A Formula for Success: Lisa Fastenberg Joins Pace’s Board of Trustees

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Meet Lisa Fastenberg, PhD, a math enthusiast, dedicated educator, and now a member of Pace University’s Board of Trustees. As an associate professor and chair of the Mathematics Department in Dyson College of Arts and Sciences at Pace’s Pleasantville Campus, Professor Fastenberg has been shaping minds and leading academic innovation since 2001.

Her three-year term on the Board is the latest chapter in her Pace story—a story rich with leadership and impact. Since taking the helm of the Mathematics Department in 2013, she’s led a redesign of the math curriculum to better support students, improving both their success and retention.

“Lisa’s dedication to education and her innovative approach will be a tremendous asset to the Board,” shared Rob Sands, chair of the Board of Trustees. “She truly embodies what Pace is all about.”

In the classroom, Professor Fastenberg is known for her ability to make math accessible and engaging. From developmental courses to advanced topics in number theory, her passion for teaching is evident. Her research? It dives deep into the rank of elliptic surfaces in characteristic zero—a fascinating area of number theory.

Beyond teaching, she’s been a driving force in shaping Pace’s community. Whether co-chairing the Retention Task Force or leading faculty council initiatives, Professor Fastenberg has been at the forefront of making Pace an even better place for students and faculty alike.

“I’m honored to join the Board of Trustees,” said Fastenberg. “After more than two decades of teaching and working alongside our students, I’m excited to bring the faculty perspective to the Board’s efforts.”

Her journey began with a BA in history from the University of Pennsylvania and a doctorate in mathematics from Yale University. Before joining Pace, she held academic positions at institutions like McGill and Concordia Universities, the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and Yeshiva University.

Professor Fastenberg’s appointment underscores Pace’s commitment to fostering leadership and innovation within its community. And with her on board, the future looks bright.