In collaboration with the Actuarial Students’ National Association (ASNA), the Institute is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026 ASNA-CIA diversity, equity and inclusion scholarships. Each scholarship – valued at $3,000 – underscores the shared commitment to advancing DEI within the actuarial profession and beyond.
About the scholarships
The awards were presented during the CIA gala dinner at the 36th ANÉA-ASNA Convention in Ottawa on January 17. Three distinct scholarships recognize students who exemplify excellence and leadership:
- Academic Achievement Scholarship – awarded for outstanding academic performance and dedication to actuarial studies.
- Inclusive Culture Scholarship – honouring efforts to promote diversity, equity and inclusion within the actuarial community.
- Indigenous Award – celebrating an Indigenous student who demonstrates promise and leadership in the profession.
2026 recipients
Academic Achievement Scholarship: Mathieu Paradis
Mathieu is an actuarial science student at Concordia University with a strong academic record and a passion for mathematics. He has completed multiple internships in P&C insurance, and actively promotes DEI through free tutoring and mentorship for students in math and finance. His commitment to education and representation reflects his vision for a more inclusive profession.
Inclusive Culture Scholarship: Geshna (Shania) Kodai
Shania is an international student at the University of Ottawa in mathematics and is pursuing actuarial designations with the CIA and Society of Actuaries. She founded the university’s actuarial club and serves as a student ambassador, ASNA Head Delegate, and mentor. Through initiatives like securing ASNA funding for students and organizing outreach events, Shania champions accessibility and inclusion in the actuarial community.
Indigenous Award: Ruby Eger
Ruby, a proud Métis woman from Saskatchewan, is in her third year of actuarial science at the University of Regina. She advocates for cultural representation and equity in STEM fields, engaging in outreach to diverse high schools and uplifting Indigenous identity through community involvement. Alongside her studies, she is a professional dancer and choreographer with 16 years’ experience.
We look forward to the impact these future leaders will have on the actuarial profession.
Investing in a stronger future
ASNA-CIA scholarships demonstrate a commitment to an inclusive profession and to fostering innovation within the actuarial community.
“Our profession thrives when we embrace different perspectives and create opportunities for new actuaries from all backgrounds and experiences,” says Angelita Graham, FCIA and CIA President. “These scholarships reflect our ongoing commitment to creating an actuarial community where every member feels they belong and can be fully engaged in supporting the financial security of all Canadians.”
Sanjit Samanta, ASNA VP of Business Relations, added:
“Partnering with the CIA on these scholarships continues to be a proud tradition for ASNA. The strides that are being made to cultivating diversity and tackling social obstacles in this field are critical to forging a stronger Canadian actuarial community. We’re excited to see how these recipients will shape the future of actuarial science.”
Learn more about how the CIA supports future leaders and promotes an inclusive community.