There were game nights, movie nights, and stuff-a-plush nights—but nothing that asked students to slow down and really talk. Tyler McShane ’26, a Psychology BA/Mental Health Counseling MS student on the Pleasantville Campus, wanted to change that, but he wasn’t interested in simply adding another event to the calendar. He wanted to create something specifically for couples: a space that felt deeper, more intentional, and rooted in real connection.

As vice president of the Psychology Club, he understood how powerful that kind of space could be. And with the support of the club, he brought that idea to life in Hearts & Minds Date Night, a relationship-focused event that invited couples—romantic and platonic alike—to connect more meaningfully.

"...the idea of an event focused on relationship wellness and couples’ growth was meaningful to me.” —Tyler

“Before becoming vice president of the Psychology Club, I had long believed that the organization should host an event centered on relationships,” Tyler explains. “My boyfriend and I have been together for nearly five years, so the idea of an event focused on relationship wellness and couples’ growth was meaningful to me.”

As he rose through the ranks of the club, Tyler found the opportunity to make it happen. And Hearts & Minds Date Night wasn’t just a themed night out—it was intentionally designed to feel different from other events on campus. “None of the other events I saw were specifically tailored to couples,” he explains. “I think one of the reasons this event was so successful has to with how novel the idea was.”

The Psychology Club also brought in the kind of insight that only Pace could provide. “At the Pleasantville campus we have a professor who also practices as a sex and relationships therapist,” says Tyler. “So I thought it would be fitting to have her come and do a talk on communication in relationships, romantic and platonic alike.”

"I think one of the reasons this event was so successful has to with how novel the idea was." —Tyler

That professor was Christine Romano, PhD, assistant professor in the Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, who guided attendees through a hands-on communication activity. Each pair received two pieces of paper, one with an abstract image and one blank. One partner described the image while the other attempted to recreate it without seeing it. The exercise wasn’t about the picture itself, instead it focused on exploring communication with your partner.

“This event focused on creating a safe, open, and judgment-free space to explore communication, emotions, and sexuality in an intentional and empowering way,” explains Romano. “My goal was to blend psychology, real-life examples, and an interactive activity—such as the drawing communication exercise—to educate the audience on improving interpersonal dynamics and day-to-day interactions with the people they care about.”

More than 50 students and their partners attended, including many off-campus guests. Tyler noted that it offered something rare: a space to bring significant others into students’ campus experience. “It also gave students an opportunity to bring their off campus significant others on campus for the first time, which I noticed was quite common,” he says. “So this event also served as a means for those students to share a bit of their little world with their partner.”

"This event focused on creating a safe, open, and judgment-free space to explore communication, emotions, and sexuality in an intentional and empowering way." —Romano

The atmosphere reflected the event’s intention. Thoughtful decorations, soft lighting, and a warm tone helped set the stage for connection. Even students outside the event took notice. “Another student passing by, Nelson Lovell, saw the decorations and asked what was going on. We told him what the event was, he loved it so much he offered to take the photos for free,” says Tyler. “Just a stunning example of how awesome the Pace Community is.”

With a professional photographer stepping in, Tyler was able to enjoy the evening as a participant rather than through a camera lens. And there was plenty to capture. Along with the communication activity and relationship talk, guests were treated to Italian catering, decorated photo backdrops, and gift bags to take home.

If photos weren’t proof enough of the event’s success, attendees had plenty to say about their experience.

“This event was my first introduction to Pace University,” said Alex, a guest who attended with his partner, Vanessa. “I thoroughly enjoyed it—it exceeded my expectations. The food, the activities, the photographers—everything was amazing. It actually made me a little jealous of their events.”

Annalia, who attended with her boyfriend Cole, agreed. “Professor Romano's communication activity was fun and engaging. The food was great, and the photographer captured some really special moments of us. I’m definitely looking forward to the next event.”

"I think that level of intimacy and bonding our event explored was something new and exciting that people wanted to try out." —Tyler

With more than 50 attendees and overwhelmingly positive feedback, Tyler knew they had struck a chord. “I think that level of intimacy and bonding our event explored was something new and exciting that people wanted to try out. It’s an opportunity for openness that is not typically presented at other events,” he says.

Now, the Psychology Club is building on that success with a second event—timed perfectly for Valentine’s Day.

Hearts, Minds & Valentines will take place February 10, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. in the Kessel Gottesman Room. “This time we’re going all out,” promises Tyler. “Fairy lights on the ceiling, floating hearts, cupids, rose petals, and the balloon arches are making a return!” Though on the Pleasantville Campus, Tyler assures all students are welcome as long as they RSVP.

"Expect a guided, interactive experience designed to deepen emotional connection..." —Romano

And Romano will return with even more guidance for couples. “Expect a guided, interactive experience designed to deepen emotional connection—through love map questions, love languages, and intentional communication that helps partners feel seen, understood, and valued,” she says.

What began as one student’s idea turned into an event that clearly resonated, with plenty of momentum for what’s next. According to Tyler, “Clearly there is a want for more. And we aim to deliver.”

Make sure to RSVP for Hearts, Minds & Valentines to join in on the fun.

My name is Rafad Shlla (Raf Sabawi), and I am a fourth-year student double majoring in International Business Management and Entrepreneurship at Pace University’s Lubin School of Business in New York City.

I immigrated to the United States from Iraq at the age of eight. I arrived without knowing English and was placed in English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, where I learned to navigate both a new language and a new culture. With strict, protective parents and the limitations of my asylum status, independence often felt out of reach. However, my parents instilled in me the drive to excel and education quickly became my pathway forward.

Pace has given me the freedom to grow, to lead, and to explore opportunities that once felt unattainable.

Through discipline and resilience, I became a top student throughout high school and receiving a full-ride scholarship to Pace marked a turning point in my life. Pace has provided me with more than an education. Pace has given me the freedom to grow, to lead, and to explore opportunities that once felt unattainable.

At Lubin, I have studied in the heart of one of the world’s most competitive business hubs. Through the Pace Education Abroad Program, I also had the chance to leave the United States for the first time to study at City, University of London. That experience was both academically enriching and personally transformative.

A quote from Joseph Lubin, displayed on a wall at Pace, continues to guide me: “It was financial freedom from poverty. And I felt that education was definitely a necessity as a stepping-stone in that direction. And I never stopped learning, going to school. Never.”

Looking back, Pace has changed the trajectory of my life.

Those words remind me that education is about more than degrees. It is about creating freedom, growth, and meaningful impact. Inspired by that belief and the energy of New York City, I founded Elora App in June 2024, a tech startup designed to empower overlooked professionals in the beauty industry with a platform to thrive. My vision is to scale Elora into a global company while continuing my academic journey with an MBA.

Looking back, Pace has changed the trajectory of my life: from ESL student to scholar, from limited independence to global experiences, from dreaming of opportunity to building a company. Most importantly, Pace has given me resilience, courage, and the confidence to transform challenges into opportunities.

As we begin a new semester, it’s energizing to be back on campus and to feel the momentum building across the University.

This term marks several important moments for the Pace Community—from welcoming our new provost, who officially joined us this semester, to preparing for the State of the University Address and Commencement, both milestones that invite us to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re headed. After a move-in weekend shaped by challenging winter weather, I thank our students, families, faculty, and staff for their patience, flexibility, and shared commitment to caring for one another.

Over the winter break, I had the opportunity to meet with Pace study abroad students and faculty in Paris, a powerful reminder of how global experiences broaden perspective and deepen learning. I also represented Pace at the World Economic Forum in Davos, participating in international conversations focused on sustainability, higher education, and shared responsibility, and elevating the work our faculty are doing to advance practical solutions to complex global challenges. In this issue, you can read more about how Pace is contributing to progress on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and engaging in meaningful work beyond our campuses.

This month’s Pace Now reflects the creativity, curiosity, and engagement that define our community. You’ll find coverage of our upcoming State of the University Address, a Valentine’s-season story that turns relationship science into a real-life learning experience for students, and features that spotlight faculty leadership, alumni achievement, and opportunities to connect through events across campus. I hope you’ll explore the issue and join us as we move confidently into the semester ahead.

Warmly,

Marvin Krislov
President

How an international student found confidence, community, and career readiness in one of New York City’s most well-connected public administration programs.

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When Areeba Hashmi ’26 arrived in New York City from Lucknow, India, she carried with her not just two suitcases and a newly approved student visa, but also a sense of uncertainty. Yet within days of beginning the Master of Public Administration program at Pace University, Hashmi felt that she had found a place where she belonged.

For Hashmi, the MPA program has been more than an academic path; it has been a catalyst for growth, confidence, and meaningful impact. Now in her third semester, Hashmi has already presented research at national conferences, built close relationships with faculty mentors, become part of a diverse and supportive student community, and secured a coveted role as an analyst at the New York City Mayor’s Office of Management and Budget.

A Program That Opened Doors—Literally Across the Street

One of the first things that drew Hashmi to Pace was its location, with City Hall and the Mayor’s Office a ten-minute walk from campus. “I remember telling a classmate during my first semester, ‘I want to work there someday.’ I had no idea I would be inside that building not too long after.”

The proximity to key civic institutions is only one part of the program’s appeal. Hashmi describes the MPA as “flexible, practical, and designed for students who want to make an impact quickly.” With options to take intersession and summer courses, she was able to stay on track towards graduation even after navigating challenges back home.

Her chosen concentration—government management—is the program’s most popular track, and for good reason. “Every course connects directly to what’s happening in the real world,” she said. “Policy studies, program planning and evaluation, applied data analysis—everything I learned in the classroom helped me excel in my role at the Mayor’s Office of Management and Budget."

Faculty Mentorship That Changes Lives

If there’s one theme Hashmi returns to again and again, it’s the strength of Pace’s faculty.

Professor Sheying Chen, PhD, was one of them. “He saw potential even when I didn’t,” she said. After reading one of her research papers, on the role of social media in facilitating intergovernmental relations, he persuaded her to present it at the Pace-hosted Northeast Conference on Public Administration—just two months after she arrived in the US. His confidence in her abilities opened doors she hadn’t imagined so early in her program.

Other professors, such as Hillary Knepper, PhD, and Ric Kolenda, PhD, have been equally influential. They guided her research, helped her navigate complex federal datasets, and even encouraged her to think beyond the MPA toward a future PhD.

“They fuel me,” she said. “Sometimes you know your own potential, but you still need someone to guide you. Pace professors really do that.”

Experiential Learning at Its Best

As is often the case with experiential learning opportunities at Pace, Hashmi’s academic work quickly translated into professional opportunity.

After presenting at national conferences—including the prestigious Northeastern Conference on Public Administration noted previously—she secured a competitive summer internship at the Mayor’s Office of Management and Budget that turned into an ongoing part-time role as an analyst.

Her responsibilities are significant: analyzing federal and state funding for New York City’s Department of Transportation, evaluating federal grants, and contributing to fiscal planning during a pivotal time of political change.

“It’s exciting and overwhelming in the best way,” she said. “And everything I do at work connects back to what I learn in the classroom.”

A Supportive Community for International Students

Moving to the US alone was not easy. Hashmi faced health challenges before her departure from India and had to rebuild her life from scratch—opening bank accounts, adjusting to a new culture, and navigating New York City’s complexities.

But she found warmth where she expected distance.

“The students here are so welcoming,” she said. “And I have classmates from all over the world. I never felt judged—only supported.” She credits this environment with giving her the confidence to speak up in class, share her experiences, and grow academically and personally.

A Pioneer Looks Ahead

Hashmi is already planning the next steps in her journey.

When she completes her MPA in 2026, she hopes to continue working in city government for another year before pursuing a PhD, with the ultimate goal of working in the United Nations or a global public service institution. “I want to make a difference,” she said.

Before graduation, however, Hashmi has some important work to do, and it’s also a milestone for Pace.

Hashmi is the first student from Pace University to be selected as a 2026 Founders’ Fellow by the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA), and her research will be presented as part of a student research roundtable at ASPA. Titled “Integrating High-Skilled International Students into the US Workforce,” it examines the challenges international students face in transitioning from academic programs into professional and public service roles, and how policy and institutional support can better facilitate this pathway.

“Pace gave me everything I needed—supportive professors, real opportunities, a diverse community, and a location that connects you directly to government. If you want to build a career that actually matters, this is the place,” she said.

“I came to New York for my education, and Pace has made every challenge worth it.”

The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University’s Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Team earned a Top 4 Semifinalist finish at the 19th annual Tulane International Baseball Arbitration Competition, held January 15–16 at Tulane University Law School.

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Representing Pace Haub Law were student advocates Madeline Law (3L), Stephen Smith (3L), and Jon Riina (2L), who competed against law schools from across the country in the highly specialized competition. This unique national competition simulates Major League Baseball salary arbitration, challenging students to apply advocacy skills in a real-world sports law context. Over two days, teams presented arguments before panels of judges drawn from across the professional baseball industry, including player representatives and front office executives. Tulane’s Sports Law Society also hosted a panel of experts discussing legal issues related to baseball, which participants were invited to attend.

“The Tulane Competition provides us with a hands-on experience where we are able to utilize our advocacy skills in a professional sports context,” said student advocate Madeline Law (3L), who is also the ADR Director for the Law School’s Advocacy Program. “Our school has a strong history with this competition, and I was fortunate enough to be part of the team that finished as quarter-finalists last year.”

The team was coached by Dan Masi ’14, a Pace Haub Law alumnus, whose mentorship has been instrumental in the team’s continued success and growth. Under his guidance, the ADR team has performed extremely well. “Coach Masi not only helps us prepare for the competition but ensures that we have a clear understanding of strategy and negotiation,” shared Madeline. While Dan was a student, he was part of the Pace Haub Law team that won the national competition at Tulane out of 40 schools in 2013.

“This latest semifinalist finish underscores Pace Haub Law’s commitment to experiential learning and highlights the strength of our ADR and advocacy programs as well as the dedication and talent of our students,” said Director of Advocacy Programs and Professor of Trial Practice Louis Fasulo. “The success of this team and our other ADR competition success is greatly due to the commitment and the skill of student advocate Maddie Law. She continues to be instrumental in the Law School, gaining national prominence in the ADR competition community.

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The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University is proud to announce that Samuel Carvalho has been selected to serve as the new Pace Energy and Climate Center Graduate Fellow. This position is reserved for outstanding Pace Haub Law students who demonstrate exceptional academic and research skills, as well as a strong commitment to climate change and energy law.

Samuel is a Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) student at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law and a Brazilian attorney who recently passed the NY Bar Exam. He earned his LLM in Environmental Law, with a specialization in Energy and Climate Change Law, from Pace Haub Law, where he was awarded the 2025 Dean’s Award, the Law School’s highest honor for academic excellence, service, and leadership. Over the past year, Samuel has worked with the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance on sustainability standards and climate policy, and as a research assistant with the Global Center for Environmental Legal Studies. In addition, Samuel serves as the Written Content Vice Chair for both the American Bar Association’s Section of Environment, Energy, and Resources (ABA SEER) Climate Change Committee and ESG & Sustainability Committee.

As part of his scholarly work in energy and climate change law, Samuel has authored several articles and book chapters, with a particular focus on the advancement of international climate goals through market-based mechanisms, the promotion of renewable energy through tax incentives and private-sector investment, and community benefit-sharing in climate and renewable energy infrastructure projects.

“I am very excited to welcome Sam to the Pace Energy and Climate Center.” said Michael Hamersky, Pace Energy and Climate Center Executive Director. “His leadership, experience in international climate conferences, and commitment to energy and climate policy will be an incredible addition to our team.”

“It is truly an honor to accept this position at the Pace Energy and Climate Center,” Samuel shared. “I look forward to working with one of the leading research institutions in the field and contributing to the development of solutions to the energy and climate challenges we face today.”

In his role as a Fellow, Samuel will work closely on PECC’s energy and climate initiatives, including major projects with New York State agencies and municipalities, while also collaborating with international scholars and researchers to develop policy recommendations related to promoting renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.