On This Page You Will Find
- Gina Cody’s journey from student to business leader
- How she made history at Concordia University
- The impact of her $15 million donation
- Why her story inspires women in STEM
- How Canada benefits from immigrants like Gina Cody
A Journey Rooted in Education and Determination
Gina Cody arrived in Canada from Iran in 1979 during the revolution. With strong academic performance and the encouragement of her mother to pursue independence through education, she quickly found a home at Montréal’s Concordia University.
A Concordia professor, impressed with her marks, offered her a scholarship. Gina took the opportunity, completing her PhD in building engineering – and making history as the first woman to do so in her program.
Building a Career and a Legacy
Following her graduation, Gina launched a successful career in engineering. She was offered a job within a year, became a partner, and eventually the sole owner of her company. For three consecutive years, her firm was named one of Canada’s best managed companies.
Despite her busy professional life, Gina stayed connected to Concordia. She served on advisory committees and later joined the university’s board of governors. Her passion for giving back led her to consider making a gift to the institution that helped shape her career.
A Historic Donation to Concordia
In 2018, Gina Cody donated $15 million to Concordia University – a transformative contribution that made history. The university’s Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science was renamed the Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science. It became the first engineering faculty in Canada named after a woman.
Her donation established scholarships and bursaries for students, particularly those who might not otherwise have the financial means to study at the university. Gina’s gift ensures that the next generation of engineers – regardless of gender or background – can access the same opportunities she had.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in STEM
For students like Hannah Jack Halcro, President of Space Concordia, Gina Cody represents more than a donor – she is a symbol of what’s possible.
“She visited every student society, shook our hands, and asked about our work,” said Hannah. “Having a woman as the face of our school is a daily reminder that we belong in engineering and can do great things.”
For women navigating traditionally male-dominated fields like science and engineering, Gina’s visibility offers comfort, inspiration, and a sense of belonging.
Giving Back Is an Obligation
Gina’s philosophy is simple – when you are given opportunities, it becomes your responsibility to give back. Her signature in the Livre d’or of Montréal symbolises her lasting contributions to the city and to Canada.
She hopes her gift will start a cycle: recipients of her scholarships will go on to succeed and, in turn, help others. “That’s how Canada was made,” she says. “That’s how we will have an inclusive society.”
A City and Country Transformed by Immigrants
Gina Cody’s story is a shining example of how immigration strengthens Canada. In Montréal, immigrants make up 23 percent of the population. Nearly half a million immigrants working across Canada are trained in STEM fields.
Many international students, like Gina once was, choose to stay in Canada after graduation, boosting innovation and building a stronger economy. Their contributions go far beyond the classroom – they reshape communities, institutions, and industries.
FAQ
Who is Gina Cody?
Gina Cody is an Iranian–Canadian engineer and business leader who became the first woman to earn a PhD in building engineering from Concordia University. She later donated $15 million to the university.
Why is Concordia’s engineering school named after her?
In 2018, Gina Cody donated $15 million to Concordia. In recognition of her gift and achievements, the university renamed its engineering and computer science faculty in her honour.
What impact has Gina Cody had on students?
Her donation created scholarships and bursaries for students in financial need. She also serves as a role model for women in engineering and inspires students through her ongoing involvement.
What message does Gina Cody want to share?
Gina believes giving back to the community that supports you is a responsibility, not a choice. She hopes scholarship recipients will continue the cycle of generosity and inclusion.
How does her story reflect the value of immigration in Canada?
Gina’s journey shows how immigrants enrich Canadian society through education, innovation, and leadership. Her success demonstrates the long-term benefits of welcoming international students and skilled newcomers.
