The Helene and Grant Wilson Center for Social Entrepreneurship at Pace University leads and supports Community-Engaged Research across its many partnerships with local communities and organizations. Community-engaged research is a collaborative process that incorporates the input of individuals and organizations affected by research outcomes as equal partners in the research process. This collaborative research approach encompasses co-designing research questions, dialoguing on methods, influencing policy, and ultimately creating programs and interventions to address issues identified by the community, reflected in the research outcomes. The community remains a true partner in these decisions, ensuring that the appropriate actions are taken and solutions are relevant and beneficial to their lives.

Most recently, Westchester County Executive George Latimer announced a crucial new initiative led by the Westchester Hispanic Advisory Board and Pace University faculty researchers, Wilson Center Executive Director and Chair of the Public Administration department Professor Rebecca Tekula PhD & Public Administration Professor, Gina Scutelnicu Todoran PhD. This initiative, the first comprehensive needs assessment of the Latino community in Westchester County in over two decades, will provide valuable insights on key areas such as education, healthcare, employment, housing, and social services. Our team of Pace faculty researchers brings academic rigor and expertise to the project, ensuring the collection of high-quality, actionable data, and will support the County in interpreting the findings toward policy implementation. Professor Tekula emphasizes the importance of this initiative, stating, "Collaborating on this survey underscores our commitment to community-engaged research in Westchester County. We are proud to partner on this effort to capture the voices and experiences of Latino residents, toward the goal of informing and improving the delivery of services and supports." The data from this study will provide essential information to enhance county programs and services, ensuring they align with the current needs of the Latino community. The Hispanic Advisory Board, led by Chair Dr. Carmen Martinez Lopez, encourages all Latino residents to participate, as their collective input will be instrumental in shaping future policies and improving the quality of life in Westchester County.

Earlier this year, recent Wilson Center Faculty Fellow and Public Administration Professor Gina Scutelnicu Todoran, PhD and Wilson Center Executive Director and Chair of the Public Administration department Professor Rebecca Tekula, PhD secured a nearly $30,000 grant from the Council of Family and Child Caring Agencies (COFCCA) to evaluate the financial health of approximately 75 New York State agencies that provide child welfare services, including foster care, preventive services, and juvenile justice services. Working alongside two Pace University graduate students, Scutelnicu-Todoran and Tekula conducted a comprehensive financial analysis encompassing cumulative organizational revenues, expenditures, endowments, and other investments. The project, set for completion this fall, will culminate in a detailed report and presentations to executive and legislative leaders at both the New York State and New York City levels. Individual agency reports will also be provided for all COFCCA members. The primary aim of this research is to inform stakeholders of the financial health and needs of these agencies, and support advocacy toward informed and strategic budgetary decisions that will enhance child welfare and juvenile justice services across the state.

In another significant project, the Wilson Center partnered with Nonprofit Westchester and Dyson College’s Department of Public Administration to conduct a comprehensive study which led to the publication of Westchester County’s Nonprofit Compensation and Benefits Report. This study, funded by the Westchester Community Foundation, aimed to provide Nonprofit Westchester members, the broader sector, and government partners with data and insights to ensure equitable compensation and benefits for sector employees. Given the size and importance of the nonprofit sector in the county, the research shed light on the state of compensation and benefits for individuals delivering critical programs and services. The resulting report has empowered nonprofits with resources to advocate for investments in human capital, supporting the well-being and sustainability of their employees and organizations.

Previously, in 2022 a partnership with the Wilson Center, Pace University’s Department of Public Administration in Dyson College, and the Community Fund of Bronxville, Eastchester, and Tuckahoe, conducted a comprehensive community needs assessment to identify available services and resources for residents and uncover potential gaps in human services, healthcare, housing, public safety, daycare, and recreation. This year-long project was led by Pace faculty with the support of students, staff, Community Fund leadership, and local agencies. The outcomes of the assessment were shared disseminated among stakeholders and Pace faculty led several community conversations to help the Community Fund of BET, local agencies and nonprofits leverage the findings, prioritize programs, and develop impactful initiatives to better serve the residents of Bronxville, Eastchester, and Tuckahoe.

The Helene and Grant Wilson Center for Social Entrepreneurship commitment to community-engaged research highlights the importance of collaboration between academia and community partners. By involving the community in every step of the research process, the Wilson Center faculty, staff and student partners ensures that outcomes are not only academically rigorous but also practically relevant and beneficial to those who need them most. This approach not only advances academic research but also fosters meaningful partnerships that drive positive social change.

Under the bright lights of the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), recent graduates of Pace University’s Sands College of Performing Arts—Svetha Nallapaneni, Elsa Stallings, and Mckenzie Landis—found themselves on one of the world’s most iconic stages. They were not just spectators but integral parts of a high-profile performance with none other than rock legend Lenny Kravitz, whose electrifying act left the audience of millions in awe. For Svetha, Elsa, and Mckenzie, this was not only the culmination of years of training but also the realization of dreams.

“While I was performing, I looked up for a split second, and Paris Hilton was just dancing in front of me so nonchalantly,” says Svetha. “All I could think was, ‘Oh my God, that’s Paris Hilton!’ and then I went right back to the dance!”

“Getting to experience this dream with so many friends I made through my years at Pace was just the cherry on top! This was definitely a dream job of mine, and I’m looking forward to doing it again in the future.”

For Svetha, the journey to the VMAs started with a single phone call. “I was direct-booked for this project by Fatima Robinson and her creative team,” she recalls. Svetha, a 2023 graduate with a BFA in Commercial Dance, had worked with Robinson during her time as a Knicks City Dancer. Mckenzie, who graduated with Svetha and is also currently in her third season as a Knicks City Dancer, also made her VMA connection through her prior work. When the opportunity arose to dance at the VMAs, Robinson knew who to call. “This was the first awards show I’ve danced at, and getting to dance with Lenny Kravitz of all people was so surreal,” Svetha says. “Getting to experience this dream with so many friends I made through my years at Pace was just the cherry on top! This was definitely a dream job of mine, and I’m looking forward to doing it again in the future.”

Elsa’s path to the VMAs was equally exciting but rooted in her ongoing professional relationship with Robinson. Since graduating in 2020, Elsa had worked closely with the renowned choreographer as her assistant and had been a part of Kravitz’s Blue Electric Light Tour. “I've had the honor of working closely with her for the past year or so, and we just wrapped up our work as the creative team for Lenny's Blue Electric Light Tour and his kick-off show for UEFA at Wembley Stadium in London in June,” Elsa explains. “His performance at the VMAs was somewhat of an extension of the work we’ve done with him this summer.”

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The VMAs have always been known for their ability to pull in massive viewership, and this year was no different. The show attracted over 4 million viewers, making it the most-watched VMAs in years. Performing alongside Kravitz, the Pace performers weren’t just dancing—they were contributing to a performance that would be talked about for months. “The moment I walked on stage with my fellow dancers during the real show is something I'll never forget,” recalls Elsa. “The entire process leading up to the show was very intense, but right when I got on stage and heard the crowd cheering, I felt a wave of ease and confidence that I only get when performing.”

Mckenzie agrees, adding, “The feeling when we walked onto the stage and saw the crowd and all the fans in the pit was crazy!”

The preparation, of course, was no easy feat. Elsa had the added challenge of juggling multiple roles, from creative assistant to production assistant, while still fulfilling her duties as a performer. “Along with being hired as a dancer, I was also the creative assistant and production assistant... so balancing these three roles was pretty time-consuming,” she says. “The choreography for the performance constantly evolved, with changes being made right up until the day of the show.” For Svetha, this was all part of the challenge. “We had to make changes on the spot every single day, so being adaptable and smart while in rehearsal and during the performance was crucial.”

“My training before Pace was mainly in ballet, so I really wouldn’t have been able to perform this commercial choreography if it weren’t for my eclectic training at Pace."

So, what was it like performing with Lenny Kravitz?

“Given his unmatchable star power and icon status, Lenny is an incredibly humble, kind, and overall wonderful person to be around,” Elsa says. “He has a very hands-on collaborative approach while still giving his team the space they need to create. He's a true master at his craft, both as a performer and musician, so you can imagine how inspiring it is to be around someone of his caliber.” Mckenzie echoes Elsa’s sentiment about the rock legend, “Lenny was so nice and super involved in the process and vision, which was very cool!”

“Lenny Kravitz is everything you imagine a rockstar to be!” adds Svetha.

Both graduates credit their time at Pace’s Sands College of Performing Arts for preparing them for the high-pressure environment of the VMAs. “My training before Pace was mainly in ballet, so I really wouldn’t have been able to perform this commercial choreography if it weren’t for my eclectic training at Pace,” says Elsa. “For this, I’m very grateful for the curriculum and faculty that nurtured me into a well-rounded artist.” Svetha echoes this sentiment: “During the LA Semester, we took both Choreography for the Camera and Dance on Camera, which allowed me to see dance in a different way. I learned how to position myself in formation according to camera, how to perform to the camera, and what movements looked right for camera if I ever had to improvise! I don’t feel like I would’ve been as prepared if I didn’t have that training.”

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As part of a larger contingent of Pace alumni performing at this year’s VMAs, Svetha, Elsa, and Mckenzie were joined by Maddie Obregon, who also performed with Kravitz, as well as Andrew Mulet, who danced for Chappell Roan, Valeria Yamin with Katy Perry, and Hunter Tayman with Eminem. Their collective presence was a testament to the world-class training offered at Sands College.

For Elsa, Svetha, and Mckenzie, the VMAs were not just another gig—it was the opportunity of a lifetime, a chance to stand beside music legends and showcase the talent and discipline that Pace had instilled in them. “Nothing will ever beat the feeling of performing for me, and this was an extra special moment in my career,” Svetha says. “I don’t think I’ll ever forget rocking it out on stage with the legendary Lenny Kravitz!”

“Performing at the VMAs was definitely one of my big goals,” says Mckenzie. “And I’m blessed to say I can check it off the list!”

For these go-getters, the future is wide open, but one thing is clear: they are more than ready for whatever comes next.

On Thursday, May 30, the Helene and Grant Wilson Center for Social Entrepreneurship at Pace University hosted the Wilson Center Summer Intern Orientation, marking the beginning of a summer filled with meaningful work and professional growth for our 2024 summer cohort of Wilson-funded interns. The internship program is now in its 16^th year and has funded 205 Pace interns since inception in 2008.

Each year, the Helene and Grant Wilson Center's Funded Summer Internship Program funds up to ten students to work full-time summer internships at social enterprises and nonprofit organizations throughout the New York metro-area. The program is designed with a dual mission: to offer experiential learning and income for students with a passion for social innovation, social impact and the nonprofit sectors, and to supply those sectors with bright, highly motivated, and mentored students who can contribute significantly to their work. These internship experiences are to provide hands-on, substantive opportunities for students to make meaningful contributions.

The orientation program began with a welcome breakfast and coffee, where interns had the opportunity to meet Wilson Center staff and connect with their peers working across various nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and social enterprises in the NYC metro area. This initial meet-and-greet set the tone for a day filled with exploration and inspiration. Following breakfast, we headed outside for a walk to the historic South Street Seaport. The interns explored the local neighborhood, visited Pier 17, and captured photos while discussing Pace’s unique location in Lower Manhattan, its proximity and accessibility to our waterways, Governor’s Island and the New York Harbor.

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A highlight of the day was the visit to the rooftop at Pier 17, where the interns were greeted by Stephanie a staff member from Assembly Person Grace Lee's office, representing New York's 65th Assembly District. Stephanie introduced herself and shared her motivations and goals, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement, the strength of local government and its ability to influence change. Her call to action served as a significant source of inspiration for the Wilson Center funded interns, encouraging them as they embark on their summer internships.

After an energizing visit to the South Street Seaport, the group returned to campus for lunch and a detailed onboarding discussion covering a number of logistical items, including timecard management and addressing any frequently asked questions. This session ensured that the interns were well-prepared and equipped with the necessary information for a seamless onboarding at their respective summer employer.

The Helene and Grant Wilson Center for Social Entrepreneurship is proud to support our interns as they engage in transformative work this summer, contributing to the vibrant nonprofit and social enterprise sector in New York. This orientation event not only provided essential information but also inspired and motivated our Pace interns, underscoring the importance of their contributions to the community.

Twenty-five Pace University students were selected for the prestigious and highly competitive United Nations Academic Impact and Millennium Campus Network (MCN) Fellowships. Over the next few months, selected students will be part of this global leadership development program as they launch their own individual or group projects related to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Students will have the opportunity to connect with peers and leaders from all over the world while engaging in world-class professional development sessions.

Meet the Lubin Fellows

Abdulla AlSuwaidi

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Class of 2025
Major: Finance
Minor: Political Science
UN Project Focus: SDG 6 - Clean Water and Sanitation

Abdulla is excited to work with like-minded people to try to make the world a better place. He is also the current United Arab Emirates Youth delegate and is excited to include the voices of youth in important conversations.

Madison Everlith

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Class of 2027
Major: Women's and Gender Studies
Minor: Fashion Marketing
UN Project Focus: Gender Equality

In her project, Madison Everlith plans to address the marginalization of Black women in healthcare. She believes this is an important topic that more people should be aware of and educated about, and she hopes to boost awareness on the New York City Campus. Madison plans to represent the Dyson Women's Leadership Initiative (WLI) as she takes on her project to continue the fight for the future of gender and race equality.

Akithma Moraes

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Class of 2027
Major: Political Science
Minor: Business
UN Project Focus: Gender Equality

About her experience with the UN Fellowship, Akithma says, "I am excited to spend the fall semester working on the "Sovereign Empowerment Initiative," which aims to address gender-based violence by creating an accessible online platform for survivors. This initiative will provide crucial resources, peer support, and expert-led workshops, fostering a safe virtual community." She hopes to empower survivors to connect, share their experiences, and challenge societal norms surrounding gender-based violence.

Mikaela Regan

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Class of 2026
Major: Global Marketing Management
Double Minors: Environmental Studies and Sustainability
UN Project Focus: Sustainability

Mikaela has been reading National Geographic publications and watching movies about nature and animals since she was a small child. Giving back has always been a passion of hers, but she never understood why. She made the decision to apply her love for the natural world to finding a means of preserving its splendor. She is thrilled to start this adventure; the United Nations Fellowship provides her with the opportunity to collaborate with peers who share her passion to help make a difference in the world.

On September 14, 2024, Pace University’s Sands College of Performing Arts and The Broadway League introduced the Career Pathway pilot program—an exciting new initiative aimed at providing aspiring theatre professionals with invaluable industry insights and connections. The event, held on Pace’s New York City Campus, brought together forty students and six distinguished Broadway professionals in casting, marketing, and producing.

Sands College's Musical Theatre and Commercial Dance Department Chair Jesse Carlo, PhD, opened the event with a warm welcome. A panel discussion followed, featuring industry leaders Kristian Charbonier, Toni Isreal, Sammy Lopez, Xavier Rubiano, Aaliytha Stevens, and George Strus, who shared their personal career journeys and advice on navigating behind-the-scenes roles in the theatre industry. Moderated by The Broadway League’s Darrelle Johnson (Director of Inclusion and Diversity) and Tré Dukes (EDI Associate), the panel provided students with an inside look at Broadway’s diverse career pathways.

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Students then participated in breakout sessions focused on casting, marketing, and producing, where they received practical, firsthand advice from the panelists. The day concluded with a networking session that allowed students to connect directly with industry leaders and foster valuable relationships.

This landmark partnership exemplifies Pace University’s commitment to connecting academics with real-world experience. It gives students direct access to influential voices, empowering them to pursue their passions and build successful, impactful careers in the performing arts. "We are so thrilled about this new partnership with The Broadway League," Jesse Carlo said. "At Sands, we are aware of the importance of introducing our students to the full breadth of the industry and the extraordinary opportunities that exposure provides. We are looking forward to many more collaborations with The League."

For Kennedi Tichy ’26, a business management major at Pace’s Lubin School of Business, studying abroad in Lyon, France, was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. From the moment she started at Pace in 2022, Kennedi knew she wanted to explore the world through education. Her decision to choose Lyon—the culinary capital of France—was driven by curiosity and a desire to challenge herself.

"I didn't speak a lick of French or even know anything about Lyon, but as I put in more research, learning that it is the culinary capital of France, the third largest city in the country, and more, I was determined to study there," Kennedi shared. What started as a leap into the unknown quickly became a life-changing journey.

As the only student from Pace in her Spring 2024 cohort at the Centre d'Études Franco-Américain de Management (CEFAM), Kennedi’s experience was as challenging as it was rewarding. “It was a little overwhelming going to a new country all on my own, but the second I arrived, I was so eager to see what the city had to offer.”

“I traveled on the weekends to different countries...I am forever grateful for all of the experiences and memories I gained studying abroad.”

At CEFAM, Kennedi found a welcoming academic environment. “The university was small but had excellent staff and students, making the transition into a new school very easy. I was very social and ended up meeting and befriending people from all over the world,” she recalls.

Kennedi’s weekends were filled with adventures across Europe, from Barcelona to Copenhagen and Switzerland. “I traveled on the weekends to different countries...I am forever grateful for all of the experiences and memories I gained studying abroad.”

One of her most memorable moments was navigating Lyon’s renowned culinary scene. Dining at bouchons, family-owned restaurants offering traditional Lyonnaise dishes, gave her a deeper appreciation for French culture. “I adapted to French dining customs, which emphasize leisurely meals and savoring each course,” she explained. This cultural immersion helped Kennedi connect on a deeper level with her surroundings.

While language barriers presented challenges, Kennedi embraced the discomfort. “My biggest challenge was not speaking French...but I tried my best to learn by practicing with friends and using common greetings.” Whether taking a Bachata class in French or navigating daily life, Kennedi’s resilience and openness transformed obstacles into opportunities for growth.

Beyond the academic and cultural experiences, Kennedi’s time in Lyon left a lasting impact on her future goals. “I built relationships with local students and professionals that created a network I can tap into for future career opportunities. These connections helped me understand the importance of networking in a global context.”

Kennedi encourages fellow students to take advantage of Pace’s study abroad opportunities. “I know it may seem overwhelming and scary, but it is absolutely WORTH IT to go. Life is so short, and an opportunity like this is too good to pass on. Approach unfamiliar situations with curiosity rather than apprehension.”

For students interested in exploring similar life-changing experiences, visit Pace’s Study Abroad Office and attend a Study Abroad Fair. You never know what adventures await you!

Ross Carvalho ’25 built a successful career as a software engineer in India, but with the rise of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT, he knew it was time to take his skills to the next level and future-proof his career. “By 2022, I saw a trend,” Ross explains. “Companies weren’t just looking for software engineers; they wanted AI software engineers.”

Ross knew that to compete, he needed to build a greater basis of AI knowledge and began researching universities that offered strong programs with an AI-focus. He was drawn to graduate programs at Pace’s Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems, which integrates AI fundamentals throughout its curriculum. “At Pace, I’ve taken courses in deep learning, computer vision, and natural language processing,” he shares. “These are the fundamental blocks of AI, and Pace provides a solid foundation in these areas.”

Companies weren’t just looking for software engineers; they wanted AI software engineers.

As Ross prepared to begin his studies in New York City, he came across an opportunity that felt almost too perfect—a lab assistant position in Pace’s Computational Intelligence Lab. It was the ideal complement to the AI-focused curriculum he was pursuing—allowing him to not only learn, but actively contribute to AI projects.

He worked with fellow student, now adjunct professor Darsh Joshi ’24 who became a mentor to him, creating the infrastructure that would give students both the technology and the collaborative space to create AI models and predictive systems. They both envisioned the lab as a place to offer education ranging from data science concepts to practical industry experience. “We decided we wanted to bridge this gap from university to corporate by providing them these courses,” says Ross. “So, the lab performs those two functions right now. First is providing a platform that gives students access to computing services, and the second is providing educational content and mentoring sessions.”

It’s not just about learning in the classroom—it’s about applying those skills to solve real-world problems.

With his growing experience at Pace, Ross applied for internships during his first year, eventually landing a competitive six-week summer internship at Apple. Ross worked in one of Apple’s Bay Area campuses as a DevOps (development and operations) intern, helping manage the platform responsible for building applications like iMovie. “I worked on improving the platform, building a framework to test its various components, and even doing some production deployments, which was rare for interns,” said Ross.

Ross credits Pace’s Career Services with helping him secure the internship. “Career Services was incredibly helpful, especially with my resume. They taught me how to tailor my resume to specific job descriptions,” he says. “They provided personalized advice through multiple sessions, helping me tune my resume for each application.”

As Ross continues to build his expertise in AI, he remains grateful for the opportunities Pace has provided. “Pace has given me a platform to grow and explore,” he reflects. “It’s not just about learning in the classroom—it’s about applying those skills to solve real-world problems.”

Pace students have huge potential to create a big impact.

Since leaving India to continue his education, Ross has gone beyond basics with AI, finding mentorship and hands-on experiences to deepen his skills along the way. “Pace has given me a lot,” he says. “They have given me an on-campus job. They have provided me with guidance wherever required, especially from my mentors like Darsh Joshi, and all my friends here, my Pace family.”

For others looking to expand their AI expertise, Ross recommends students find problems where AI could have an impact and start there. ”Students should venture out. Focus, solve, participate in hackathons and competitions where these organizations work with us to actually solve a problem,” he says. “Pace students have huge potential to create a big impact.”

Learn more about AI and machine learning at Pace’s Computational Intelligence Lab.

The 2024 US presidential election represents a pivotal moment for the nation, with a wide array of critical issues at stake, including climate change, healthcare reform, social justice, and economic recovery. Your vote is your voice in shaping the future of these and many other pressing concerns. As a student at Pace University, you have the unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful change. Whether it’s advocating for a more equitable society, environmental sustainability, or healthcare access, voting is your chance to stand up for the issues that matter most to you. Get involved, take action, and help make a difference. Remember, every vote counts, and your participation is essential in ensuring that the values you care about are represented.

Vote Everywhere at Pace University: Make Your Voice Heard

Whether it's your first election or you're a seasoned voter, having the right tools and information is key. Through the Center for Community Action and Research (CCAR) and the Andrew Goodman Foundation, you have access to everything you need to participate in the voting process. From checking your voter registration to requesting and tracking absentee ballots, Pace is here to help. You can find your polling place, explore the candidates, and even get information on voter ID requirements or how to restore your right to vote. Voting is a powerful way to contribute to your community and shape the future, so don’t wait—learn more about how to vote as a Pace student.

Register to Vote: It Starts Here

As a Pace student, you have the right to register to vote using your residence hall address or your home address. Whether you’re voting in New York or another state, registration is your first step in making your voice heard. You can register online, attend a voter registration event hosted by CCAR, or visit the CCAR offices on either campus:

• NYC Campus: 41 Park Row, Room 404
• Pleasantville Campus: Choate House, Room 51W

Important Deadlines:

• October 26: New York voter registration deadline
• October 26: Absentee ballot request deadline
• October 26–November 3: Early voting in New York
• November 5: Election Day

On-Campus Voting: Convenient and Accessible

Thanks to the efforts of Pace’s student leaders, voting is easier than ever! For the Presidential election, students registered to vote with their residence hall address can vote directly on campus. Polling places will be available at the Student Center, One Pace Plaza in NYC and Willcox Hall on the Pleasantville Campus. Voting has never been more convenient—take advantage of this opportunity to engage in civic life.

Get Involved and Stay Informed

Pace University is hosting a series of events leading up to Election Day to help you stay informed and engaged.

Pleasantville Campus Events

Vice Presidential Debate Watch
Tuesday, October 1 | 8:30 p.m.–11:00 p.m. | Multipurpose Room, Kessel Student Center
Join us for a live viewing of the Vice-Presidential debate! Enjoy refreshments and lively discussions with fellow students as we break down the issues that matter.

Ramen and Registration with ASU
Monday, October 14 | 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m. | Gottesman Room, Kessel Student Center
Join the Asian Student Union for a fun-filled event where you can enjoy ramen while getting assistance with voter registration.

Voter Empowerment at Pace Makes a Difference Day
Saturday, October 19 | 9:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m.| Boudreau Lounge, Kessel Student Center
Be part of Pace's annual day of service and make a difference by learning more about voter empowerment and civic engagement.

Pizza Party to the Polls
Monday, October 21 | 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m.| Outside the Student Engagement Office, Kessel Student Center
Enjoy free pizza while learning how to make your voice heard in the upcoming election!

NYC Campus Events

Pace Drags Out the Vote
Wednesday, October 9 | 5:00 p.m.–6:30 p.m. | One Pace Plaza, Student Center
Get ready for an exciting drag show and voter information session! Celebrate National Voter Education Week with fun, food, and all the info you need on voting this November. Sponsored by the Center for Community Action and Research, Office of Multicultural Affairs, and the Center for Wellbeing.

Campaigning in 2024: Race, Gender, and Popular Culture
Monday, October 14 | 12:10 p.m.–1:10 p.m.| 15 Beekman, Bianco Room
Join a panel discussion on the 2024 Presidential Campaign, focusing on intersectional perspectives and the impact of popular culture. Hosted by the Women’s Leadership Initiative, Center for Community Action and Research, and the Departments of Communication and Media Studies and Women’s and Gender Studies.

Get Ready to Vote Tabling
Wednesday, October 16 | 12:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m. | One Pace Plaza, Tabling Hub
Prepare for the upcoming Presidential Election with the Pace Votes team. Register to vote, request an absentee ballot, and get all your voting questions answered.

Absentee Ballot Party
Tuesday, October 22 | 3:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. | One Pace Plaza, Zannino Room
Voting by mail? Stop by to request or drop off your absentee ballot and enjoy some food and friends as we de-stress from the election season.

Volunteer Opportunities: Make an Impact Beyond Your Vote

There are several nonpartisan volunteer opportunities for students who want to take their civic engagement to the next level:

• NYC Votes: Get involved with in person and virtual non-partisan voter outreach across NYC through volunteer opportunities with NYC Votes.
• Power to the Polls: Work as a poll worker this year! In NY, registered NY voters can work as a poll worker during the 10 days of Early Voting and on Election Day. This is a paid opportunity.
• Planned Parenthood Greater NY Action Fund PPGNY Action Fund is working in coalition with New Yorkers for Equal Rights to launch a broad volunteer campaign across New York State raising awareness about Prop 1 which would guarantee rights for pregnant New Yorkers, women, LGBTQIA+ people, those with disabilities, older adults, and people from different countries and cultures in the NY state constitution. They are taking on volunteers in person and virtually to out to voters about Prop 1.
• Common Cause’s Election Protection: Common cause recruits, trains, and deploys thousands of Election Protection volunteers across the nation. These trained, nonpartisan volunteers serve as voters’ first line of defense against confusing voting rules, outdated infrastructure, rampant misinformation, and needless obstacles to the ballot box.

Ready to Vote? Now’s Your Time to Make a Difference

Your vote has the power to shape the future. Be informed, get involved, and make your voice heard. Let’s show the nation what Pace Go-Getters can do.