A dedicated friend of Stony Brook and a pivotal supporter of work on autism at the University, Matthew J. Cody served on the Stony Brook Foundation Board of Trustees from 2001 to 2012 and as Treasurer between 2003 and 2012. Together with his wife Debra A. Cody, Matt Cody was instrumental in furthering advances in research and care for children with autism and autism spectrum disorders. The Cody Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities at Stony Brook is named in recognition of their significant philanthropic support.
Matt’s strong commitment to a vision of what he called an “all-encompassing, multidisciplinary Center, from diagnosis to elder care, from education and research to clinical services and outreach” stemmed from his and Debra’s experiences with their three autistic children. At the time that the children were born, there was little support on Long Island for families facing the challenges of autism and related developmental disabilities, and Matt and Debra’s loyal dedication to the Cody Center continues to change the lives of the Center’s patients and the lives of those who love them.
A former general partner with broker-dealer Spear, Leeds & Kellogg and CEO of its subsidiary Troster Singer as well as a member of the John T. Mather Hospital’s Board of Directors, Matt’s legacy goes well beyond the Cody Center. Our Stony Brook University community paid tribute to Matt at the 2003 Stars of Stony Brook Gala and with an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters in 2004. We honor Matt’s memory and recognize his lasting contributions to Stony Brook and the greater community. Our deepest sympathy and condolences go out to Matt’s family and friends.
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