The conference, held in partnership with The Business Council of Westchester (BCW), focused on artificial intelligence's role in cybersecurity

Pace University’s Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems, in collaboration with The Business Council of Westchester (BCW), hosted a conference exploring cutting-edge advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and its transformative role in fortifying cybersecurity measures.

As part of the BCW’s yearlong AI Alliance 360° program, the conference examined advances and challenges in artificial intelligence and how it is impacting the world of cybersecurity in business and academia within the context of Westchester County.

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The panel consisted of business leaders, cybersecurity experts, and faculty from the Seidenberg School of at Pace University. This includes Vipul Nagrath, senior vice president of product development for ADP, Robert Cioffi, CTO and co-founder of Progressive Computing, Antony K. Haynes, partner for Dorf Nelson & Zauderer LLP, Jonathan Hill, dean of the Seidenberg School, Joe Acampora, clinical assistant professor of information technology and director of Pace Cyber Range, Li-Chiou Chen, professor of information technology and executive director of Pace Cyber Center, and David Sachs, professor of information technology.

“We’re honored to host such an important conversation about the role of AI in cybersecurity and proud of our continued partnership with the Business Council of Westchester,” said Marvin Krislov, president of Pace University. ”AI is changing the ways in which we do work and we’re constantly identifying ways to harness it on behalf of our students. With our cutting-edge research, exceptional & dedicated faculty, and world-class facilities like our Cyber Range, we are prepared for what the future holds and are ready to lead the way in this field.”

“Here at Pace, we’re blessed with a deep bench of faculty and staff doing exceptional work on the frontlines of AI and cybersecurity,” said Jonathan Hill, dean of the Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems. “At the same time, there are very intelligent people working to undermine those efforts.”

“Our reliance on digital infrastructure increases every day, making cybersecurity more important than ever,” said Marsha Gordon, president and CEO of BCW. “BCW is proud to lead these critical discussions on how AI's role in cybersecurity, especially for the business community.”

“AI can be used as a tool to defend our technological systems, but it can also be used and exploited to attack them,” said Li-Chiou Chen., Professor of Information Technology and Executive Director of Pace Cyber Center “How we train, reinforce, and maintain the AI systems that we use to protect our cybersecurity will ultimately determine their success.”

“AI is an amazing thing, but we have to remember that it’s not a set and forget technological solution for cybersecurity,” said Joe Acampora, Clinical Assistant Professor of Information Technology and Director of Pace Cyber Range. “We need to be constantly monitoring and upgrading because hackers are doing the same.”

Pace has focused on experiential learning, expanding its commitment in academic areas such as IT, artificial intelligence and cyber. Pace University’s Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems is one of the country’s few Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CDE) with a re-designation from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the National Security Agency (NSA). In addition, Pace recently signed an Education Partnership Agreement with the NSA to play a major role in developing talent and tools for possible national security challenges.

The Seidenberg School recently opened an intelligence lab on Pace’s. The AI lab offers training opportunities for students, staff, faculty business and community members. On the Pleasantville campus, Pace openeda Cyber Range, a state-of-the-art lab where students learn how to identify and defend against cybersecurity attacks in real-time through interactive, simulated platforms.

Next year, Pace plans to offer two new graduate programs focused on Artificial Intelligence. These programs include a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence, which places a strong emphasis on theory and the development of AI applications. The second program will be a Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence and provide students with hands-on training on how AI can be used in business and other areas to generate value.

About Pace University

Since 1906, Pace University has been transforming the lives of its diverse students—academically, professionally, and socioeconomically. With campuses in New York City and Westchester County, Pace offers bachelor, master, and doctoral degree programs to 13,600 students in its College of Health Professions, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Elisabeth Haub School of Law, Lubin School of Business, Sands College of Performing Arts, School of Education, and Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems.

About the Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems at Pace University

The Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems at Pace University is a leading institute of technology education. Students experience a dynamic and expansive technology education at the undergraduate and graduate levels. One of the first comprehensive schools of computing in the nation, the Seidenberg School is strategically located in the heart of NYC’s tech scene, right on the doorstep of New York’s most promising companies. With access to established tech giants and exciting new start-ups from both the New York City and the Westchester campus, Seidenberg offers the opportunity to connect, intern with, and enjoy lucrative tech jobs following graduation. Through partnerships with leading tech firms, banks, federal agencies, and global institutions, the school’s curricula and programs are designed to ground students in the fundamentals while offering numerous hands-on experiential learning opportunities. The faculty includes numerous experts in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, game development, software engineering, and much more, who operate labs and centers providing students with practical experience and connections that lead to impressive internships and jobs.

Patricia (Tricia) Feighan ‘94 and her daughter, Michelle, a current 2L at Haub Law, have deep family ties to Pace. “My father, Philip B. Blank, was Associate Dean for External Affairs and Professor of Law at what was then known as Pace University School of Law,” said Tricia. “He was a huge advocate for the Law School and for women to pursue legal careers. He encouraged me early on to pursue my dream of following in his footsteps.” Deciding to attend Haub Law was a natural choice for Tricia. She was working full-time and while she wanted to pursue her dream of the law, she also needed to continue working. “Haub Law was known to have a great part-time program with many night classes and the location was ideal. I knew if I attended Haub Law, I would have a solid foundation to begin my law career.”

While it was at an early age that Tricia started thinking about going to law school, the decision came a bit later to her daughter, Michelle. “As a history major in my undergraduate studies, I had a strong interest in American History,” said Michelle. “I developed an appreciation for the American justice system and enjoyed learning about how the development of our country shaped our laws and the U.S. Constitution. I also took note of the attorneys throughout history who brought about positive change to our world through their careers. I noticed how a legal degree could advance someone’s skills and knowledge, and also give them the ability to bring positive change to people’s lives. While my mother’s career as an attorney had made me consider law school, my interest in my studies was ultimately why I decided to pursue a legal career. Once I took an interest in attending law school, my mother was extremely excited for me. The strong family affiliation with Pace was a bonus for me once I decided to pursue a law degree. Between that, and the positive experiences I had heard of students who did attend Haub Law, I was confident that I would receive a high-quality education to prepare me for my future legal career.”

Thus far, Michelle’s law school experience has been an extremely positive one. “I have truly enjoyed my classes and am grateful for the opportunity to learn from such intelligent and experienced professors. I have spent the past year interning as a law clerk at an immigration law firm, which has provided me with valuable hands-on experience working at a small firm. However, having taken an interest in criminal law classes throughout my 2L year, I have recently accepted an offer as an intern with the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office for this upcoming summer. I feel that the education I am receiving and the experiences I have had in and out of the classroom are preparing me well for my legal career.”

Looking back, Tricia had a similarly positive experience during her time at Haub Law. “I was working during the day, attending law school at night, and I had my first two children while I was in law school. Haub Law allowed me, as a working mother, to be able to fulfill my dream of being an attorney. After a number of years practicing post-law school, I decided to leverage my technical undergraduate degree in addition to my law degree. Having graduated college from Pace University with a Bachelor of Science in computer science, I was eligible to take the patent bar. I am a registered patent attorney with the USPTO and employed by IBM as an IP law attorney. I am currently Counsel and Manager of a patent department.”

For both Tricia and Michelle, attending the same law school has played such a positive role in both of their lives and careers. “My mother has truly supported me along the way and helped me pursue this path,” said Michelle. “When deciding which school to attend, I had the chance to listen to her experiences as a student at Haub Law and understand how this school helped her get to where she is today. She was a strong influence on my decision to choose Haub Law. Now, as a 2L, I enjoy talking to her about my current classes and sharing my experiences. We even discuss professors that we now both have had the opportunity to learn from. I am truly grateful to get to share this part of my life with my mother, it has been a very special experience for both of us.”

For Tricia, life has come full circle with her daughter attending Haub Law, albeit a bit bittersweet. “I think so highly of Pace and was so excited when Michelle decided to attend the same law school that I did, but also that my father was so proud to work at for so many years,” said Tricia. “Although my father passed away while I was in college, I know he was watching over me as I pursued my dream and I want Michelle to know that I will always be cheering her on and encouraging her, just as my father did for me. I graduated from law school on my father’s birthday. I know in my heart he is so proud to see Michelle and I have carried on the family legal legacy and even more proud we both attended Pace, a school he believed in, was dedicated to and was so passionate about.”

NEW YORK, N.Y. May 20, 2024 – Standing before thousands of graduates and their supporters at Pace University’s Commencement, Tony Award-winning actor LaChanze addressed the graduating class of 2024.

“Let go of the reins that you have held onto for the past few years,” she said. “Let go of the impulse to control outcome. Let go of the voices in your head telling you to worry, to be anxious, and to fear the unknown. This challenge is meant to assure you that by letting go you make room for this new perspective. For inspiration, creativity, and the energy you will need to keep evolving.”

Speaking to roughly 20,000 people including 4,093 graduates at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, LaChanze shared her journey to Broadway and beyond, reminding students that while following their dreams wouldn’t always be easy, the rewards would always be worth the effort.

LaChanze, who received a Doctor of Humane Letters degree, honoris causa, was among many highlights throughout the day that included five ceremonies, student speakers, a food village, music, and lots of Commencement festivities. The day culminated with the conferral of nearly 4,100 degrees including 2,382 masters’, which is the largest number in over five years. In a graduation reflective of Pace’s theme of Opportunitas, graduates and their families celebrated a day of joy, achievement and looking forward to the future.

In addition, the Elisabeth Haub School of Law, which recently earned the No. 1 ranking for Environmental Law by U.S. News & World Report for the fourth consecutive year, graduated 254 students.

Chief Judge of the New York State Court of Appeals, the Honorable Rowan D. Wilson received the Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, the highest honor conferred by the Law School, recognizing his lifelong contributions to public service and the legal profession.

“Put honesty first, whether you are interacting with courts, clients, adversaries or colleagues,” said Judge Wilson. “Remember that the historical core of your profession is compassion, not craftiness. Devote some meaningful measure of your time to helping those who cannot afford your assistance, but who desperately need it.”

Former president of DC Comics Paul Levitz addressed the joint afternoon ceremony for the Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Sands College of Performing Arts, and School of Education where he received an honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters. President of The Mount Sinai Hospital and Mount Sinai Queens, David L. Reich, MD addressed graduates of the College of Health Professions and Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems. Pace also awarded Angella and Danroy Henry, parents of former Pace student Danroy “DJ” Henry Jr. and founders of the DJ Henry Dream Fund, with its Opportunitas in Action Award.

DJ Henry was a Pace Student and a member of the football team. His life was tragically cut short on October 17, 2010 when he was shot and killed by a Pleasantville police officer.

During the main ceremony, Pace University President Marvin Krislov told the graduates he was incredibly proud of them and was impressed by their strength and resilience. He noted that many of the graduates did not have a high school graduation in 2020. Thus, making this ceremony more meaningful for them, their families, and their friends.

“Everyone has faced obstacles — a health challenge, a career setback, a loss,” said President Krislov. “But I have learned that everyone has kindness, generosity, and unique talents. As you move forward through the world, I urge you to always practice empathy.”

In closing, Krislov asked the graduates to remember three things: to commit to being citizens of the world and keep learning; to be open and share their story with others and learn others’ stories; and to remain active and part of the Pace Community.

In addition to the main ceremony, New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins received an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters.

“Your hard work and dedication have brought you to this pivotal moment,” said Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins to graduates via video. “As you embark on your new journeys, I encourage you to stay true to your values, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and pursue your dreams with relentless determination.”

Students celebrating this exciting achievement were a mix of undergraduate, graduate, law, and doctoral students, spanning a variety of disciplines and future careers, such as nurses and physician assistants, cybersecurity experts, lawyers, accountants, teachers, performers, and much more.

Number of Graduates by School

College of Health Professions

• Undergraduate: 244
• Graduate: 381

Dyson College of Arts and Sciences

• Undergraduate: 683
• Graduate: 286

Lubin School of Business

• Undergraduate: 510
• Graduate: 437

Sands College of Performing Arts

• Undergraduate: 138
• Graduate: 22

Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems

• Undergraduate: 92
• Graduate: 731

School of Education

• Undergraduate: 44
• Graduate: 271

Elisabeth Haub School of Law

• 254 JD degrees
• 10 Master of Laws in Comparative Legal Studies
• 7 Master of Laws in Environmental Studies
• 1 Doctor of Juridical Science

About Pace University

Since 1906, Pace University has been transforming the lives of its diverse students—academically, professionally, and socioeconomically. With campuses in New York City and Westchester County, Pace offers bachelor, master, and doctoral degree programs to 13,600 students in its College of Health Professions, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Elisabeth Haub School of Law, Lubin School of Business, School of Education, Sands College of Performing Arts, and Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems.