to arrest decline, and to suggest more effective policy and program tools to restore vitality and improve the quality of life in declining neighbourhoods. Work in this area will necessitate research on a broad number of issues ranging from regional growth strategies to housing need, to challenges facing Aboriginals in Winnipeg to revitalizing Winnipeg’s central business district. Comparative study material from other cities in Canada and abroad will be part of the research program.