Meet Raquel Sammartano! After receiving her Bachelor of Arts degrees in in Biology, Psychology, and Italian from Binghamton University, Raquel enrolled in the Physician Assistant (PA) Program-Pleasantville. In May she represented the College of Health Professions (CHP) at the national 2025 American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) Conference and Expo in Denver, Colorado. But what made this experience extra special was her father also being in attendance.

Robert Sammartano, PA-C, is currently a faculty member at the University of Mount Saint Vincent PA Program and has been an instrumental part of Raquel’s personal and professional journey – motivating her to follow in his footsteps as a PA.

What inspired you to become a PA?

Growing up, I had the unique opportunity to watch a PA make a real impact every day—my dad, a PA in pediatric surgery. I saw how he balanced medical knowledge with meaningful patient relationships, and how his role allowed him to diagnose, treat, educate, and advocate for his patients when I was on rounds with him. Over time, my own experiences in healthcare settings only solidified what I already knew: becoming a PA was the path that felt right for me.

How has your father (a PA-C) impacted your own journey to become a PA?

My father didn’t just introduce me to the PA profession, he embodies the kind of provider I hope to be. His work ethic and compassion are inspiring, never sugarcoating the challenges, and always speaks about the privilege of helping patients in vulnerable moments. He has encouraged me to find my own path but has also provided mentorship at each stage of the journey, from answering questions about clinical scenarios to helping me reflect on the responsibility that comes with the role.

What insights into the life of a PA did you get growing up?

From a young age, I observed the demands of the role—long hours, complex cases, difficult conversations—but also the rewards: the gratitude of patients, the trust of the care team, and the fulfillment that comes from making a difference. I learned that being a PA isn’t just about medicine, it’s about adaptability, communication, and trust. Those insights helped me approach this path with realistic expectations and respect for the profession.

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What was it like attending the national AAPA conference in a professional capacity alongside your father?

Attending AAPA was truly an amazing experience for me. I was honored to represent Pace as the AAPA Student Academy Representative (SAR), which gave me the opportunity to attend the conference and take part in discussions about the future of our profession. I’m incredibly grateful to my professors and program leadership who supported and encouraged me to pursue this opportunity because they were instrumental in making it happen.

What was it like representing the Physician Assistant Program - -Pleasantville at the conference?

Walking into a space filled with PA leaders, educators, and students from across the country, I felt a strong sense of pride in where I come from and the education I’m receiving.

Being there as a SAR gave me a new perspective on the broader impact we can have outside the classroom and clinic. I had the chance to meet and connect with student representatives from programs across the country, including other SARs who I quickly formed friendships with. We’re already planning to attend next year’s conference together, and those connections have become a meaningful part of my professional and personal network.

Why did you pick Pace (College of Health Professions) to continue your education?

I chose CHP because I was looking for a PA program that combined rigorous academic training with a supportive, close-knit learning environment. I knew I wanted to build strong connections with both my peers and professors while being a part of a community where everyone was truly invested in each other’s success.

What really confirmed my decision though was the interview process. Those can be intimidating by nature, but my experience at Pace was completely different. The faculty created an environment where I didn’t feel pressured or judged—instead, I felt like they genuinely wanted to get to know me beyond what was on my application. I walked away from the interview feeling seen, supported, and excited at the thought of joining a program that values who you are just as much as what you’ve achieved.

How has the Pleasantville PA program supported your professional development?

The program has played a huge role in shaping not just my clinical knowledge, but the kind of provider I will become. The faculty push us to meet a high standard of excellence, but they never let us go it alone. Their support is constant and intentional, always available, encouraging, and truly invested in our growth. From clinical reasoning and technical proficiency to communication and patient-centered care, they ensure we’re equipped to be well-rounded, thoughtful, and highly capable providers.

There’s also a strong emphasis on empathy and professionalism, which reminds us that medicine is about people, not just diagnoses. That balance of high expectations and unwavering support has been incredibly motivating.

If you could give any advice to someone interested in pursuing the PA profession, what would it be?

Stay curious! Never be afraid to ask questions, whether you’re shadowing, in class, or in clinicals. Some of the best learning happens when you lean into what you don’t know and even by making mistakes. This profession is built on lifelong learning, and curiosity is what keeps you growing.

I’d also say: know in your heart why you want to become a PA and hold onto that. This path can be intense and challenging but staying true to your values and knowing your “why” will carry you through.

And finally, what does it feel like to be following in your father's footsteps as a PA?

It’s incredibly meaningful. There’s a sense of pride in knowing I’m carrying forward a legacy of care and service. While our journeys are our own, I often think of how my dad has impacted so many lives, —and that motivates me to work hard, stay grounded, and always remember why I chose this path.

It was especially meaningful to see my father in his role as the surgical representative in the House of Delegates (HOD). Watching him bring his surgical perspective into important policy discussions—raising concerns, offering insight, and contributing to thoughtful debate—was a full-circle moment for me, as I step into my own leadership role while witnessing him continue to lead in his. Sharing that space with him was both humbling and motivating, and it solidified my commitment to being an active voice in the PA community.

Raquel is expected to graduate from Pace University in 2026.

Over the course of three days, the Environmental Law Collaborative (ELC) convened in Briarcliff Manor, New York to discuss “Blue Sky Thinking in a Red Sky World.” The ELC comprises a rotating group of law professors who assemble every other year to think, discuss, and write on an important and intriguing theme in environmental law. This year, the group focused on how to think optimistically and proactively about environmental protection when so much is going so quickly in the opposite direction.

The ELC facilitates dialogue among thought leaders and the goals of the bi-annual ELC meeting are both scholarly and practical with participants seeking to use their areas of scholarly expertise to study trends and significant events, ultimately hoping to improve the environmental conditions of today’s world and for the future. As part of the 2025 meeting, 18 scholars met to share ideas and collaborate for a forthcoming article and book. Participants included Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Professors Josh Galperin, Margot Pollans, and Camila Bustos, as well as recent Pace Haub Law Visiting Assistant Professor Paul Rink. Professor Galperin was on the planning team for this year’s conference and will co-edit the forthcoming book.

This year’s meeting was made possible in part through support from The Haub Innovation Fund, which is part of the generous naming gift to the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University, made by the Haub Family, tireless environmental advocates and philanthropists.

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The Pace Women’s Justice Center (PWJC) is thrilled to announce its 2025 "Raising the Bar" Benefit Concert, headlined by not one, but two powerhouse GRAMMY Award-winning artists: Colbie Caillat and Shawn Colvin. Set for Friday, October 24, 2025, at the legendary Capitol Theatre in Port Chester, NY, this highly anticipated event will combine incredible music, community energy, and the fight for justice as part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Recently named Westchester Magazine’s 2024 Best Nonprofit Event, Raising the Bar has long set the standard for benefit concerts in the region. Named in honor of PWJC’s mission to expand access to justice, the event raises critical funds that directly support it's FREE critical legal services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and elder abuse, helping clients move forward on their paths to safety, empowerment, and healing. With two GRAMMY-winning artists headlining for the first time in its history, this year’s concert raises the bar like never before—galvanizing the community in a powerful stand for justice and support for survivors.

Cindy Kanusher, Esq., Executive Director of PWJC, shares, "We are beyond excited to welcome Colbie Caillat and Shawn Colvin to our Raising the Bar Concert. Their music has inspired millions, and their commitment to purpose-driven artistry mirrors our mission to serve and empower survivors. This event is more than a concert—it's a gathering for justice, healing, and the power of community support."

Tickets for the 2025 “Raising the Bar” Benefit Concert go on sale to the public starting to the public starting Friday, August 1 at 10:00 a.m.

Sponsorships are available and include exclusive VIP experiences, premium concert seating, access to a private artist reception, and your brand showcased on Capitol Theatre’s iconic digital screens. Information on sponsorship opportunities for this event can be found on the Raising The Bar website.

Purchase Tickets Become a Sponsor

Pace Women’s Justice Center thanks Raising the Bar 2025 Sponsors:

Legendary Sponsors: Robert Gib Nathan & Jane Aoyama

The Hot 100 Sponsors: Carol & Ian Feldman; Jacqueline Hattar, Esq.

About the Artists

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Colbie Caillat is a 2X GRAMMY Award-winning, 5X GRAMMY-nominated singer-songwriter whose music has garnered over 15 billion global streams. She has received numerous accolades, including nominations from the Billboard Music Awards, American Music Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, and BMI Pop Awards. Her debut album, COCO, reached #5 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart and is certified 3X Platinum, while her Platinum-selling follow-up, Breakthrough, debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200.

Shawn Colvin stopped the industry in its tracks with her arresting 1989 debut, Steady On. The following spring, Colvin took home the GRAMMY Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album, establishing herself as a mainstay in the singer-songwriter genre. In the ensuing 30 years, Colvin has won three GRAMMY Awards, released thirteen superlative albums, written a critically acclaimed memoir, maintained a non-stop national and international touring schedule, appeared on countless television and radio programs, had her songs featured in major motion pictures and created a remarkable canon of work.

Interview Availability: Colbie Caillat, Shawn Colvin, and Cindy Kanusher, Esq., Executive Director of PWJC, are available for interviews upon request. Please email Melissa McMonagle at mmcmonagle@law.pace.edu or call (914) 422-4396.

Honoring: Dr. Nadine Macaluso

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Raising the Bar also shines a spotlight on changemakers through the Making a Difference Award. This year, PWJC proudly honors Dr. Nadine Macaluso, a psychotherapist and author whose personal and professional life is a beacon of hope for survivors. After enduring marriage to the infamous “Wolf of Wall Street,” Nadine Macaluso, PhD, has made it her life’s work to help other women understand, escape, and heal from their trauma bonds with pathological partners. Her own toxic relationship inspired her to become a psychotherapist, specializing in narcissistic abuse, trauma bond relationships, and complex PTSD. Her book, Run Like Hell, offers the reader both her personal experience and professional expertise to explain the behaviors of pathological lovers (PL), reveal the traits of women who become the “victims” of PLs, how women can leave safely, and most importantly, heal. Nadine shows how women can be "surthrivers" of these trauma bonds and go on to have healthy, positive relationships and lives armed with knowledge and awareness. Her work exemplifies PWJC’s mission of transforming pain into power.

About Pace Women’s Justice Center

The Pace Women’s Justice Center (PWJC) provides free civil legal services to over 3,500 survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and elder abuse each year. Our multilingual legal support helps clients understand their rights, navigate the legal system, and break the cycle of abuse—especially those from low-income and marginalized communities.

We offer direct representation in cases involving orders of protection, divorce, spousal support, child custody, visitation, and support. We also work closely with community partners to connect clients to additional resources such as shelter, housing, counseling, and more. Beyond legal services, PWJC leads and participates in more than 140 training and outreach programs annually to raise awareness and engage professionals and the public in the fight to end interpersonal violence.

Located in Westchester County and serving clients throughout New York, PWJC is a self-funded nonprofit legal center under the 501(c)(3) status of Pace University. With more than 33 years of experience, and a dedicated team of attorneys, professional staff, volunteers, and law students, PWJC has built an effective, coordinated community response to interpersonal violence.

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Jesse Ciron

Class of 2026

BA in Writing for Diversity and Equity in Theater and Media

How did you become interested in pursuing a BA in Writing for Diversity and Equity in Theater and Media?

I was an undecided major my first year at Pace with an intention to pursue musical theater. In my UNV 101 class, however, I learned about the BA in Writing for Diversity and Equity in Theater and Media major, and, after meeting with Assistant Dean S. Brian Jones, MA, and talking about the program and its experiences, I knew that it was for me. It incorporates what I am passionate about: theater, identity, diversity, social justice, and representation.

Why did you choose to attend Pace?

I always knew that I wanted to go to college in New York City and was also familiar with Pace University far before the application process began, as I lived near the Pleasantville campus. The student body at Pace is extremely diverse and are pioneers of social change, and that is what drew me here.

What have your experiences been like in the program and the faculty that teach within it?

I have had nothing but wonderful and supportive experiences with the program. Assistant Dean Jones has always been an advocate for his students and their voices; he is the best teacher, mentor, and cheerleader. In addition, my advanced writing in playwriting professor, Joanie Drago, helped me experiment with all my creative ideas and is the main person I thank for helping me develop my writing style. Further, as a cohort, students love to utilize each other in our creative journeys and provide opportunities for one another in our own works.

The student body at Pace is extremely diverse and are pioneers of social change, and that is what drew me here.

What kind of activities have you been engaged in as part of this program and how have they been meaningful to you?

Due to my enrollment in this program, I was able to present my work at the Future of Humanities event at Pace, attend events at The Broadway League and within the Pace Career Pathway Program, tour the New York Theatre Workshop, and so much more. These activities have been meaningful by encouraging me to network and providing me with learning opportunities in the theater and performing arts industries.

What would you like to do upon graduation/what are your career goals?

My career goals are to work for a local theater company here in New York, produce my own musical, and continue acting. One day, I hope to teach and work with a children’s/youth theater and provide upcoming generations with an educational opportunity like mine.

Are there any challenges you have faced that you overcame and are proud of?

A lifelong challenge has been the journey of finding my voice and identity. Being a child of immigrants, the only one in my family pursuing anything within the arts, and many more aspects of who I am, have shaped and formed my understanding of myself and the world around me. While the journey is ongoing, my experience at Pace has helped me form myself as an individual and an artist as well.

What advice would you like to give to our current students?

To current and incoming students in my major, appreciate the journey and don’t forget to reach out to the people around you. Friends and family, whether biological or chosen, are always here to support you.

Maxelle Cohen

Class of 2026

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Currently Studying: BBA in Human Resource Management & Sports Marketing Minor

Member (Clubs): President & Co-Founder of the Undergraduate Human Resources Management Club & Member of American Marketing Association

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

When I first began applying to colleges, I wasn’t sure what direction I wanted to take.

After visiting several campuses in the tri-state, Pace University’s Lubin School of Business stood out to me. Its strong business program, prime city location, and overall environment felt like the perfect fit for my academic and professional growth. As an HR major, I was especially drawn to all the on-campus and off-campus opportunities, including internships, clubs, and hands-on experiences.

How have clubs on campus helped enrich your student experience?

Serving as the President and Co-Founder of the Undergraduate Human Resources Management Club has been one of the most meaningful parts of my college journey. I still remember writing in my Pace Path presentation during UNV 101 that one of my goals was to start my own club, and seeing that vision come to life alongside my peers has been incredibly rewarding. This experience has allowed me to connect with fellow students who share my passion for HR and to create valuable opportunities, such as hosting guest speakers like Mehnaz Ladha from NBCUniversal, to help us all grow our networks and gain real-world insights.

How has the Pforzheimer Honors College benefitted you?

The Pforzheimer Honors College has benefitted me in many ways, which challenged me to go beyond the standard coursework and think more critically and creatively. In addition, the opportunity to do research and special projects have allowed me to explore my interests on a deeper level, which I am excited to work on this year with my thesis advisor. The Honors College also gave me access to unique academic opportunities, like priority advising and professional development resources that allow me to tailor my education toward my career goals.

What has been your favorite opportunity at Pace?

There are so many ways I could answer this question. From what I’ve learned in class to the incredible events I’ve attended, but my favorite opportunity at Pace has been finding friends who are just as driven and passionate about their goals as I am. Being surrounded by people who are motivated, ambitious, and genuinely supportive has pushed me to grow both personally and professionally. For example, one of my friends is working at BBC Studios, and another is interning at Warner Bros. this summer. Seeing them achieve their goals inspires me every day. I truly don’t know where I’d be today without their constant encouragement and belief in me; they’ve helped me stay focused, take risks, and pursue every opportunity with confidence.

What has your experience been like interning with the New York Islanders' HR team?

Interning with the New York Islanders this past summer was truly an unforgettable experience. As the only HR intern in the department, I was lucky to receive one-on-one mentorship and hands-on opportunities every single day. From the moment I joined, the team made me feel welcomed and valued, encouraging me to take initiative and contribute in meaningful ways. During my time there, I assisted with the recruiting process, onboarding new employees, conducting compliance audits, and supporting employee engagement initiatives. Working so closely with experienced HR professionals gave me an inside look at how HR operates within a professional sports organization and solidified my passion for pursuing this career path. Overall, this internship allowed me to build practical skills, boost my confidence, and expand my network in the sports industry; it was an experience that truly shaped my goals for the future.

How did Lubin help prepare you for your internship in human resources?

Lubin prepared me well for my HR internship by providing a strong foundation in both the theory and practical aspects of HR Management. Through my HR class with Professor Coatman and other courses in my curriculum, I was able to learn essential topics that helped me understand the key functions of HR before starting my internship. Additionally, Lubin’s courses that are filled with case studies, group projects, and real-world applications taught me skills like communications and problem solving that were helpful with my team at the Islanders. The support from professors in both my human resources major and sports marketing minor gave me the confidence and preparation I needed to step into the professional world.

The support from professors in both my human resources major and sports marketing minor gave me the confidence and preparation I needed to step into the professional world.

What have you learned about the sports industry through your internship that surprised you?

As a Sports Marketing minor, I’ve taken classes like Sports Sponsorship and Special Events Marketing, which gave me a strong foundation in understanding what goes on behind the scenes in the sports world. But during my internship, I was surprised to see just how much work happens beyond the visible areas like marketing and game day operations. Departments that often stay behind the scenes, such as HR, strategy & analytics, and partnerships, play an equally, if not more, crucial role in building and maintaining a strong team culture. In an industry that’s always under public scrutiny, having a motivated and well-supported staff is essential for success, and the Islanders are an organization that truly invests in making this happen.

Do you have any advice for other Lubin students?

My biggest piece of advice for other Lubin students is to really focus on building and maintaining a strong professional network. I know the word “networking” probably gets thrown around a lot during your four years at Pace, but it truly is the key to success. This is especially true in the sports industry, which is extremely competitive and can be tough to break into. The connections you make can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even posted online. Attend events, join clubs, and don’t be afraid to reach out to professionals for informational interviews, even a simple LinkedIn message can go a long way. The relationships you build now can end up being the key to unlocking your future, whether it’s in sports or any other field you choose, so make sure you’re prioritizing that while exploring your career options at Pace.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

To me, #LubinLife is more than just classes and assignments. It is a community that pushes you to be your best every day. It is about those moments when a professor goes beyond the textbook to share real industry insights, guest speakers who open doors, and clubs that turn ideas into action. When I think about what #LubinLife means, it is getting hands-on experience while building relationships that truly matter, all while discovering who you want to be in the business world.

Connect with Maxelle:

• Connect with Maxelle on LinkedIn