Pace University’s Sands College of Performing Arts and The Broadway League Launch Career Pathway Program

On September 14, 2024, Pace University’s Sands College of Performing Arts and The Broadway League introduced the Career Pathway pilot program—an exciting new initiative aimed at providing aspiring theatre professionals with invaluable industry insights and connections. The event, held on Pace’s New York City Campus, brought together forty students and six distinguished Broadway professionals in casting, marketing, and producing.

Sands College's Musical Theatre and Commercial Dance Department Chair Jesse Carlo, PhD, opened the event with a warm welcome. A panel discussion followed, featuring industry leaders Kristian Charbonier, Toni Isreal, Sammy Lopez, Xavier Rubiano, Aaliytha Stevens, and George Strus, who shared their personal career journeys and advice on navigating behind-the-scenes roles in the theatre industry. Moderated by The Broadway League’s Darrelle Johnson (Director of Inclusion and Diversity) and Tré Dukes (EDI Associate), the panel provided students with an inside look at Broadway’s diverse career pathways.

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Students then participated in breakout sessions focused on casting, marketing, and producing, where they received practical, firsthand advice from the panelists. The day concluded with a networking session that allowed students to connect directly with industry leaders and foster valuable relationships.

This landmark partnership exemplifies Pace University’s commitment to connecting academics with real-world experience. It gives students direct access to influential voices, empowering them to pursue their passions and build successful, impactful careers in the performing arts. "We are so thrilled about this new partnership with The Broadway League," Jesse Carlo said. "At Sands, we are aware of the importance of introducing our students to the full breadth of the industry and the extraordinary opportunities that exposure provides. We are looking forward to many more collaborations with The League."