James Kennedy: Pace Psychology Graduate Fast Tracks to Doctoral Program

Dyson College of Arts and Science

From a young age, James Kennedy ’24, BA in Personality and Social Psychology, had been curious about how things work. But he soon he realized that it was human interactions, emotions, and social environments that fascinated him the most.

Pace University's Psychology Pleasantville student James Kennedy
Antonia Gentile
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Pace University's Psychology Pleasantville student James Kennedy

From a young age, James Kennedy ’24, BA in Personality and Social Psychology, had been curious about how things work. But he soon he realized that it was human interactions, emotions, and social environments that fascinated him the most.

Kennedy, who chose Pace because it offered a degree in personality and social psychology as well as the opportunity to conduct undergraduate research—typically found only at the graduate level—is now well on his way to achieving his goals. He is enrolled in a five-year social-personality doctoral program at the University at Buffalo, a feat only the best and brightest could achieve.

As an undergraduate student, he engaged in faculty-student research, which prepared him for this new chapter in his academic life. He also presented his research both outside of and within Pace and at national and international conferences.

His work with Psychology Professor Courtney Gosnell, PhD, is one example.

“Professor Gosnell has taught me how to develop and conduct research as well as empowered me to run my own research projects from idea to publication,” he said. The result was a co-publication of their findings, “Politics, Relationships, and Moral Foundations” in Transactions, 24 (Gosnell, C., & Kennedy, J.* (2023), which Kennedy presented with Gosnell at the British Council on Undergraduate Research (BCUR) and as a plenary speaker at Dyson College’s (at Pace) Society of Fellows seminar.

Professor Gosnell has taught me how to develop and conduct research as well as empowered me to run my own research projects from idea to publication.

Kennedy’s global sharing of his research would continue with another experiential opportunity, at the World Congress on Undergraduate Research (WorldCUR). There, he collaborated with international students on a study exploring the challenges of social media usage that might contribute to social disconnect in Generation Z.

Kennedy said, “These experiences have taught me how to network globally and think critically to present my research to a new and diverse audience.”

Looking ahead, Kennedy aspires to become a professor and combine his passion for research with teaching and mentorship. He also plans to stay in contact with his many mentors at Pace and the research they are engaged in with students.

“They have helped me reach the point I am at today and have shown me that they care about my growth as a student and a researcher, as well as a person. I plan to stay involved and attend future research events to better learn about the research that Pace students are conducting,” he said.

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Go Further with Pace’s New Rideshare Program

Upcoming Opportunities
Westchester

Pace’s new rideshare program is more than a transportation solution for Westchester students—it’s a step toward creating a more connected, sustainable, and dynamic student life.

Cars driving down the high way.
Pace University students Jason Gonzalez and Sussy Vizuet carpool to campus together every day.

Pace University is revolutionizing the way commuter students connect and travel with the launch of a dedicated rideshare program on the Westchester Campus. Starting at the beginning of the spring 2025 semester, undergraduate and graduate commuter students can explore an efficient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly way to get to class: carpooling with peers in their local areas through the 511NY Rideshare platform.

Why Join the Rideshare Program?

  • Connect with your community: The program not only makes your commute enjoyable but also fosters connections with fellow students, building a stronger Pace Community.
  • It will save more than just time: Save time, money, and the planet by carpooling! Sharing the ride to campus means cutting down on fuel, toll, and mileage expenses while shrinking your carbon footprint. It’s a win-win for your wallet and the environment.
  • Proven success: Other institutions like Iona College and Fordham University have seen significant benefits from the 511NY Rideshare program, and now, it’s your turn to experience the advantages.

How to Get Started

Visit the Westchester Campus Student Engagement website to learn more about the program and get connected with other carpoolers using the 511NY Rideshare platform. It’s free, easy to use, and offers a greener alternative to solo commuting.

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Nate Augustin ’27, a Writing for Diversity and Equity in Theater and Media major, shares how Pace University became the perfect platform for his voice, his transformative experiences in the program, and his hopes for creating inclusive spaces in theater and media.

Health Law and Business Law Scholar Lauren Roth to Join Haub Law as Associate Professor

Elisabeth Haub School of Law

The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University is proud to announce that Lauren Roth, an accomplished scholar in health law and business law, will join the faculty as an Associate Professor of Law beginning in Fall 2025. Professor Roth will teach courses in corporations, contracts, and health law while also contributing her expertise and leadership to Haub Law’s Health Law and Policy Certificate program.

Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Professor Lauren Roth
Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Professor Lauren Roth

The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University is proud to announce that Lauren Roth, an accomplished scholar in health law and business law, will join the faculty as an Associate Professor of Law beginning in Fall 2025. Professor Roth will teach courses in corporations, contracts, and health law while also contributing her expertise and leadership to Haub Law’s Health Law and Policy Certificate program.

Currently an Assistant Professor of Law at Touro Law Center, Professor Roth brings a wealth of academic and professional experience to Haub Law.

Professor Roth’s teaching and research interests include health law, business law, fiduciary law, and employee benefits. She is a frequently published author, and her scholarship focuses on the role of the government and employers in American health and social welfare and how to promote equal access to healthcare. She has a particular interest in the overlap between public and private programs in the delivery of healthcare in the United States. Professor Roth’s research reflects an interdisciplinary approach and utilizes a range of methodological tools, including quantitative methods.

“The Haub Law community is thrilled to welcome Professor Roth, a distinguished academic in the health law field,” said Dean Horace E. Anderson, Jr. “Her research and scholarship involving health, social welfare, and equal access to healthcare will contribute greatly to Haub Law’s interdisciplinary approach to the law. Our students, particularly those pursuing our Health Law and Policy Certificate, will benefit tremendously from her leadership and expertise in the constantly evolving field.” In addition to teaching JD courses at Haub Law, Professor Roth will help guide the school’s Health Law and Policy Certificate programs. A leader in the health law field, Haub Law offers two options for its Advanced Certificate in Health Law and Policy – one for students enrolled in the School’s JD program and a second option for attorneys and non-attorney professionals looking for a flexible option to advance their careers. Professor Roth’s leadership will serve to bolster these programs even further.

In the last few years, Professor Roth has been selected to present her research at the University of Michigan Law School’s Junior Scholars Conference and Harvard Law School’s Petrie-Flom Center Annual Conference. She was also selected as a Health Law Scholar by the Center for Health Law Studies at Saint Louis University and the American Society of Law, Medicine and Ethics (ASLME). In addition, she will be on research leave during the upcoming Spring 2025 semester because the Commonwealth Fund awarded her a grant to serve as Principal Investigator for a research project titled State Regulation of Medicare Brokers. Through this project, she will explore conflicts of interest for insurance brokers who sell supplemental Medicare plans, looking at how states can protect beneficiaries in light of the expansion of Medicare Advantage plans. In 2025, she will also serve as Secretary of the Association of American Law Schools (AALS) Section on Law, Medicine, and Health Care.

“I am excited to join the Haub Law community as an Associate Professor of Law,” shared Professor Roth. “What attracted me to Haub Law are the synergies between its excellent environmental law program and the work I do studying healthcare and public health. The importance of that work will only grow in the coming years. I look forward to building on it in my role at Haub Law.”

Prior to joining Touro Law Center as an Assistant Professor of Law in 2022, Professor Roth was Associate Director of the Lawyering Program at New York University School of Law and an Assistant Professor of Legal Writing at St. John’s University School of Law. She holds a JD from Harvard Law School, a PhD from Columbia University in Political Science, and a BA, summa cum laude, from George Washington University.

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Discovering Direction In The Details

Pace President

Pace University President Marvin Krislov writes in Forbes about discovering clarity in unexpected moments and how real-world work experiences—even those that seem mundane—can shape career paths and personal growth.

Pace University president, Marvin krislov in his office
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Get Ready for Spring 2025: Key Dates to Mark on Your Calendar

Upcoming Opportunities

As the Spring 2025 semester approaches, students and families should stay ahead of important deadlines and events. From tuition due dates and the start of classes to exciting opportunities like study abroad fairs and career fairs, this semester is full of essential moments that can shape your Pace journey.

Graduate student on the Pace University campus in Pleasantville, New York
Pace University student sitting near a window looking at her laptop with feet propped up on table
Kendra Free

As the Spring 2025 semester approaches, students and families should stay ahead of important deadlines and events. From tuition due dates and the start of classes to exciting opportunities like study abroad fairs and career fairs, this semester is full of essential moments that can shape your Pace journey. Be sure to review these key dates and take action to ensure a smooth and successful semester!

Monday, January 6

Spring 2025 Tuition and Fees Due: Tuition and fees for the Spring 2025 semester are due. Access your account information and make secure payments via the Payment Portal. Note: Students who do not make a payment by this deadline may be dropped from their classes. Learn more about billing, policies, and payment plans.

Tuesday, January 21

Spring Semester Classes Begin: Spring semester classes start. If you have not yet registered, visit the Pace Portal and register today.

Tuesday, January 21 through Monday, January 27

Student Solutions Centers: Get in-person assistance with your financial aid, student billing or course registration questions at our Pop-up Student Solutions Centers. No appointment is necessary. Hours vary. Locations: 161 William St, 8th Floor (New York City) and Administrative Building (Pleasantville).

Monday, January 27

Last Day to Add a Course Without Faculty Approval: This is the final day to add a course for Spring 2025 without faculty approval. Contact your advisor if you have questions or concerns about your course schedule.

Wednesday, January 29

New York City: Study Abroad Fair
11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
15 Beekman, Bianco Room
Explore how studying abroad can enhance your Pace experience.

Thursday, January 30

Pleasantville: Study Abroad Fair
11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Kessel Student Center, Gottesman Room
Learn more about the opportunities to study abroad as part of your Pace journey.

Monday, February 3

Last Day to Add Course with Faculty Approval for Spring 2025 Semester Classes and Deadline for Undergraduate to File Pass/Fail or the Audit Option for the Spring 2025 Semester. This is the final day to file for pass/fail/ or audit, and/or to add a course for Spring 2025 without faculty approval. Contact your advisor if you have questions or concerns about your course schedule.

Friday, February 7

Spring 2025 Job and Internship Fair: Prepare to meet with potential employers from a variety of industries and learn about jobs, internships, and career opportunities. Plan ahead for professional business-casual attire and an updated resume. The Spring 2025 Job and Internship Fair event is open to all Pace students and will be held in Pleasantville. Registration is required.

Saturday, February 15

Fall 2025 Study Abroad Exchange Semester Program Application Deadline: Students enrolled in an Exchange Partner Institution Program pay Pace tuition and fees, while room and board are paid directly to the host institution. All federal and New York State financial aid applies, along with 100% of Pace scholarships and grants. Pace tuition remission also applies. Review the Steps to Study Abroad instructions (PDF) to learn more about the application process.

Saturday, March 15

Summer 2025 and Fall 2025 Study Abroad Partner Program Application Deadline: The application deadline for Summer and Fall 2025 Study Abroad Partner Programs is approaching. Download the Steps to Study Abroad instructions (PDF) to begin the application process.

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Math Professor Lisa Fastenberg Appointed to Pace’s Board of Trustees

Dyson College of Arts and Science

Associate Professor and Chair of the Mathematics Department on the Pleasantville campus Lisa Fastenberg, PhD, has been appointed to Pace’s Board of Trustees.

Pace University Mathematics Pleasantville Professor Lisa Fastenberg
Antonia Gentile
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Pace University Mathematics Pleasantville Professor Lisa Fastenberg

Associate Professor and Chair of the Mathematics Department on the Pleasantville campus Lisa Fastenberg, PhD, has been appointed to Pace’s Board of Trustees.

Fastenberg, who has been a member of Pace faculty since 2001 and has served as chair of the Mathematics Department since 2013, will begin a three-year term, during which she will bring a wealth of academic leadership and expertise in mathematics education to the board.

Her teaching has included the full spectrum of the mathematics curriculum at Pace, ranging from developmental to advanced courses for mathematics majors, with her research focus being the rank of elliptic surfaces in characteristic zero, a topic within the field of Number Theory.

Also active in the Pace community outside of the academic sphere, Fastenberg has served in leadership roles including co-chair of the Retention Task Force, chair of the Westchester Faculty Council Admissions and Retention Committee, and three terms on the Executive Committee of the Westchester Faculty Council.

“I am honored to join the Board of Trustees and contribute to the continued growth and success of Pace University,” said Fastenberg. “Having spent more than two decades teaching and supporting our students, I look forward to bringing the faculty perspective to the Board’s work.”

Read the full press release on Fastenberg's appointment.

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Pace University Political Science professor Laura Tamman
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