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Professor Bridget Crawford has been named as the winner of the 2021 Ottinger Award for Faculty Achievement. The Richard Ottinger Faculty Achievement Award is awarded annually by the Faculty Development Committee, in consultation with the Dean, in recognition of a full-time professor’s outstanding service to the law school, the legal profession, or both. The award generally is based on the faculty member’s outstanding service during the previous academic year.

In announcing the award to Professor Crawford, Professor Margot Pollans, as chair of the Faculty Development Committee, remarked:

“Bridget Crawford is a tireless advocate for this Law School, for our students, and for the faculty. We celebrate her work as a scholar, and the many ways in which she has used her own work to advance the scholarly reputation of the Law School. We also celebrate Professor Crawford’s commitment to the creation of innovative programming that enables alumni to remain connected to and support the community, to elevate the work of our faculty scholars, and to help raise the scholarly profile of the Law School among peer institutions. Through all this work, Professor Crawford models the kind of generosity and entrepreneurialism that is at the heart of the Haub Law spirit and she has made a significant contribution to our community. Thank you, Professor Crawford!”

The Ottinger Award for Faculty Achievement is named in honor of Richard L. Ottinger, who served in the United States House of Representatives for eight terms, from 1965 to 1971 and from 1975 to 1985. Ottinger was Dean of the Law School from 1994 to 1999 and is the founder of the Pace Energy Project, now known as the Pace Energy and Climate Center. To learn more about the Richard Ottinger Faculty Achievement Award and other faculty designations see the faculty awards and designations page.

Bridget Crawford has been a member of the Pace faculty since 2003. She teaches courses in Federal Income Taxation, Wills, Trust & Estates and Corporations, among others. Professor Crawford is the author of three casebooks and over 100 law review articles. Most recently, she was named as a University Distinguished Professor, the highest honor the University can bestow on a faculty member, in recognition of extensive, extraordinary research and scholarship, outstanding teaching, and exemplary service to the University, community, and the faculty member’s professional field. In addition to the Richard Ottinger Award for Faculty Achievement, Professor Crawford has also been recognized with many other major faculty awards and designations from Haub Law, including the Barbara C. Salken Outstanding Professor of the Year Award, the Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching, the Goettel Prize for Faculty Scholarship, and she also was appointed and served as the James D. Hopkins Professor of Law from 2017–2019.

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Professor Noa Ben-Asher was awarded the 2021 Goettel Prize for Faculty Scholarship for their article, “Trauma-Centered Social Justice,” published by Tulane Law Review (95 Tul. L. Rev. 95 (2020)). The Goettel Prize was created in 2004 to encourage and recognize outstanding scholarship by members of the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University faculty. Each year, members of the tenured and tenure-track faculty are invited to submit their work for consideration (on an anonymous basis) by a selection committee of outside reviewers. This year's committee consisted of three distinguished law school professors: Associate Dean for Faculty Development and Professor of Law Michael Higdon of The University of Tennessee College of Law; Ellison Capers Palmer Sr. Endowed Chair in Tax Law Professor Linda Jellum of Mercer Law; and Professor of Law and Dean’s Distinguished Scholar Lili Levi of University of Miami School of Law.

Associate Dean for Faculty Development and Operations and Professor of Law at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University, Emily Waldman, noted, “Professor Ben-Asher's article identifies and explores a connective thread among three current social justice movements--BlackLivesMatter, #MeToo, and Climate Justice--by showing how heavily they each rely on the concept of trauma. The article provides a new lens through which to view these movements and our larger society. It's a thought-provoking, creative, and insightful piece of work."

“It is an incredible honor to be recognized by a committee of such distinguished law school professors and also among my talented colleagues at Haub Law, who continuously challenge and inspire me with their innovative research and work,” stated Professor Noa Ben-Asher.

Professor Ben-Asher joined the faculty at Haub Law in 2009, teaching torts, family law, and sexuality, gender & the law. Prior to joining the faculty at Haub Law, Professor Ben-Asher was in the Associate-in-Law program at Columbia Law School (2007-2009). Prior to their associateship, they were a Williams Fellow at the University of California–Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Law (2006), where they taught at the department of LGBT studies. From 2004-2005, they practiced in the litigation department of Proskauer Rose LLP in New York. They are a graduate of New York University School of Law (LLM 2001; JSD 2006), and Bar-Ilan University School of Law (LLB 1999). Professor Ben-Asher was a visiting professor at Harvard Law School for the academic year 2014-2015, and a visiting professor at Columbia Law School for the academic year 2015-2016. Professor Ben-Asher also received the Goettel Prize for Faculty Scholarship in both 2013 and 2017. Most recently, Professor Ben-Asher was appointed as James D. Hopkins Professor of Law at Haub Law for the 2021-2023 term.

Pace University’s Seidenberg School of CSIS has been awarded a $3.8 million grant from the National Science Foundation to recruit and train cybersecurity professionals, the University today announced.

In earning the competitive grant from the federal government – to be allocated over 5 years – Pace University will expand its existing CyberCorps® Scholarship for Service (SFS) program that trains scholars at all levels for careers in government focusing on cybersecurity, cyber defense, and related operations that are currently in great demand.

The award is also aimed at increasing diversity and historically underrepresented communities including women and minorities and preparing them for careers in cybersecurity working for the federal government.

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“There is an immense need and demand for cybersecurity experts in our country,” said Professor Li-Chiou Chen, who manages the CyberCorps® Scholarship for Service and CySP programs at Pace. “Because of our expertise, location, and track record, Pace University is uniquely positioned and equipped to deliver on this need – now and for years to come. We are grateful to the National Science Foundation for its continued partnership and support.”

The announcement comes at a time when governments are grappling with a growing number of attacks on its systems by hackers around the globe. In recent years, for example, foreign hackers were involved in a massive computer breach within U.S. government networks and private computer systems as well as other ransomware attacks on critical infrastructure such as the Colonial Pipeline.

Such attacks are happening all the time, security experts say. In fact, a 2020 FBI report shows a spike in cybercrimes in recent years, and estimates that in 2020 such crimes cost businesses an estimated $4.2 billion in losses, though that figure could be higher, according to many experts.

As a result, the U.S. government and some of America’s largest tech firms are investing hundreds of billions of dollars to boost their own cybersecurity capabilities, a trend that is only expected to grow in the future.

In particular, this grant will help pay for scholarships, workshops, competitions, conferences, and related activities as well as to foster engagement in research and training that will help students acquire the necessary technical training and analytical skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing and high pressure environment.

Along with her management team on the grant -- Professor Andreea Cotoranu, Professor Paul Benjamin, Professor Darren Hayes, Professor Joseph Ryan, and Professor John Watkins – Professor Chen expects the cybersecurity scholars supported by the grant will work with professors in research projects contributing to research innovation in the areas of open-source intelligence, data analytics, machine learning, computer forensics and robotics.

The new scholars will come from all levels of academic programs in computer science, information systems and cybersecurity at the bachelor’s, master's, and doctoral levels, and recruit from our community college partners, including the State University of New York -- Westchester Community College.

“We are grateful for all of the hard-work and dedication of Professor Li-Chiou Chen,” said Dr. Jonathan Hill, Dean of the Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems at Pace University. “As a true innovator in the field, she is helping to ensure that we effectively train and educate a new generation of cyber leaders.”

Alexa Piccolli, Pace CyberCorps alumnus who earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Pace, noted that this scholarship program in particular was an incredible experience that opened doors to the U.S. Navy (NAVAIR) and IBM.

“It led me to a career in cybersecurity and afforded me many wonderful opportunities,” said Piccolli. “I got to work with leading technology at NAVAIR and now, as a program manager for Vulnerability Management at IBM. The skies the limit. I am so thankful to Pace University for this program.”

Pace University’s program has produced cybersecurity professionals working at various level of the government. Its program uniquely consists of five cyber pathways ranging from an associate degree to a doctorate degree.

For Pace alumnus Michael Corcione ’92, a seasoned cybersecurity executive who is a partner at a leading global consultancy firm, HKA, it is imperative that government and academia continue to join forces on cybersecurity education and workforce development.

“The U.S. Government and U.S. companies are under constant attack by cyber-criminal organizations, both private and state-sponsored,” he said. “One of the biggest challenges defending against these attacks is training enough people with the right skills and experience. The CyberCorp Scholarship for Service program is an optimal platform for the U.S. Government to build our defenses against these adversaries, as it maximizes the diverse student talent and resources of universities such as Pace and elevates the standard of cybersecurity education that will bolster the safety of our economy and society.”

About Pace University

Pace University has a proud history of preparing its diverse student body for a lifetime of professional success as a result of its unique program that combines rigorous academics and real-world experiences. Pace is ranked the #1 private, four-year college in the nation for upward economic mobility by Harvard University’s Opportunity Insights, evidence of the transformative education the University provides. From its beginnings as an accounting school in 1906, Pace has grown to three campuses, enrolling 13,000 students in bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in more than 150 majors and programs, across a range of disciplines: arts, sciences, business, health care, technology, law, education, and more. The university also has one of the most competitive performing arts programs in the country. Pace has a signature, newly renovated campus in New York City, located in the heart of vibrant Lower Manhattan, next to Wall Street and City Hall, and two campuses in Westchester County, New York: a 200-acre picturesque Pleasantville Campus and the Elisabeth Haub School of Law in White Plains. Follow us on Twitter or on the Pace News website.

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

At Pace University’s Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems, students experience a best-of-breed technology education at one of the first comprehensive schools of computing in the nation. Strategically located in the heart of NYC’s tech scene, the Seidenberg School places students on the doorstep of New York’s most promising companies, whether they are established tech giants or exciting new start-ups. Through partnerships with leading corporations, banks, federal agencies, and global entities, the School's curricula and programs are designed to give students the latest in computer science theory and invaluable hands-on practice to ground it. The faculty includes numerous cybersecurity experts who operate labs and centers providing students with practical experience and connections that lead to impressive internships and jobs.

In June 2021, Pace University College of Health Professions (CHP). Lienhard School of Nursing (LSN) received a nearly $2 million federal Nursing Workforce Diversity grant, funded through the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), created to increase educational opportunities and retention rates for first generation college students from underrepresented ethnic and racial minority groups in nursing. The grant, facilitated through the Lienhard School of Nursing’s innovative STEPS to Success program, provides support, scholarships, mentoring, tutoring, wellness workshops, and resiliency training aimed at preventing burnout and promoting academic success for nursing students. The grant will fund these activities over the four years of the program.

“The grant allows us to better ensure a pipeline of diverse nurses into our local communities. The grant will also support our efforts to recruit and retain a more diverse nursing faculty."

Dr. Rhonda Maneval, Vice Dean, CHP and Lienhard School of Nursing

In late August, CHP welcomed its first cohort of ten enthusiastic HRSA Scholars to the RN4 Nursing Program with an Immersion Week of events and activities planned to acquaint the students with each other, their professors, and mentors and to have them explore the campus facilities and surrounding communities before the official start of the 2021 fall semester.

Student Joeleena Hernandez appreciated that LSN provided them a deeper first look into their next four years, which is something many students do not get to receive before starting their program. “Since we were here for the immersion week, we got to tour the lab and see what we will be doing in future years; we got to see what we have to look forward to.”

Fellow student, Keyla Gudiel echoed Joeleena’s comments, saying that she appreciated learning about nursing terminology, exploring all the resources the program offers, and meeting with the designated mentors who will support them throughout the program.

Reflecting on why they choose Pace University, one of the main reasons was the opportunity to become immersed in clinical work and lab simulations during their sophomore year.

Jackie Maldonado and Alessandra Gutierrez acknowledged LSN’s high NCLEX scores and student support. “Pace offers students a lot of opportunities, and it’s always good to know that if you ever need help, there’s always somewhere to get it,” said Jackie.

Gabriela Casimiro choose the LSN because of the supportive environment among students, faculty, and staff and is excited to benefit from the cohort experience. Commenting on LSN’s direct admit nursing program policy, she said, “I like that you don’t have to compete for your spot and once you’re accepted, you’re in for all four years. “Because of this, the environment is less competitive, and students can help each other out.”

Associate Professor of undergraduate nursing Millie Hepburn, PhD, MS, describes the cohort as highly motivated and enthusiastic. “The group bonded really well early on with both resident and commuter students spending time together on campus, having meals together and taking advantage of activities. There is a lot of good energy there!”

Rhonda Maneval, D.Ed., RN, Vice Dean, Pace University College of Health Professions and Lienhard School of Nursing, author and project director of the grant, noted that receiving this grant is an amazing opportunity for the Lienhard School of Nursing to continue to grow its legacy and commitment to increase racial and ethnic diversity in nursing students and practicing nurses. “The grant allows us to better ensure a pipeline of diverse nurses into our local communities. The grant will also support our efforts to recruit and retain a more diverse nursing faculty. We were thrilled to receive this funding to implementing this important program.”

Dean Marcus Tye extends congratulations to the Class of 2025 HRSA Scholars: Emily Williams, Joeleena Hernandez, Jahaira Pereira, Jaquelyne Maldonado, Sofia Garcia, Evelyn Cabrera, Alessandra Gutierrez, Brithney Tuba, Keyla Gudiel and Gabriela Casimiro.

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Pace University's Elisabeth Haub School of Law today announced the establishment of the Beth S. Nelson Memorial Scholarship sponsored by Dorf & Nelson LLP, a private practice law firm.

“We are honored by the generosity of Dorf & Nelson LLP in providing this scholarship,” said Horace E. Anderson, Jr., Dean of the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University. “Beth Nelson decided to attend law school later in her life, and we are proud to call her an alumna of our law school. This scholarship will lend immediate support to a student in need of financial assistance to pursue their legal education.”

Dorf & Nelson LLP is establishing this scholarship in memory of Beth S. Nelson, partner Jonathan B. Nelson’s mother, to honor her contributions to the Westchester County Bar and her pioneering spirit in embarking in a new legal profession later in life. After graduating, Beth had a successful career in law as a real estate attorney first as an associate at Hall Dickler, then as counsel to Chicago Title, then as General Counsel to Statewide Abstract, and went on to start her own practice, the Law Offices of Beth S. Nelson in Pleasantville, until she retired.

“My mom has been an inspiration to me in so many ways. This scholarship celebrates her inspiration to all law students who follow their dreams, buck the odds and achieve their goals. She is dearly missed, but her example of perseverance lives on,” said Jonathan Nelson.

“We sponsored this scholarship with a preference that it go to a woman not only to honor Beth Nelson but to help a student in need who has chosen law as a second career who may not otherwise be able to afford tuition. Diversity is one of the key cores of Dorf & Nelson’s strength and promoting diversity and women in the legal sector is an example of how the firm can help achieve that,” said managing partner, Jon A. Dorf.

The Beth S. Nelson Memorial Scholarship is a current use scholarship that will be awarded to a student who demonstrates financial need, with a preference for a woman who is pursuing a law school education later in life. A recipient will be selected by the Law School.

About Dorf & Nelson LLP

The entity now known as Dorf & Nelson LLP was founded in 1997. Dorf & Nelson LLP is a private practice law firm headquartered at the International Corporate Center in Rye, New York, with offices in Manhattan, Garden City, New York and Los Angeles, California. Dorf & Nelson serves a wide range of corporations, entrepreneurs, growing businesses and successful companies as both legal counsel and trusted advisors in the practice areas of litigation, commercial and real property finance, corporate law, commercial real estate and land use, employment and labor law, intellectual property, life sciences, medical malpractice defense and not-for-profit. See the Dorf Law website for more information.

The events of 9/11 have had a profound effect on a generation of people around the world, but our University, located mere blocks away from the World Trade Center, felt the impact first-hand. Twenty years ago, the Pace Community lost 47 members—students and alumni alike—and was closed for several weeks as we worked toward recovery.

Events

Join the Pace Community in observance of the 20th anniversary of the tragic events of September 11 as we commemorate the lives lost and honor the bravery and resilience of our community.

New York City Campus
Thursday, September 9, at 5:00 p.m.
One Pace Plaza Lobby, 1st Floor West
Hosted by Veterans Services and Public Affairs

Westchester Campus
Saturday, September 11, at 8:00 p.m.
Kessel Student Center Lobby
Hosted by Alpha Phi Delta

Remember

As part of the 20th anniversary of that tragic day, we want to hear from our community. Whether you were a student at the time, a recent graduate, a faculty or staff member, we want to hear from you. For our current students and recent alumni, we want to hear your experiences, too! Perhaps you had a parent or family member working downtown or perhaps you just remember watching it on the news; your experience of an event that shaped a generation is just as valid. Please consider sharing your memories and experiences with us as part of story collection for the upcoming Fall 2021 issue of Pace Magazine. Use our submission form.

Read and Listen

Explore the Pace University 9/11 Oral History Project curated by Professor Maria Iacullo-Bird, PhD, and archivist Ellen Sowcheck. Read the student newspapers from the days following September 11, listen to the interviews conducted by Pace students, and learn more about our on-campus memorials.

Watch

On the 10th anniversary of September 11, members of the Pace Community reflected on their experiences and what it meant to be a Pace Setter during that time.