Pace University will host At a Point of Change II, an outdoor student photography exhibition, which will be on view in front of One Pace Plaza from May 1–15 before moving to Pace’s Westchester campus until October 1.

At a Point of Change II features photography from two Pace alumni, as well as 14 undergraduate students enrolled in the Dyson College of Arts and Sciences interdisciplinary course entitled “Seeing the World Differently…Through Economics and Photography,” which combines economics concepts with photographic principles.

“The goal of this exhibit is to create a powerful visual statement that Pace is committed to sustainability, equity, and inclusion,” said Associate Professor of Economics Anna Shostya, PhD, who co-teaches the course with Associate Professor of Art, Inbal Abergil, MFA.

The course and the students’ work focus on using photography to represent the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, a group of 17 objectives set to be achieved by 2030 to better our world, centering on issues such as immigration, equality, climate action, and sustainable economic growth.

“The issue of sustainable development is critical in our world today, and what better way to raise it and call for action than to educate people about it,” said Jack Nierenberg ’25, Art. “This course not only educated me and my fellow students but gave us the opportunity to do the same for the public.”

This year marks the halfway point between the introduction of the Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 target. Shostya notes that this exhibit reflects Pace students’ understanding of the success stories that have flourished since the goals were launched, as well as the challenges that continue to lie ahead.

“This exhibition creates a platform for students to connect to these subject matters on a personal level and highlights the power of photography and storytelling,” added Abergil.

Each photograph in the exhibit is accompanied by a written piece, showcasing the students’ understanding and creative interpretation of the underlying principles of the goals.

“This class gave me the opportunity to expand my perspective on the interconnectedness of the world,” said Tasfia Rahim ’23, Economics and Political Science.“Professor Shostya and Professor Abergil have found a way to connect two seemingly unrelated subjects and spark conversations.”

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, New York, 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, School of Education, and Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems.

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.

Works Featured Are By Pace University Art Students in the Senior Capstone Class, Project Studio

Pace University Art Gallery is pleased to present “Cut the Slack: Project Studio Senior Capstone Exhibition,” featuring students enrolled in the Spring 2023 Project Studio B course, taught this year by Prof. Roger Sayre. The exhibit opens to the public with a reception on Friday, April 28 from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. and continues through Thursday, May 11.

Project Studio is the capstone course for the BFA in Art at Pace University. Enrolled students spend the full semester working on a single body of work in their chosen medium, whether it be a series of sculptures, suite of paintings, or a video short, which is then exhibited in the Pace University Art Gallery. Jenna Meyer, who is among the student artists whose work will be in view, says, “The class has given me a chance to explore my identity as an artist.” The exhibition also features art by Hasan Akinyele, Brianna Chiriboga, Xandria Anderson,Mariana Garcia Tinoco, Francisco Maldonado, Helen Markoglu, Brittany Patterson, Michael Segal, Caroline Schneider, Christian Solar, Kristina Vantasi, Yana Vulakh, and Naz Yilmaz. Prof. Sayre comments, “These students have been working really diligently all semester. I can’t wait to see everything completed and hanging in the gallery! It’s going to be great!”

Reflecting on the evolution from conceptualization to exhibition, student Francisco Maldonado says, “It is important for us to remember that this is study, so it’s not about making sure that the final piece is a 100% perfect. It is an introspective process in which we promise to deliver something of ourselves for ourselves.” As they prepare for their final student exhibition before graduation in the Pace University Art Gallery, Michael Segal adds, that he and his fellow Project Studio course students are “excited not only to see the work of other students, but to allow people in other circles to see the completed artwork.” Student Kristina Vantasi concludes, that although, designing an independent project for the capstone is “challenging at first, we are excited to see what everyone has made. It is a great way to end our time studying at Pace.”

The Pace University Art Gallery’s exhibits and events are free and open to the public. Regular gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 12:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. and by appointment.

Image courtesy of Francisco Maldonado

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, New York, 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, School of Education, and Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems.

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 Art Department

Visual invention, critical reflection, and creative action are the cornerstones of Pace University’s Art program. Embracing the creative exploration of both traditional art practices and new media, our diverse student body is prepared to take on the complex challenges of today’s world. We help you cultivate your highest self as an artist or art historian, and prepare you to enter the wide range of creative sectors and professional fields in the workplace.

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.

‘The New York Climate Exchange’ to Address Global Climate Crisis

Pace University is part of a winning collaboration chosen by New York City Mayor Eric Adams and The Trust for Governors Island that will create a world-leading climate solutions center on the 172-acre island in the heart of New York Harbor.

As a core partner in “The New York Climate Exchange,” Pace University will leverage its proximity and programs – particularly in the areas of environmental law, climate justice, water science, sustainability, ESG, business, and technology – in creating a first-of-its kind international center for developing and deploying dynamic solutions to our global climate crisis, while also acting as a hub for New Yorkers to benefit from the rapidly evolving green economy. Mayor Adams and The Trust for Governors Island on Monday announced the winning team and its objectives.

“At Pace University, our students, faculty, and staff walk the walk of sustainability every day and we are thrilled to bring our expertise to the New York Climate Exchange," said Pace President Marvin Krislov. “As home to the nation's No. 1-ranked environmental law program – and our expertise in Land Use, climate justice, ESG and regional clean water initiatives – we are eager to work collaboratively and bring an interdisciplinary approach to climate actions that forge a more resilient future for New York City and communities worldwide. Our expertise, vast student and alumni network, and location in lower Manhattan provides the perfect springboard for creating opportunities in the green economy and engagement on Governors Island.”

The Exchange will host green job training and skills-building programs for residents to help them launch successful careers – and convene the world’s leaders and experts seeking climate solutions.

“Fighting climate change is a real battle and it's a battle that we are going to not only lead the nation, but we are going to win,” Mayor Adams said in his remarks. “And together we are creating climate opportunities across the city, investing in innovation and inventions, so that today's climate solutions become tomorrow's economic powerhouse. And I want to be clear, all New Yorkers will and must benefit from this major investment that we are making.”

Stony Brook University, as the anchor institution, will lead The Exchange while other partners, including President Krislov, will have a seat on The Exchange’s Board of Directors. Local partners include Pratt Institute, New York University, the City University of New York, SUNY Maritime College, Brookhaven National Labs and IBM.

In addition to local schools involved in The Exchange, the organization will also partner with Georgia Tech, University of Washington, Duke University, Rochester Institute of Technology and the University of Oxford. Additional partners are the Simons Foundation, one of the largest charitable organizations in the United States; social justice and local advocacy groups such as GOLES, The Point and WeACT for Justice; treasured New York institutions including the American Museum of Natural History; and research and business leaders such as Boston Consulting Group and Moody’s.

“Duke is thrilled to be a partner in the New York Climate Exchange and its community-first approach to confronting the complex impacts of climate change,” said Vincent E. Price, President of Duke University. “We look forward to bringing Duke’s academic, research and applied expertise to this critical partnership, which will help provide transformational solutions to the climate crisis.”

Key elements of The New York Climate Exchange include:

• An engaging and interactive living laboratory with 400,000 square feet of green-designed building space, including research labs, classroom space, exhibits, greenhouses, mitigation technologies, and housing facilities, including:
  • All-electric powered campus with on-site solar electricity generation and battery storage with net-positive capability to serve the local grid
  • 100% of non-potable water demand met with rainwater or treated wastewater collection
  • 95% of waste diverted from landfills, making this one of the first sites in the U.S. to achieve True Zero Waste certification
  • Climate-resilient design of new buildings, all raised to the Design Flood Elevation (DFE) of +18 feet with no basements and living shorelines
  • All new and renovated buildings will meet the rigorous certification requirements of Living Building Challenge, and will be the first to achieve this certification in NYC
• A Research and Technology Accelerator that will source and nurture ideas, projects, and new ventures dedicated to solving the climate crisis.
• Workforce development opportunities for communities disproportionately affected by climate change — hosting 6,000 green job trainees annually — ensuring that New Yorkers most affected by climate change are well-positioned for new green economy jobs.
• Partnerships and collaborative grant opportunities with community-based organizations already working to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
• A Citizens’ Advisory Council, composed of key local stakeholders to ensure that partners’ and neighbors’ voices are heard and amplified as we jointly develop and implement new climate solutions, including those that affect low-income communities of color.
• A long-term plan for self-sufficient development that goes “beyond zero” toward net positive sustainability.
• Academic and community programs that prepare students at every level for careers focused on climate change solutions and environmental justice, encompassing hands-on learning, a semester “abroad” on Governors Island, fellowship and internship programs and continuing education.

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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, New York, 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, School of Education, and Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems.

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Rudra is a PhD student at the University of Southern California studying synthetic organic chemistry in the lab of Valery Fokin. Using a click chemistry approach, he works on synthesizing covalent inhibitors which can be used to spy on biological systems, as well as improve drug discovery, drug development, and drug efficiency. Prior to starting his PhD, he obtained his BS in Biochemistry from Pace University.

In addition to being a PhD student at USC, Rudra is also a leading member of Biotech Connections Los Angeles (BCLA), an organization aiming to inspire, educate and connect emerging scientists and entrepreneurs through initiatives that focus on growth, development, and diversification of biotech in LA.

Rudra’s goal through his graduate studies and extracurricular work is to highlight translational science within the public and private sectors of STEM with hopes of contributing to the growth of innovation within the LA biotech ecosystem and to promote diversity within these fields.

Why did you choose to attend Pace, and to pursue a major in Biochemistry?

I choose to study Biochemistry because, although I took biology and chemistry classes in high school and enjoyed them, I was naive and didn’t really understand the difference between them, so when I saw biochemistry as an offering for a major, I knew the decision was right for me. It seemed like the path of least resistance, which in retrospect, worked out for me, because Pace gave me a good flavor of both chemistry and biology, which I can implement in the convergent research I participate in for my PhD.

At the time of making college enrollment decisions, I chose Pace because it was in the heart of a global metropolis, which offered me an opportunity to tap into resources in New York City and in the surrounding biotech-rich Tri-state area closer to the Pleasantville campus. Additionally, they offered me a competitive financial aid package.

Tell us about your background, and what motivates you.

One of my main drives is to better understand human health and to uncover what makes the human body so resilient, and with this understanding, push our modern approach to medicine to improve health outcomes. My passion in this sense was solidified during my second year at Pace while taking organic chemistry with Professor Rizzo, who is a fitness enthusiast and health guru. In taking inspiration from her, I learned a lot about natural remedies and ways to treat diseases with the tools that mother nature gave us. Following this, I was fortunate to cross paths with Professor Chang, who introduced me to a biochemical approach to study the body through enzyme activities and visualizing how enzyme morphologies play a role in different species.

Did you have any internships/research opportunities or were you engaged in any activities on campus?

As a student in New York City, you really get to experience what the rest of the world refers to as the “New York Minute” because time really does move very fast in the city. At Pace, I have had the opportunity to participate in various undergraduate research projects since my sophomore year. Working with Professor Rizzo in synthesizing natural antibacterial and antifungal surfaces opened my curiosity to how chemistry affects the body, and, thereafter, working with Professor Chang to identify morphological changes among lactate dehydrogenase enzymes in different species.

One of my main drives is to better understand human health and to uncover what makes the human body so resilient, and with this understanding, push our modern approach to medicine to improve health outcomes.

In addition to all of the nerdy things I did as a student, there was also a lot of opportunity to explore my creative side. Some of my fondest memories at Pace came from being a campus tour guide/welcome center representative, mentoring other students as a peer leader for general chemistry, participating in clubs and organizations like the Chemistry Club and Tri-Beta, and working at a nonprofit organization called Breakthrough New York to support the underprivileged across all five boroughs.

What did you do upon graduation and what are your career goals?

After graduation, I knew I wanted to pursue higher education, and I had a lot of support for this decision from my family and Pace faculty, but I was not exactly sure of what to do. After reflecting over the summer, I realized I had the drive for STEM and STEM education from my exposure to the sciences at Pace, research opportunities, and attending conferences, so I decided to pursue a PhD in Chemistry during my gap year.

What advice would you like to give our current students?

One of the guiding principles that is tried and true in my life is learning to take advantage of your surroundings! As a student in New York City, there is so much opportunity around; if you have a calling to do something, no matter how small, pursue that thought. Don’t pigeonhole yourself into fitting a specific karyotype.

As a student in STEM, I obviously spent a lot of time within the walls of a lab setting and spent many hours studying, but New York City gave me a chance to sometimes step away

from the academic environment to explore myself and other interests which taught me how to be a multifaceted person.

Latoya Robinson

Ticketing Assistant, Live Nation Entertainment

Class of 2023
BBA in Arts and Entertainment Management

Member Of: Residence Hall Association (Vice President), Black Student Union, P.A.C.E. Board

Pronouns: She/Her

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Latoya Robinson is making a name for herself in the music industry and on-campus. As she pursues her BBA in Arts and Entertainment Management, she's also interning at Sony Music as an A+R intern, discovering new talent and helping them launch into stardom. Meanwhile, on the New York City Campus, Latoya is on the e-board for the Residence Hall Association and a member of the Black Student Union and P.A.C.E. Board, where she has the opportunity to curate and be part of major events.

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

I chose Pace University and the Lubin School of Business because of the excellent business program and location in the heart of New York City. The opportunities that come with being in one of the biggest cities in the world were a big part of my decision to attend Pace. The city offers numerous internship and networking opportunities, as well as exposure to diverse industries and cultures. Additionally, the Lubin School of Business has a strong reputation and a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for careers in various fields. My decision to attend Pace has provided me with the education and experiences necessary for a successful future in the business world.

How have clubs on campus helped enrich your student experience?

Joining clubs on campus has greatly enriched my student experience by allowing me to connect with individuals who share similar interests, expand my skills and knowledge, and take on leadership roles. Through club activities and events, I have had the opportunity to meet people from diverse backgrounds and form lasting friendships. Participating in clubs has also helped me grow professionally by providing hands-on experience and helping me develop transferable skills, such as communication and problem-solving. Being part of clubs has definitely added a dynamic and fulfilling aspect to my college journey.

You are spending your semester with Sony Music Entertainment as an A&R intern with AWAL. How have your classes at Lubin helped prepare you for this position?

Classes at Lubin have helped me prepare for internships in the music industry by providing relevant coursework and resources through the Arts and Entertainment Management program. Lubin classes have equipped me with the skills to analyze data and understand consumer behavior, which is crucial in today's rapidly evolving music industry. I have also gained hands-on experience through various projects and case studies, which have given me the confidence to apply my knowledge and skills in a real-world setting. I'm so thankful for the opportunities and experiences that Lubin has offered me, and I am eager to utilize my knowledge during my internship at Sony Music Entertainment.

Where did your interest in the music industry stem from?

As a lifelong music fan, my interest in the music industry stems from a deep appreciation for the artists and their work, as well as a curiosity about the behind-the-scenes aspects of the industry. From a young age, I was drawn to the creativity and emotion conveyed through music, and I was constantly seeking out new artists and styles to explore. Over time, I became more involved in the music community by participating in fan activations and connecting with others through social media, where I gained a deeper understanding of the hard work and dedication that goes into an artist's success. I realized that the music industry was much more than just the artists and their music, and I became fascinated by the business and management side of things. This led me to pursue a degree in Arts and Entertainment Management and a career in the music industry, where I can combine my passion for music with my interest in business and management. In particular, I am pursuing a career in artists and repertoire (A&R) because of my love for artist discovery and development. I find great satisfaction in being a part of the process that helps talented artists reach their full potential and bring their music to the world. I am excited to use my knowledge and skills to support the growth and success of artists and their careers, and to be a part of an industry that brings so much joy and inspiration to people's lives. I am so grateful to be able to work in this field and be a part of the industry that has had such a profound impact on my life.

How do you hope to combine your business skills from Lubin and your love for the music industry in your future career post-graduation?

I hope to leverage my business skills from Lubin to work in the music industry, where I can use my passion for music to make strategic decisions that drive growth and success for artists, labels, or live music events. I envision being able to apply my knowledge of management, marketing, and operations to create and execute innovative solutions that address the challenges facing the industry. Ultimately, I hope to bridge the gap between business and creative aspects of the industry, creating mutually beneficial outcomes for all parties involved.

You also serve as the Social Justice Council Chair for the Black Student Union on the New York City Campus. What motivated you to take on this position?

I took on a role on the Black Student Union's Social Justice Council because I strongly believe in the power of activism and community organizing to bring about positive change. As a Black person, I have a personal stake in advocating for issues that affect the Black community, such as racial justice, equality, and representation. The Black Student Union provides a platform for Black students to come together and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society, and being on the Social Justice Council allows me to play a leadership role in this important work. My goal is to use my position to mobilize the Black student body and make our collective voices heard on the issues that matter most to us and to create meaningful, lasting change through advocacy and action.

What has been your favorite opportunity at Pace?

My favorite opportunity at Pace has been being a general member of P.A.C.E. Board. As a superfan with a passion for the music industry, being a part of this club has allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals who share my interests and aspirations. Through P.A.C.E. Board, I have had the opportunity to volunteer at major events such as the Unleashed concert series and their behind-the-scenes events, which have been incredibly rewarding experiences.

I'm grateful for the resources and opportunities that P.A.C.E. Board has provided me, and I feel that it has been a crucial part of my college experience. Not only have I had the chance to meet and work with talented and inspiring individuals, but I have also gained valuable hands-on experience in the music industry, which I believe will serve me well as I continue to pursue my career goals. I am truly thankful for the support and guidance that P.A.C.E. Board has provided me, and I believe that my involvement with this club will have a lasting impact on my life.

Always be willing to learn, be proactive, and take advantage of the resources available to you at Pace and in New York City. Attend events, join clubs, and network with alumni and professionals in your field. This will not only enhance your learning experience, but it will also give you the opportunity to build relationships, gain practical experience, and develop skills that will serve you well in your future career.

Do you have any advice for other Lubin students?

My advice for other Lubin students would be to prioritize being a good team member in all aspects of your life, whether that be academically, professionally, or socially. It's important to be someone who maintains positive relationships, who doesn't burn bridges, and who is a good person to work with. Remember that the people you meet in your classes now could become your future bosses and colleagues, so it's crucial to make a positive impression.

Another word of advice is to not be discouraged if you face rejection during your internship search. I applied for my dream internship nine times before finally being accepted, and that experience taught me the value of perseverance. Keep applying and learning from your experiences, and never give up on your dreams.

It's also important to always be willing to learn, be proactive, and take advantage of the resources available to you at Pace and in New York City. Attend events, join clubs, and network with alumni and professionals in your field. This will not only enhance your learning experience, but it will also give you the opportunity to build relationships, gain practical experience, and develop skills that will serve you well in your future career.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

#LubinLife represents a dynamic and challenging environment where I can actively engage in various opportunities to enhance my academic, professional, and personal development. It represents a supportive community of peers, faculty, and alumni who share the same passion for excellence and drive to succeed. To me, #LubinLife is a symbol of hard work, determination, and the pursuit of knowledge and growth.

Connect with Latoya:

• Connect with Latoya Robinson on LinkedIn
• Follow Latoya Robinson on Instagram