Summer 2025: 10 Things to Inspire You

Pace students, faculty, and alumni have been busy—earning global accolades, rewriting public policy, leading campus rescues, and shining on stages from Portugal to Pleasantville. Across campuses and around the world, these stories prove that Go-Getters don’t just talk about making a difference—they do it. This summer, we’re celebrating 10 standout moments that showcase the grit, drive, and real-life learning that make Pace a force for good.

Pace AMA is Top 10 Globally

Image

The Pace University chapter of the American Marketing Association (AMA) made an extraordinary showing at the 2025 AMA International Collegiate Conference in New Orleans—one of the most prestigious gatherings of marketing students worldwide. Competing against more than 330 collegiate chapters, Pace AMA earned a place among the Top 10 globally. Their creative talents also shined in the Design Lab competition, where they secured a second-place finish, affirming the chapter’s leadership, innovation, and global presence.

When Legends Visit, Pace Delivers the Magic

It was already a day to remember: NFL stars Eli Manning and Shaun O’Hara joined NBA standout Jalen Brunson for a special event at Alumni Hall. But for Rejos “Jose” Neopaney ’25, the day turned extraordinary. Years earlier, he met Eli Manning through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. That moment came full circle with a surprise reunion—proving that at Pace, you never know what an ordinary day might become.

Pace Rises in National Rankings for Public Service

Image

Pace University’s Master of Public Administration program continues to surge in national recognition. According to the 2025 U.S. News & World Report rankings, the program now ranks among the Best Graduate Public Affairs Schools—an astonishing 61-spot climb since 2019. This leap reflects the Department of Public Administration’s unwavering commitment to preparing students to make meaningful, real-life impacts in the public sector.

A Five-Year Reign: Haub Law Remains #1

The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University has again claimed the top spot in environmental law in the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings. With forward-thinking curricula, impactful clinics, and internationally recognized faculty, Haub Law is shaping the next generation of environmental advocates and continuing its legacy of excellence—for the fifth consecutive year.

KIND Conversations and Shark-Tank Wisdom

Image

Pace University’s Front Yard welcomed a powerhouse of ideas when KIND Snacks founder and Shark Tank investor Daniel Lubetzky joined President Marvin Krislov for an evening of thoughtful dialogue. The two explored the transformative power of empathy, collaboration, and resilience—an energizing moment for students, faculty, and members of the Pace Community committed to leading with purpose.

Lifeguards, Leaders, and Life Savers

Image

When Pace alumnus Bryan Zirman went into cardiac arrest during a swim at the University pool, two students on duty sprang into action. Kieran Hagan, a fourth-year lacrosse defenseman, spotted Zirman underwater and executed a submerged victim rescue. Angelo DeAugustino, a third-year student, assisted with CPR and defibrillation until first responders arrived. Zirman’s heart began beating again before the ambulance doors closed. And later that day? Kieran suited up for his lacrosse game. That’s the Pace spirit in action.

Pace University Earns National Recognition in 2025 Carnegie Classification

Image

Pace University has once again affirmed its position as a national leader in student success, academic innovation, and public impact. In the newly released 2025 Carnegie Classifications of Institutions of Higher Education, Pace is one of only 33 institutions nationwide to earn the dual designations of Research College & University and Opportunity College & University.

Scaling Up

Fabian Hiller ’25 received the Jean Coppola Award from Pace University in recognition of his achievements while pursuing a master’s degree at the Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems. During his time at Pace, Hiller advanced his work on Valibot—an open-source project he helped grow from 50,000 to more than 2.5 million monthly downloads, solidifying his place as an innovator in the global developer community.

Student Power Meets Environmental Action!

Image

In a bold move for biodiversity, the New York State Legislature has introduced a student-drafted bill—created by Pace University’s Animal Advocacy Clinic—to ban the breeding, sale, and trade of red-eared slider turtles, one of the world’s most invasive species. Sponsored by Senator Pete Harckham and Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal, the bill marks another major win for the clinic, whose students have already helped pass landmark laws protecting elephants, endangered species, and more.

PaceDocs Does It Again

Pace University’s documentary team made another international debut in Terceira, Portugal, with Viola da Terra: Harmony of the Azores, a powerful bilingual film celebrating the Azorean viola da terra and its cultural legacy. Following a sold-out US premiere at the Jacob Burns Film Center, students captured stunning footage across the islands, spotlighting local musicians, artisans, and educators. Created in just 14 weeks, this latest PaceDocs achievement continues the program’s tradition of immersive, award-winning storytelling rooted in global heritage.