Hearts, Minds, and Valentines

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.