VIDEO: First, But Not the Last

Our First, But Not the Last video series celebrates six Concordia alumni who were the first in their families to graduate from university — traiblazers whose achievements opened doors far beyond their own.

In short video interviews, they reflect on the challenges they faced, the support they found and the pride of reaching a milestone that reshaped what was possible for those who followed.

Unveiling one story each week on our Concordia Alumni social media platforms, the series will highlight how a first step can spark lasting change — within families, communities and generations to come.

Meet the Concordians carving a new path.

Charlie Kawwas, BEng 93, MASc 99, PhD 07, DSc 25

President, Broadcom Inc.

“Concordia is a very special place for me — the university gave me an amazing and golden opportunity.”

Also featured in this video is Charlie’s son, Nicholas Kawwas, BEng 24, current Concordia PhD candidate.

Tina Wayland, BA 96, MA 24

Published author and storyteller

“It was, hands down, the best thing I’ve ever done for my adult self.”

Emilio Imbriglio, BComm 81, GrDip 82

Executive fellow, John Molson School of Business

“If others have done it, you can do it — just follow your passion.”

Paul Chesser, BA 94, GrDip 97

Vice-president, Concordia University Advancement

“At a time when I wasn’t exactly sure what I needed to do, I felt that university was going to open a lot of doors for me.”

Prabhpal Kaur, BEng 25

Mechanical engineering graduate

“If you have a determination, if you work hard, everything is possible.”

Jean Tawil, BComm 24

Customer relationship management executive, BAT

“It’s not about having the piece of paper. It’s about having your family — that believed in you for so many years — see that you finally did it.”