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At Pace University, Professor Courtney Gosnell, PhD, is helping students see psychology not only as a field of study, but as a way of understanding the relationships that shape everyday life.

A faculty member in the undergraduate Psychology program, Pleasantville campus, Gosnell focuses her research on how people navigate close relationships in both joyful and difficult moments. Her work specifically examines social support, emotional connection, and the ways people sustain important bonds even in an increasingly divided world.

Through that scholarship, and through her close mentorship of students, Gosnell reflects the kind of engaged, student-centered faculty expertise that distinguishes Pace’s Psychology program, recently recognized by US News & World Report as a Best Psychology program.

Researching the Power of Support in Good Times and Bad

Much of Gosnell’s research centers on social support; however, while many studies in the field of psychology have focused on how people help one another through hardship, Gosnell has also examined how people celebrate one another and what happens when good news is shared.

This area, known as “capitalization support,” looks at how people respond when a loved one, for example, experiences something positive, such as a promotion, engagement, or personal achievement.

“When we think about social support, we often focus on how people show up during difficult moments. But what we’ve found is that how people respond to your good news can be just as meaningful—if not more so—in shaping how supported you feel overall,” she said.

This insight is important to the field because it expands how psychologists understand well-being, resilience, and the role of relationships in everyday mental health.

Addressing Polarization Through Relationship Research

Gosnell has also more recently turned her attention to a timely and urgent topic: how close relationships endure across political differences.

She has explored what it means to maintain relationships with parents, siblings, romantic partners, and other loved ones whose political views may differ sharply from one’s own. Her projects also consider how outside forces, including election outcomes and media messaging, can influence how people feel about those relationships.

This research is especially relevant in today’s period of heightened social and political polarization, and it brings an important interpersonal lens to a subject often discussed only at the group or partisan level. By studying how people preserve connections amid disagreement, Gosnell is contributing to a richer understanding of conflict, communication, and the everyday realities of social division.

Bringing Research to Life for Pace Students

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At Pace, Gosnell helps students move beyond textbook definitions and into experiential discoveries.

She works extensively with students, engaging them in participation both at research conferences and in research-focused settings, including the Psychology Department’s experimental psychology course sequence, in which they spend a full academic year developing their own studies. In the process, students learn how to generate research questions, review literature, submit materials for institutional review board approval, collect and analyze data, and present their findings.

Gosnell also teaches students in mentored lab experiences, that allow them to earn course credit through direct faculty-guided research, often funded by the Provost Office’s Undergraduate Research program. Her hands-on approach gives undergraduates the kind of substantive research training often associated with graduate education, helping them build practical skills in collaboration, communication, leadership, and analysis.

She said, “One of the most rewarding aspects of teaching is watching students realize they can ask their own questions and design a study to answer them. That moment of discovery is incredibly powerful.”

Mentorship That Opens Doors

Asked what makes the Pace Psychology program distinctive, Gosnell points to the close faculty-student connections that are possible on the Pleasantville campus.

For Gosnell, that combination of personal attention, meaningful mentorship, and experiential learning is a defining strength of Pace. It is also what makes the program such a strong environment for aspiring psychologists to grow, explore, and succeed in a wide range of future careers.

“At Pace, students have the opportunity to work closely with faculty and get involved in research early on. That hands-on experience, combined with strong mentorship, really sets our program apart,” she said.

World University Leaders Forum convenes international experts to examine the future of AI in universities

Global leaders in higher education, policy, and technology gathered at Pace University’s New York City campus on Monday for Intelligent Futures: The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Shaping Universities and Higher Education, a one-day international conference exploring how AI is transforming the future of universities worldwide.

The event, organized by the World University Leaders Forum (WULF) in partnership with O.P. Jindal Global University, brought together university presidents, faculty, and policymakers to explore AI’s impact on teaching, research, governance, and the student experience. A central theme throughout the day was the growing need for ethical frameworks and responsible oversight as institutions adopt AI at scale.

“Artificial intelligence has come to stay, and we cannot ignore it.” said Rajesh Bindal, Judge of the Supreme Court of India. “The challenge before universities is to ensure it is used responsibly, with clear policies and thoughtful governance.”

The conference featured keynote remarks, panel discussions, and the launch of the AI Governance Report 2026 from O.P. Jindal Global University, highlighting emerging global approaches to responsible AI adoption in higher education.

Interdisciplinary perspectives were explored during AI and the Humanities in Higher Education, where panelists examined how AI is influencing fields such as philosophy, law, and social sciences. The discussion featured C. Raj Kumar, Vice Chancellor, O.P. Jindal Global University, Mohan Kumar, Dean, Strategic and International Initiatives, Office of the Vice Chancellor & Director General, O.P. Jindal Global University, and Tresmaine Grimes, Dean of Pace’s Dyson College of Arts and Science. The discussion was moderated by Pace University President Marvin Krislov.

“AI is fundamentally reshaping how knowledge is created, shared, and governed,” said Kumar. “Universities must lead with a global vision, developing frameworks that balance innovation with accountability while safeguarding academic integrity and public trust.”

The impact of AI on classrooms and student engagement was the focus of AI and the Transformation of Teaching and Learning, where panelists explored how intelligent technologies are redefining curriculum design, assessment, and accessibility. The discussion featured Norman Eng, EdD, Professor of Education at Brooklyn College, Padmanabha Ramanujam, Dean of Office of Academic Governance at O.P. Jindal Global University, and Michael Wagner, professor and head of digital media department at Drexel University, and was moderated by David Sachs, professor of information systems at Pace’s Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems and co-chair of Pace University’s AI Committee.

Institutional responsibility took center stage during Governance, Ethics, and the Future of the AI-Enabled University, a panel examining data governance, regulatory considerations, and leadership accountability. The discussion featured Ashwin Fernandes, vice president at QS Quacquarelli Symonds; Ericka Watson, principal and CEO of Data Strategy Advisors, LLC; and Jim Russell, CIO and vice president for digital strategy and planning at Manhattanville University, and was moderated by Li-Chiou Chen, PhD, interim dean of Pace’s Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems.

“You can’t manage what you can’t see,” said Watson. “Institutions need clear visibility into what AI tools are being used, how they are being used, and by whom. Before you can govern AI, you need to understand your risk, what tools are in use and whether the right frameworks are in place to manage them.”

Throughout the day, speakers addressed issues including academic integrity, data governance, accessibility, and workforce transformation, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges of integrating AI into higher education. The event was also attended by Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York.

“Convenings like Intelligent Futures show the importance of bringing together diverse global perspectives to tackle complex challenges,” said President Krislov. “At Pace, we are committed to advancing AI literacy, fostering responsible innovation, and preparing our students to lead in an AI-enabled world.”

The conference also created space for networking and cross-sector dialogue, reinforcing Pace University’s role as a hub for global conversations at the intersection of technology, education, and society. As artificial intelligence continues to reshape higher education, initiatives like the new bachelor of science in artificial intelligence (AI), set to launch in fall 2026, reflect the university’s ongoing commitment to innovation, expanded academic offerings, and student success in an AI-driven world.

About Pace University

Founded in 1906 and celebrating 120 years of preparing students for success in 2026, Pace University pairs real-life learning with strong academics to launch meaningful careers. With campuses in New York City and Westchester County, Pace serves 13,600 students across a range of bachelor, master, and doctoral programs through the 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.

Sierra Vendas

Class of '27
Pronouns: She/Her
Currently Studying: BBA in Marketing, Digital Marketing, Minor in Graphic Design
Member (Clubs): Advertising Club, IDM Lab, Her Campus, Brand Marketing Team

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Why did you choose Pace University and the Lubin School of Business?

While there are several reasons I chose to continue my academic journey at Pace University, I ultimately selected Pace because of its proximity to some of the largest agencies in the marketing industry. The Lubin School of Business has provided me with countless connections and opportunities that have helped me excel both academically and professionally. I knew that, by attending Pace University, I would have professors with a vested interest in my success and a strong support system throughout my professional journey. The Lubin School of Business curriculum, combined with university-offered experiences, has allowed me to get my foot in the door and secure the job opportunities I was looking for. Ultimately, I chose Pace University for its location, network, and opportunities.

How have clubs on campus helped enrich your student experience?

Pace University’s student organizations have shaped—and continue to shape—my college experience into a memorable, community-centered journey. Being involved in a variety of clubs has not only enriched my social life and led to lifelong friendships, but also provided invaluable resources and guidance for professional development. Advertising Club personal branding workshops have taught me how to present myself professionally, the IDM Lab has given me hands-on experience working with real-world companies, and Her Campus has helped me refine my writing and editing skills, which have supported my pitch writing during my public relations internships. While Pace University may be unconventional in that it is a city school, its student organizations make the University feel even more community-focused and interconnected. Student Engagement and each individual club work to create unforgettable experiences for the student body.

What has been your favorite opportunity at Pace?

My favorite opportunity at Pace University has been the chance to participate on Pace University’s Brand Marketing Team. This prestigious team competes in the American Advertising Federation National Student Advertising Competition, creating a well-researched and thoughtfully executed campaign for a new high-profile client each year. Since my first year, it has been a goal of mine to join the team and contribute meaningful work to an influential marketing campaign. This year, the team has been developing our case for the National Football League. I have been able to contribute to research development, media planning, and other key areas of the campaign. This opportunity has pushed me to become more professional by teaching me to meet deadlines, conduct thorough research, and present ideas in a precise yet comprehensive way.

Do you have any advice for other Lubin students?

My advice to students in the Lubin School of Business would be to join every club that sparks your interest and attend on-campus events whenever possible. Joining clubs—even if you are simply curious and want to explore—can help you find your community and enrich your college experience. You never know where you might meet a new friend or gain a fresh perspective.

The Lubin School of Business has made me feel better prepared for life after college, and the people within the program continually inspire me to strive for more.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

To me, #LubinLife means using the resources within the Lubin School of Business to build a successful life and career. The Lubin School of Business has made me feel better prepared for life after college, and the people within the program continually inspire me to strive for more. I am always looking for new opportunities to expand my network and strengthen my skills, and Lubin has provided an ideal environment for that growth. My professors, peers, and advisors consistently motivate me and have helped create a strong sense of community at Pace University. In short, #LubinLife means being part of a community that encourages you to become the best version of yourself while supporting you along the way.

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