Where Innovation Meets Impact: The 2026 Seidenberg Innovation Awards

The Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems hosted its annual Seidenberg Innovation Awards (SIA) on April 16, 2026, welcoming leaders in technology, education, and business to Pace University’s New York City campus. The event recognized leaders who support the continued advancement of education, raising critical funds to enhance access and elevate students of diverse backgrounds to be appropriately prepared for meaningful careers in tech.

During this year’s edition of SIA, co-chaired by Jaime Mantilla '94 and Vipul Nagrath '94, MS '96, three distinguished honorees were celebrated for their impact across innovation, leadership, and community engagement.

Al Bunshaft, former Senior Vice President of Academia and Education at Dassault Systèmes and President of the Dassault Systèmes US Foundation, was honored for his contributions to advancing STEM education. Throughout his career, including leadership roles at Dassault Systèmes and IBM, he has helped expand how emerging technologies such as 3D visualization and simulation are used to prepare students for evolving workforce demands.

Gale Epstein, co-founder and creative force behind Hanky Panky, has built a globally influential brand grounded in thoughtful design and craftsmanship. In addition to her achievements in the fashion industry, she was recognized for playing a key role in supporting environmental, social, and arts initiatives, including interdisciplinary innovation through the Gale Epstein Center for Technology, Policy and the Environment at Pace.

Chris Iervolino ’87, MS ’96, DPS ’02, Managing Vice President at Gartner leading Artificial Intelligence and Analytics insights, was honored for his leadership in navigating major waves of technological change. From early enterprise systems to today’s AI-driven landscape, his career reflects the growing role of technology in shaping business strategy. Prior to Gartner, he held leadership roles at KPMG, ITEC, Oracle, and Deloitte. A three-time Pace alumnus and former adjunct professor, he has maintained a strong connection to Seidenberg while preparing the next generation of tech leaders.

The program included a formal awards presentation alongside opportunities for connection and collaboration among attendees. Students played an active role in the evening, including introducing honorees and engaging with industry leaders and mentors. This was a powerful reminder of Seidenberg’s overall mission: preparing our students to be innovators by giving them opportunities for experiential hands-on learning, applied research, and real-world engagement.

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While the evening highlighted the accomplishments of this year’s honorees, it also reinforced the broader purpose behind SIA. As Seidenberg’s largest annual event, it provides critical support for initiatives that enhance the academic experience—funding scholarships, graduate assistantships, student programming, lab resources, and opportunities for research and professional development.

Proceeds from the event will directly benefit student scholarships and strategic initiatives within the Seidenberg School, supporting hands-on education for students who will shape the future of technology. The Seidenberg team extends its gratitude to all who contributed to the success of this year’s event.

View photos from the event