Pace University News

Pace Haub Law Professor Bennett Gershman was featured across multiple outlets during winter break for commentary on criminal justice and accountability. In CBS News, he explains why hit-and-run cases are often difficult to prosecute, noting that convictions can hinge on whether prosecutors can gather enough evidence to overcome common defenses like “I didn’t realize what I did” or claims that it was dark or unclear. “It’s difficult to get enough evidence to prosecute effectively, and to convince a jury,” he said.

In his op-ed, “To Make Energy More Affordable, Double Down on Renewables,” published in the Times Union, Michael Hamersky, Executive Director of the Pace Energy and Climate Center, challenges the narrative that clean energy policies are responsible for rising energy costs. Drawing on decades of empirical data, Hamersky argues that renewable energy sources including wind, solar, and geothermal, offer long-term price stability and lower system-wide costs than continued reliance on fossil fuels. “The fossil fuel status quo created our current energy affordability crisis. If we continue to commit to that approach by subsidizing old power plants or building new pipelines, we will lock in a long-term obstacle to lower energy prices,” he writes.

Reuters leads the week with an op-ed from Pace Haub Law Professor John Bandler on how organizations can build stronger cybersecurity programs amid escalating digital threats. Professor Bandler outlines practical steps to protect against cybercrime and better manage information systems.

Dyson Professor Melvin Williams speaks to USA Today on the cultural impact of the viral television series Heated Rivalry. Professor Williams highlights how the show has sparked meaningful conversations about queerness, sexuality, and representation in professional sports, noting that the strong audience response reflects a growing openness to queer narratives—even amid broader cultural backlash.

Haub Law Professor Bennett Gershman writes a piece in amNewYork examining New York’s Grieving Families Act. Professor Gershman explores the legal and policy implications of proposed changes to the state’s wrongful death statute, raising concerns about how the legislation could affect families, courts, and the broader civil justice system. Professor Gershman also writes in New York Law Journal, examining renewed calls for federal courts to reassert their supervisory power amid mounting criticism of the U.S. Department of Justice.

Haub Law Professor and Director of the Immigration Justice Clinic Amelia Wilson speaks to Newsweek about immigration court backlogs nationwide. Professor Wilson notes that while the backlog has declined significantly in 2025, the abrupt dismissal of experienced immigration judges has created new regional challenges that could slow progress.

Pace’s commitment to experiential learning and community engagement is also highlighted by News 12 Westchester, which covered the graduation ceremony for the University’s Parenting, Prison, and Pups program. Led by Dyson Criminal Justice Professor Kimberly Collica-Cox, the initiative brings together Pace students, incarcerated mothers at the Westchester County Jail, and therapy dogs to support healing, parenting skills, and emotional well-being. This semester, nine mothers and ten students graduated from the program, marking a meaningful milestone for participants and the broader community.