Ready for the Future: The Class of 2025 Boldly Goes Forth

Dyson College of Arts and Science

As the Class of 2025 crossed the stage on May 19 and May 20, graduating students shared their plans for the future and reflected on their most memorable moments from their time at Pace—from meaningful mentorship from professors to career-altering courses to unforgettable extracurricular experiences.

Collage of five Pace University Dyson class of 2025 graduates
Antonia Gentile

As the Class of 2025 crossed the stage on May 19 and May 20 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, graduating students shared their plans for the future and reflected on their most memorable moments from their time at Pace—from meaningful mentorship from professors to career-altering courses to unforgettable extracurricular experiences.

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Pace University Chemistry and Physical Sciences student Morgan Amos

Morgan Amos

Biochemistry, BS
Pursing a PhD at Rutgers University

What research and internship opportunities did you have as a student?

I worked with Assistant Professor Karen Caldwell, PhD, on a research project on methamphetamine contamination within homes, which was funded by Pace’s Center for Undergraduate Research Experiences (CURE). Professor Caldwell has been a great mentor, giving me the confidence to pursue a future in research and supporting me throughout the graduate school application process. During the summers of 2023 and 2024, I interned at the National Institutes of Health’s National Institute on Aging, in Baltimore, Maryland, conducting computational biomedical research on two different studies involving aging and aging-related diseases.

How has being a student-athlete been meaningful to you?

The experience of playing defensive specialist on the women’s volleyball team was extremely rewarding. I have met some of my best friends on the team and have matured so much as a young adult. Adapting to my academic and athletic schedules was hard at times but has also taught me some of the best lessons. I also had the privilege to be the co-captain my last year, alongside fellow senior Abby Robertson. It was an honor and I had a great time in that role.

What are your post-graduation plans?

I am pursuing my doctoral degree at Rutgers University in their biomedical engineering program and with a concentration in binging and bioinstrumentation. I want to continue to be involved with biomedical research, specifically within engineering and neuroscience, and my career goals are to be a biomedical engineer for surgical innovation.

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Pace University Biology student Kevin Huang with poster presentation

Kevin Huang

Childhood Education/Biology, BS
Pursuing a PhD at Penn State

Why did you pursue your major/degree program?

I chose an education major because I enjoyed working with children in summer camps in Shanghai, China, where I am from. Biology was also one of my favorite subjects in high school, and when I realized my passion for research in my junior year at Pace, I continued with my education major in the School of Education and enrolled in as many biology and chemistry courses in Dyson College of Arts and Sciences as possible. Pace came up on my radar because one of my best friends had been admitted, and, since it offered an education major (my primary interest at the time), I applied and decided to enroll.

Which faculty member(s) had the most impact on your experience?

In my sophomore year, Professor Eric Brenner, PhD, introduced me to research, and, with funding from Pace’s Provost Office, I presented my work on plant movement in his lab at the National Conference of Undergraduate Research in Long Beach, California. In my junior year, Professor Jeanmaire Molina, PhD, funded me, through her National Science Foundation grant, to attend the world’s largest plant biology conference, the American Society of Plant Biologists, in Hawaii, where I shared our research on the endangered Rafflesia plant. Additionally, I have co-authored two papers with her; one published in Current Plant Biology, and another in EvoS Journal: Evolutionary Studies and Higher Education. At a conference at the WPUNJ Symposium at William Paterson University, funded by the Biology department, I presented posters for my research with both Professors Brenner and Molina, and each won second place in their respective categories.

What are your post-graduation plans?

I will be joining Penn State’s Plant Biology PhD Program to continue pursuing my passion in plant biology research.

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Pace University Media, Communications, and Visual Arts student Jaden Kealy

Jaden Kealey

Communications, BA
Pursuing an MBA at Pace University

What were your favorite course(s) and why?

My favorite course was Basic American Sign Language (ASL) with Professor Emmanuel Azodeh. Through it, I learned about the significant history of Deaf culture and was embraced by the Deaf community through my professor and other students. We were not only a class, but a growing testament to culture and the importance of acceptance and understanding of all types of people. ASL was not taught as a true disability, but rather a growing area of knowledge that is becoming more valuable and modernized into today’s world.

Which faculty member(s) had the most impact on your academic experience?

One of my most impactful professors was Samuel Ravech, Sports Journalism and Sports Broadcasting. An active ESPN broadcaster and PlayxPlay analyst, he provided insight into the sports and entertainment industry and helped encourage my career pursuits by providing both meaningful criticism and praise for my work in class. It taught me to be confident in my voice and even inspired me to be the public address announcer of athletic games on campus.

What are your post-graduation plans?

In fall 2025, I will be returning to Pace to pursue a general MBA in the Lubin School of Business. I was able to complete my undergraduate degree in just three years with transfer credits, and with this graduate opportunity, I will be returning for my fourth and final year of eligibility while a part of the Pace men’s basketball team. Being a student-athlete at Pace has been wonderful and I look forward to pursuing endeavors that come with furthering my education next year.

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Pace University Economics student Victoriia Yevtushenko

Viktoriia Yevtushenko

Business Economics, BS
Pursuing a master’s degree at Columbia University

Why did you pursue your major/degree program?

I began my studies at Pace as a marketing major but quickly realized that what I enjoyed most were the courses involving data, statistics, and analysis. I started exploring the Economics Department and was impressed by how much it had to offer: strong academics, supportive professors, and opportunities to learn outside of the classroom. Switching to economics ended up being the best decision I made, helping me grow in ways I didn’t expect.

Which faculty member had the most impact on your experience?

Professor Anna Shostya, PhD, made the biggest impact on my experience at Pace. She genuinely cares about her students, not just academically, but personally, and thanks to her support, I was able to complete a UN Millennium Fellowship that was very personal to me. My project, The War Through Children’s Eyes, focused on raising awareness on how the war in Ukraine has affected children, especially their education and emotional well-being. We gave these children a chance to express their experiences through artwork, accompanied by short stories about their lives. We then organized an exhibit on the New York City campus to showcase their work and share their voices with the Pace community.

What are your post-graduation plans?

After graduation, I’ll be attending Columbia University to pursue a master’s degree in quantitative methods in the social sciences, with a concentration in economics. I’m incredibly excited for this next chapter, and I know I wouldn’t be here without the education and support I received at Pace. The Economics department gave me a strong foundation, encouraged my curiosity, and gave me the tools to take my interests further.

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Pace University Psychology student Kaitlyn Weinerman

Kaitlyn Weinerman

BA in Psychology
Pursuing a master’s degree at Columbia University

Why did you pursue your major/degree program?

I pursued a major in Psychology because I want to make a positive impact on my community, and service those who truly need it. It has always been and will always be my passion.

What were your favorite course(s) and why?

My favorite courses have been Sexuality, Reproduction and the Family, Psychology of Civic Engagement, and Group Relations and Interview Techniques. These courses helped me fully realize my passion for service and psychology, and how we relate to the world around us. Taught by amazing professors, these courses helped me grow and shaped my view of the world.

What are your post-graduation plans?

I will be attending Columbia University for a Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW). I will be continuing my research on risky sexual behavior in college students, and I plan on working in hospitals, agencies, schools, and shelters throughout my career in social work.

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Two extraordinary Setters will be honored with Pace’s prestigious 2025 Trustee Award at this year’s Commencement ceremony. Meet Layne Davis and Brianna Shea, and discover how they’re already making their mark.

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Each year, the Community Service Award shines a light on students who turn vision into action and passion into impact. This year, we are proud to honor Jasmine Cintron-Soto ’25 and Jamie-Lynn Figueroa ’25 for their tireless advocacy and their commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive community.

Pace University Joins National Undergraduate-to-PhD Computer Science Research Program

Seidenberg School of CSIS

Pace University’s Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems has joined the Undergraduate Research to PhD (UR2PhD) mentorship program, a nationwide initiative from the Computer Research Association’s (CRA) aimed at providing students with support to develop into strong researchers.

Seidenberg professor Joe Acampora works with students in the Design Factory space.
Pace Seidenberg professor Joe Acampora working with a group of students who are sitting around a table in Seidenberg's Design Factory space.
Katie Todd

Pace University’s Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems has joined the Undergraduate Research to PhD (UR2PhD) mentorship program, a nationwide initiative from the Computer Research Association’s (CRA) aimed at providing students with support to develop into strong researchers.

The program connects undergraduate students to high-quality research opportunities, pairing them with graduate mentors and faculty to support their development of key computer science research skills. Additionally, the program connects undergraduate students with the experiential learning and research opportunities that can lead to graduate study.

At Pace, UR2PhD will be embedded within the Seidenberg Summer Undergraduate Research (SSUR) program—an annual, hands-on research experience for undergraduate students. This summer’s cohort includes 15 undergraduate students, six graduate student mentors, and eight faculty advisors.

“This is the first year that graduate students will be involved in SSUR,” said Christelle Scharff, PhD, professor of computer science, who has led SSUR for four years and applied for Pace to join UR2PhD. “The program is important for our students and for experiential learning at Pace.”

During the program, undergraduate students will take a research skills course designed to reinforce their understanding of the research process, enhance written and oral communication, promote teamwork and collaboration, and foster a computer science research identity within the broader research community. They will also learn to consider the social, ethical, and cultural impacts of their computer science research projects.

Pace faculty participating in the program include professors Krishna Bathula, Matt Ganis, Carmine Guida, Christelle Scharff, Tom Schmidt, Juan Shan, and Jonathan William. For this summer, the research projects will focus on areas including machine learning, cybersecurity, drones, game development, virtual reality, and human centered design.

Students will receive a stipend to support their participation from the CRA, as well as opportunities to receive funding to present their projects at conferences.

“Undergraduate research is a cornerstone of building a strong academic community,” said Li-Chiou Chen, PhD, dean of the Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems. “Through this program, our students will have opportunities to develop their research skills and make meaningful contributions to the field, which is more important than ever.”

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Press Release: Pace University Art Gallery Presents Anthology from the Lise Curry Collection

Dyson College of Arts and Science

Pace University Art Gallery is pleased to present Anthology: Contemporary Narrative Art from the Lise Curry Collection, a faculty/student-curated exhibition celebrating the generous bequest of more than 200 works of art from collector Lise Curry. The exhibition opens with a free public reception on Friday, June 6, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and will remain on view through September 13, 2025.

Laura James, Mother and Daughter, 2006. Painting/Acrylic on canvas, 12 x 14 in. (framed: 15 x 17 in.)

Faculty/student-curated exhibit features more than 30 artists and four narrative themes exploring joy, integrity, and curiosity.

Pace University Art Gallery is pleased to present Anthology: Contemporary Narrative Art from the Lise Curry Collection, a faculty/student-curated exhibition celebrating the generous bequest of more than 200 works of art from collector Lise Curry. The exhibition opens with a free public reception on Friday, June 6, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and will remain on view through September 13, 2025.

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Laura James, Mother and Daughter, 2006. Painting/Acrylic on canvas, 12 x 14 in. (framed: 15 x 17 in.)
Laura James, Mother and Daughter, 2006. Painting/Acrylic on canvas, 12 x 14 in. (framed: 15 x 17 in.)

Created in alignment with Curry’s vision for an academic collection that fosters education and engagement, the exhibition was curated by Pace students Ellis Clay ’25 and Vesper Vargas ’28 under the guidance of gallery director Sarah Cunningham.

“Curating this exhibit has been the highlight of my freshman year,” Vargas said. “As an art major, I gained valuable insight into how exhibitions are created from start to finish.”

With its broad thematic range, the Curry Collection inspired the curatorial team to shape the exhibition around four narrative-driven sections: Strong Women, Relational Pairs, City of Jazz, and Natural Abstraction— viewed as chapters in a larger narrative about living with joy, integrity, and curiosity. The Anthology exhibit features work by more than 30 contemporary artists working in painting, drawing, and photography. As part of the exhibit, the gallery has also commissioned a new site-specific textile installation by artist Rosa Chang, who expands on her existing piece in the collection using traditional Korean indigo and natural dye techniques.

“I am so grateful to Ms. Curry for her remarkable gift, which is already transforming the way we teach and learn here at Pace,” Cunningham said.

Featured artists include Elana Adler, Daphne Arthur, Maya Brodsky, Bri Cirel, Beatrice Coron, Antide de Champagne, Francks Deceus, Rose Deler, Lola Flash, Joseph Franklin, Takao Fujioka, Takao Fujioka, Jocelyne Gaudreau, Nathalie Grenier, Cynthia Hartling, Zach Horn, Laura James, Philippe Lechien, Peter Leitch, Christine Mace, Megan Marlatt, Carolina Martinez, Felicita Maynard, Hibiki Miyazaki, Rebecca Morgan, Rachelle Mozman, Rowan Renee, Sigita Rucinskaite-Praneviciene, Sir Shadow, Joshie South, Natsuki Takauji, Mark Tanabe, Willie Torbert, and Rasa Vaisvilaite.

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Daphne Arthur, Rapuncelle #5, 2010. Mixed media collage/Paper, 14 x 10 in. (framed: 17 x 13 in., shadow box)
Daphne Arthur, Rapuncelle #5, 2010. Mixed media collage/Paper, 14 x 10 in. (framed: 17 x 13 in., shadow box)

The Anthology exhibit, which remains on view through Saturday, September 13, 2025, is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. Additional funding was received from the Center for Undergraduate Research Experiences (CURE) at Pace University.

All the gallery’s exhibits and events are free and open to the public. Summer gallery hours are Wednesday through Saturday 1:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. Please check the gallery Instagram for the University holiday closures. The gallery is in Lower Manhattan at 41 Park Row.

About the Pace University Art Gallery

Founded with the conviction that art is integral to society, the Pace University Art Gallery is a creative laboratory and exhibition space that supports innovation and exploration for both artists and viewers. Open to students, staff, and faculty from across the Pace campuses and, equally, to the Lower Manhattan community and visitors from around the world, the Art Gallery encourages personal investigation and critical dialogue via thought-provoking contemporary art exhibits and public programming. Enhancing the Art Department's Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Fine Arts programs, the Art Gallery offers students real-world opportunities to exhibit their own art and to work directly with professional artists to install and promote exhibitions. All exhibits and events are free and open to the public.

About Dyson College of Arts and Sciences

Pace University’s liberal arts college, Dyson College, offers more than 50 programs, spanning the arts and humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and pre-professional programs (including pre-medicine, pre-veterinary, and pre-law), as well as many courses that fulfill core curriculum requirements. The College offers access to numerous opportunities for internships, cooperative education and other hands-on learning experiences that complement in-class learning in preparing graduates for career and graduate/professional education choices.

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.

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Making Minors Major: Nishchay Ingale ’27

Lubin School of Business

Not every leader starts with a business major—meet the students turning Lubin minors into major wins.

Nishchay Ingale, student at Pace University's Lubin School of Business.
Nishchay Ingale, student at Pace University's Lubin School of Business.

Nishchay Ingale 

Class of 2027

Pronouns: He/Him

Currently Studying: Bachelor of Science in Business Economics with a Minor in Finance

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

Growing up, I always envisioned myself working on Wall Street. Pace University’s location in the heart of downtown Manhattan—just steps from the New York Stock Exchange—made it the perfect choice. The University’s strong ties to the financial industry and its deep-rooted presence in the city’s business landscape made it the ideal place to study finance and launch my career.

As one of the youngest interns at the New York Stock Exchange, how has this experience shaped your career goals?

I’ve been interested in financial markets since middle school, but joining the New York Stock Exchange helped me grow even more—both personally and professionally. It’s been a strong start to my trading career. I receive valuable advice from my colleagues every day and continue to learn something new at the Exchange, which I know will help me become a great trader in the future.

Can you tell us more about launching Ingale Research? What inspired you to start your own equity research firm, and what are your goals for its future?

This summer, I launched Ingale Research—an independent firm focused on deep dives into company fundamentals and financials. We have analysts covering various sectors to help us understand the full scope of this beautiful market. My goal isn’t to give financial advice, but to provide high-quality, in-depth research reports that allow others to make their own investment decisions. Through this process, I aim to keep growing and evolving as a trader.

To become successful, you don’t need to be talented; you need to be obsessed with winning. Obsession always beats talent.

You recently helped initiate a potential academic partnership between Pace and the Chartered Market Technician (CMT) Association. What sparked this initiative, and what do you hope it brings to fellow students?

While working on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange, I connected with a board member of the CMT Association, who introduced me to the CEO. I then helped connect our dean with the CMT’s leadership. I believe this partnership has great potential—it can help fellow students prepare for the CMT exam and enhance their careers. I also think Pace and the CMT Association can collaborate on research that contributes meaningfully to the trading industry.

What has it been like preparing for financial trading exams at such a young age, and what motivated you to pursue them so early in your career?

Preparing for these exams while attending university and working at the NYSE was incredibly stressful and demanding. But I believe pressure is a privilege—it means people are counting on you to succeed. I come from a very supportive family, and my parents have always believed in me. Their encouragement and the values they instilled in me motivated me to take on these challenges early in my career.

What has been your favorite opportunity at Pace?

I’ve really benefited from our networking and advising events, where I’ve had the chance to meet industry professionals and learn directly from them. I think our alumni network at Pace is very strong, and it’s been great connecting with successful graduates and gaining their insight.

How has Lubin supported or enhanced your professional development so far—whether through coursework, faculty, or networking?

Lubin has had a tremendous impact on me. What stands out most is the experience of the faculty—they didn’t just teach from books, they coached me through interviews, real-world scenarios, and how to handle high-pressure situations. Access to seasoned Wall Street professionals who visit campus and share real advice is something truly unique to Lubin.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

To me, #LubinLife means excelling both inside and outside the classroom, sharpening my competitive edge, growing personally and professionally, making my family proud, and—most importantly—winning.

Do you have any advice for other Lubin students?

To become successful, you don’t need to be talented; you need to be obsessed with winning. Obsession always beats talent.

Connect with Nishchay:

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A Journey of Growth and Purpose: Melis Ozcan '24 LLM

Elisabeth Haub School of Law

Initially, Melis Ozcan ’24 LLM described her main objective in pursuing her LLM as to sit for the New York Bar Exam, however, her educational experience at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University ultimately contributed to her personal growth while also providing her with a high-quality legal education.

Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Melis Ozcan '24 LLM
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Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Melis Ozcan '24 LLM

Initially, Melis Ozcan ’24 LLM described her main objective in pursuing her LLM as to sit for the New York Bar Exam, however, her educational experience at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University ultimately contributed to her personal growth while also providing her with a high-quality legal education. “When deciding which school to attend, I consulted coworkers who had previously done LLM programs in the United States and Haub Law came highly recommended—I learned of an acquaintance, a Haub Law graduate, who had carved out a very successful career at a globally renowned company,” said Melis. “That truly impressed me. After researching the school further, I found its location and history particularly appealing.”

Once she began her studies at Pace Haub Law, Melis shares that it was a truly unique experience and exactly what she had hoped for. “My classes were comprised of lawyers from all over the world; some were recent graduates, while others were experienced attorneys with a passion for ongoing professional development. Studying and interacting with them in an academic setting, exchanging ideas and learning from each other, was incredible.” The supportive and accessible atmosphere and faculty were equally impressive to Melis. “Everyone was always willing to help. The personalized attention available made it very easy to adapt to a different culture and also a different legal system.”

While Melis enjoyed so many of her LLM classes, she describes her absolute favorite as Civil Procedure with Professor Michael Mushlin. “I am so grateful I took Civil Procedure during my first semester of the LLM program because Professor Mushlin is truly one of the most engaging and effective instructors I’ve ever encountered,” recalls Melis. “I consider him to be one of Pace Haub Law’s greatest assets, and I think everyone should experience taking at least one course with him. I’m convinced that my clear understanding of Civil Procedure played a major role in helping me pass the Bar Exam on my first attempt, saving me a tremendous amount of time and energy during my studies. Professor Mushlin has wonderful and effective teaching methods.” Melis also describes another standout class for her as Advanced Issues in Criminal Law: Sex Crimes with Adjunct Professor Fredric Green. She describes the course as incredibly eye-opening and an unforgettable experience having it taught by a highly experienced and successful prosecutor.

While Melis was an LLM student, one of her biggest pieces of advice for anyone enrolling in an LLM program is to make sure you enroll in at least one course with JD students and interact with them as much as possible. “I don’t believe you can fully experience what it’s like to be a law student in the United States without engaging with local students. While it’s invaluable to connect with your fellow international classmates, building relationships with JD students equally contributes to your academic and personal growth. By attending classes with them and actively participating in class discussions, you’ll gain far more than you might expect—for both your legal knowledge and perspective.”

I hope to continue making a positive impact in many more people’s lives as an immigration lawyer. I would not be able to do this without my LLM degree from Pace Haub Law.

Today, Melis is at Akalan Law Firm, specializing in immigration law. Immigration law has always been an area of interest for Melis. “My home country, Turkey, has hosted many refugees from the Middle East. As a result, immigration, especially human rights and asylum law—has remained a significant focus there. I’m excited to be furthering my career as an immigration attorney here in the United States, now that I’ve completed my LLM and gained a solid understanding of the United States legal system. I find immigration law particularly rewarding; being able to help individuals access more humane living conditions every day is extremely meaningful to me. I hope to continue making a positive impact in many more people’s lives as an immigration lawyer. I would not be able to do this without my LLM degree from Pace Haub Law.”

In her spare time, Melis loves going on nature hikes and exploring upstate New York’s parks, forests, and natural areas. She shares, “I really enjoy discovering these new outdoor spots, especially since this country is still new to me.” She also enjoys the more urban benefits of living in New York – including attending numerous concerts.

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Arbitration Scholar, Professor Imre Szalai, Joins Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Faculty

Elisabeth Haub School of Law

The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University is pleased to announce that Imre Szalai, a nationally-known scholar focusing on arbitration and the Federal Arbitration Act, will join the faculty as a full Professor of Law with tenure beginning in Fall 2025. Professor Szalai will teach courses on contracts, commercial arbitration, civil procedure, and legal ethics.

Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Professor Imre Szalai
Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Professor Imre Szalai

The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University is pleased to announce that Imre Szalai, a nationally-known scholar focusing on arbitration and the Federal Arbitration Act, will join the faculty as a full Professor of Law with tenure beginning in Fall 2025. Professor Szalai will teach courses on contracts, commercial arbitration, civil procedure, and legal ethics.

Professor Szalai has served as a commercial arbitrator in numerous cases, and he has written books, book chapters, and dozens of articles about arbitration. He is particularly interested in the historical development of arbitration practices and arbitration law. Working together with his students, he has written several amicus briefs regarding arbitration matters, and his work has been cited by courts of all levels and during Congressional hearings. Most recently, Professor Szalai was the Jones Walker Distinguished Professor at Loyola University New Orleans College of Law. Prior to that, Professor Szalai practiced antitrust law in New York City, and he then handled complex commercial disputes with a law firm in Miami, Florida, representing clients in connection with court proceedings and arbitration matters across various jurisdictions.

“Professor Szalai’s unique interest in the historical development of arbitration will complement Haub Law’s strong alternative dispute resolution curriculum, which has become an area of prestige at the Law School,” said Dean Horace E. Anderson, Jr. “His impactful scholarship and experience will bolster the student experience and provide additional opportunities for students to explore and develop skills in alternative dispute resolution processes. We look forward to Professor Szalai joining the Haub Law community.” In the most recent U.S. News and World Report rankings of specialty programs, Haub Law was ranked #18 for Dispute Resolution.

“New York is the birthplace and the center of commercial arbitration in the United States – Haub Law’s location and history of excellence in the field of arbitration and alternative dispute resolution is unbeatable,” said Professor Szalai. “The level of student achievement and faculty scholarship at Haub Law is extremely impressive. I look forward to joining the active scholarly community, sharing my passion with students, and helping students explore and engage with the many professional opportunities related to arbitration that the region affords.”

Professor Szalai graduated from Yale University, double majoring in Economics and Classical Civilizations, and he received his law degree from Columbia University, where he was named a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar. He is frequently interviewed and quoted in various media outlets, including the New York Times, the Economist, USA Today, the LA Times, NPR’s Marketplace, Forbes, CNN, Money, Time, and many others. Professor Szalai also maintains a blog about arbitration.

Haub Law recently announced the expansion of its faculty with the additions of Professor Lauren Roth, a health law and business law scholar, Professor Kate Skolnick, a seasoned public defender and criminal law scholar, and Professor Gregory Antill, a criminal law and philosophy scholar. The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University is proud to have more than 130 legal experts as members of its full-time and adjunct faculty. Faculty members are lawyers with outstanding academic credentials and extensive legal experience. They are student-centered educators who bring their diverse practice experience to the classroom. Through either prior or ongoing active careers as attorneys—whether as litigators, counselors, regulators, legal reformers, policymakers, judges, clerks, or counselors—our faculty have unique perspectives informed by their work in multiple fields of law in the private and public sectors.

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Pace Women’s Justice Center Raises Crucial Funds for Legal Services at Annual “Cocktails for a Cause”

Elisabeth Haub School of Law

On Wednesday, May 22, the Pace Women’s Justice Center (PWJC) hosted its annual Cocktails for a Cause fundraiser at the waterfront Barley Beach House, gathering community leaders, advocates, and supporters to help raise vital funds for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and elder abuse.

Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Samantha Lyons, Esq., Lauren C. Enea, Esq., and Stella King, Esq. at PWJC event
Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Samantha Lyons, Esq., Lauren C. Enea, Esq., and Stella King, Esq. at PWJC event

On Wednesday, May 22, the Pace Women’s Justice Center (PWJC) hosted its annual Cocktails for a Cause fundraiser at the waterfront Barley Beach House, gathering community leaders, advocates, and supporters to help raise vital funds for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and elder abuse.

The event, which came at a critical moment as domestic violence cases continue to rise across Westchester County and nationwide federal funding for domestic violence services remains under scrutiny, served as both a celebration of resilience and a call to action. Guests enjoyed an evening of signature cocktails, raffles and auction items, and heartfelt stories that underscored the importance of PWJC’s mission and legal advocacy.

“Our work is more urgent than ever,” said Cindy Kanusher, Executive Director of PWJC. “Survivors in our region are still facing rising rates of violence and abuse, and it is essential that we remain equipped to meet them with legal tools, advocacy, and unwavering support. With the help of our community, we’re proud to serve more than 3,500 clients each year with free, trauma-informed legal services that protect lives and restore hope.”

The evening also featured heartfelt remarks from longtime PWJC ally and advocate Alayne Katz, Esq., whose tireless work to honor the legacy of her sister Gail—tragically murdered by her abuser—continues to drive awareness and change. Gail’s story was the inspiration behind PWJC’s original office, lovingly known as “Gail’s House,” and remains a powerful symbol of the justice PWJC continues to strive for every day.

“In early 2001, the Center memorialized Gail’s life by naming their offices Gail’s House, giving Gail a symbolic resting place,” said Alayne. “The then-Dean explained that the Center’s work with survivors of domestic violence could and would give full meaning to Gail’s too-short life. The Center has made good on that promise. They have become the largest civil legal services provider in this County, specializing in domestic violence and elder abuse. The Center’s services are often the difference between healthy families and broken lives and tragic fatalities.”

Also in attendance were Vedat Gashi, Chairman of Westchester Board of Legislators and Nancy Barr, Chair of the Human Services Committee and Co-Chair of the Families Task Force for the Westchester Board of Legislators.

“What people don’t necessarily understand is that elected officials… don’t necessarily know the subject matter like [PWJC] does… if we really want to understand the subject matter, we have to go to the experts,” said Nancy Barr, Chair of the Human Services Committee and Co-Chair of the Families Task Force for the Westchester Board of Legislators. “[Cindy] has done a fabulous job over the years of explaining why what you do at PWJC is so, so important. We have supported PWJC every year at the County Legislature, and we really believe in the partnership between government and nonprofits. This is a particularly fantastic partnership between a local organization and county government.”

This year’s Cocktails for a Cause raised over $16,000, ensuring that more survivors will gain access to emergency orders of protection, custody and divorce representation, and critical elder justice support.

PWJC thanks its generous sponsors, host committee, and every guest who helped ensure this mission continues.

Waves of Change Sponsor: The ICON Foundation of Keller Williams

Shifting Shores Sponsors: Jane Aoyama; Enea, Scanlan, & Sirignano, LLP; Jacqueline Hattar, Esq.; Law Office of Alayne Katz, P.C.

Ripple Effect Sponsors: Apple Bank; Falcon, Rappaport, & Berkman, LLP; Patricia Hennessy, Esq; Jackson Lewis; Orange Bank & Trust Company; PCSB Community Foundation

Host Committee: Lauren C. Enea, Esq. (Event Co-chair) Sarah DeRise; Jacqueline Hattar, Esq.; Cindy Kanusher, Esq.; Alayne Katz, Esq.; Alyson Kuritzky, Esq.; Stella King, Esq.; Jana Kosberg-Kleidman, Esq.; Samantha A. Lyons, Esq.; Melissa McMonagle; Amanda Rieben, Esq.; Rachel Shehy

Cocktails for a Cause 2025 photos

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