
Empowering Developers: The Pace Experience of a Successful Startup Entrepreneur
Fabian Hiller is an international graduate student at the Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems, whose journey in tech entrepreneurship is marked by passion, innovation, and hands-on experience.


Fabian Hiller is an international graduate student (MS in Computer Science) at the Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems, whose journey in tech entrepreneurship is marked by passion, innovation, and hands-on experience. He originally started his open-source project Valibot as part of his bachelor thesis at Stuttgart Media University, and has continued to improve and develop it as a Pace student. Today, Valibot has been downloaded more than 7 million times, and Fabian expects to see even greater adoption in the tech industry.
Valibot is an open-source library designed to help developers build reliable, type-safe applications more easily. In software development, validating data is crucial to ensure that information entered into a system is correct and secure. Fabian’s project addresses this need by providing a flexible and efficient way to validate inputs, reducing the likelihood of errors and potential security issues. Valibot’s focus on performance and ease of integration makes the project an attractive option for developers looking to streamline their code and create dependable software across a variety of platforms, ranging from websites to web applications and web servers.
Fabian's choice to come to New York and study at Seidenberg was driven by the school's strategic location in downtown Manhattan, the strong support from faculty members, and the array of opportunities it offers for research, learning, and networking. As an active member of the Seidenberg community, Fabian emphasizes the importance of its academic experience, but also wants to encourage students to immerse themselves in extracurricular activities like events, clubs, and volunteering. Whether he's at the gym with fellow students or collaborating and making meaningful connections with tech industry leaders, Fabian has embraced the experiential learning ethos at Pace to grow both his technical and entrepreneurial skills. We had a chance to catch up with Fabian, so read on to find out more about his experience at Seidenberg, as well as his tips for success.
If you could pick an ideal day close to campus, what would it be?
I enjoy going to the gym and doing sports with other Pace students. I regularly join the boxing or volleyball club, play basketball, or work out in the weight room. I also enjoy walking around downtown Manhattan with friends and have good conversations.
As an international student, what made you pick Seidenberg as your school of choice?
There are many reasons. It starts with the great location in downtown Manhattan and ends with the immense support I receive from Pace University and its faculty members. Seidenberg provides many excellent opportunities to learn new things and meet new people.
If you could recommend one thing to students applying to Pace and to Seidenberg, what would it be?
I would recommend being active and attending the events that Seidenberg offers in addition to your normal class schedule. There are also many opportunities throughout the year to volunteer and meet other startup founders or employees from organizations such as Blue Origin, Google, Meta and Verizon.
What led you to pursue entrepreneurship in tech? Has it been a challenging journey so far?
I have been passionate about entrepreneurship and technology for a long time, and have tried many different things since I was a teenager. Be it game development, graphic design or video production. I have always enjoyed leading the foundation for new projects. I am very interested in having a positive impact on entrepreneurship and technology in the long run.
But, I cannot say that it has not been without challenges. Even though these areas are my passion, at the end of the day, it takes hard work and a lot of discipline to build great and innovative products with sustainable success in the long run.
What has been your favorite project to work on so far?
So far, Valibot has been my favorite project to work on. I started it as part of my bachelor thesis at the Stuttgart Media University in August 2023 and continued the research and development as part of my master’s at Pace University. With more than 7 million total downloads, I believe that it has the potential to soon be one of the most well-known and used libraries in its field.
How has Pace helped you with your projects?
In addition to all the benefits mentioned above, like great events and opportunities for networking, Pace University supports me with its Graduate Assistantship Program. As part of it, I get mentorship from Dr. Jonathan Hill and Dr. Christelle Scharff, and the financial support from the program allows me to focus on research and development of my open-source projects alongside my studies.
What are some of your future plans? Any research topics in the works?
Yes, I have a lot of ideas and plans. One of them is to release the first stable version of Valibot in the next weeks. Since the library could become a fundamental building block for many websites and applications, I expect a wider adoption and integration into other libraries and frameworks. I also plan to continue my research on bundle size and performance to further improve Valibot and share my findings with the open-source community.
Finally, do you have any tips or advice for students wanting to seek a career in entrepreneurship or tech?
I think the most important thing is to be true to yourself, to say "no" to stay focused, and to find your passion by regularly trying new things to enjoy what you do in the long run.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month at Pace University: Education, Research, and Business
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and it’s off to a strong start at Seidenberg. Check it out.


What’s the scariest thing about spooky season? Skeletons and ghosts? Nope. It’s the high risk of phishing, malware, and hacking attacks that take place around the globe!
Pace University’s Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems has a long history of excellence in cybersecurity education and research. Students who study cybersecurity at Pace University frequently land exciting jobs and internships in local and national corporations, as well as government agencies where they strive to keep data safe. This is no more present than through the exclusive CyberCorps: Scholarship for Service program. Available to both undergraduate and graduate students, the program covers the costs of a cybersecurity education and provides a full time job with a government organization after graduation. This program, alongside a roster of talented cybersecurity faculty, has empowered the Seidenberg School to train the cybersecurity workforce of the future.
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and it’s off to a strong start at Seidenberg. Check it out:
Converge Cybersecurity conference at Pace University
On October 1, some of the best business and tech minds in Westchester County arrived at Converge: The Hudson Valley Digital Innovation Conference on Pace’s Pleasantville Campus. The event was run by Westchester County Association and covered digital equity, broadband and internet, and the importance of digital security. Panelists included experts from IBM, AT&T, Optimum, Brookings Institution, Cuddy & Feder LLP, Slalom, Crown Castle, Empire State Development, and the STEM Alliance, as well as the City of Mount Vernon and the NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services.
Seidenberg Dean Li-Chiou Chen and Professor Joe Acampora spoke on the cybersecurity panel alongside NYS Assemblyman Steve Otis and Meghan Cook, Director of the Cyber Incident Response Team at the NYS Division of Homeland Security. The panel was moderated by Stephanie Pell, Fellow in Governance Studies at the Bookings Institution.
Cybersecurity education and research grant funding
Just in time for Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the Seidenberg School earned two new grants to conduct cybersecurity training and research, furthering Pace’s position as the center for cybersecurity in New York City and Westchester County.
Funding from Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc. will support an experiential training program to prepare Pace students for careers in cybersecurity. Utilizing Pace’s newly launched Cyber Range, an interactive technology environment located on the Pleasantville campus – and one of only a few in the region – students will prepare to fill roles with public and private sector employers and practice how to address and mitigate an orchestrated hack or other cyber threat.
A second grant from the Gladys Brooks Foundation will provide complementary hardware and software, servers, and internet networking devices to conduct educational training experiences on critical infrastructure security.
New cybersecurity degree program at Pace University
To top it all off, the brand-new Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity is now open for applications and will launch in the Fall 2025 semester. The program is available in both New York City and Pleasantville and will prepare students for jobs in cybersecurity.
Seidenberg also offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity, which is popular with career changers looking to join a field that urgently needs trained professionals.
Spooky enough for ya? If not, just remember this—a leading cause for cybersecurity incidents is human error! So stop leaving your passwords on a post-it, capische?
Helene and Grant Wilson Center for Social Entrepreneurship Leads Community-Engaged Research Initiatives in Westchester County, the NY Metro Area, and Beyond
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.


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.
Sands College Stars Shine Bright at the VMAs
Svetha Nallapaneni, Elsa Stallings, and Mckenzie Landis aren’t just Pace grads—they’re go-getters who took their talents to the 2024 VMAs, performing alongside rock legend Lenny Kravitz on one of the most iconic stages in the world.


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.”

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.”

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.
Economics Professor Explains Impact of Port Workers Strike on WPIX-TV
Clinical Associate Professor of Economics Mark Weinstock, MA, appeared on WPIX-TV (Channel 11), to weigh in on the possible economic impact of the port workers strike affecting 36 US ports from Maine to Texas.
“If the strike lasts less than two weeks, I don’t think the impact on the economy is going to be too significant,” he said.
According to Weinstock, the goods will still ship through the western ports and reach the New York City area by rail or truck with a slight increase in prices.
“I would be surprised if it were higher than 5-10%,” Weinstock said.

16th Summer of Wilson Funded Internships Kicks off with Orientation Event
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 16th year and has funded 205 Pace interns since inception in 2008.


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 16th 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.

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.
Lubin students named United Nations Millennium Fellows
Several Lubin students were selected for the prestigious and highly competitive United Nations Academic Impact and Millennium Campus Network (MCN) Fellowships.


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

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

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

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

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.
Williams Quoted in NY Times on Kamala Harris Outpacing Depictions of Women of Color as Presidential Candidates by Hollywood
Associate Professor of Communication and Media Studies Melvin Williams, PhD, was quoted in the New York Times in an article examining Vice President Kamala Harris’s historic run for US president, and specifically how it has outpaced Hollywood depictions of women of color as presidents in fictional film and television programming.
Williams referred to the lack of women of color playing commander in chief roles in the entertainment industry as an example of “symbolic annihilation,” an academic term describing the exclusion of groups in popular culture and mass media.
“We don’t put it on-screen, so you don’t see it as a possibility, and large audiences don’t even begin to fathom it as a possibility,” he said.

Pace University’s Sands College of Performing Arts and The Broadway League Launch Career Pathway Program
Pace University’s Sands College of Performing Arts and The Broadway League launched the first-ever Career Pathway pilot program, offering an exceptional opportunity for aspiring theatre professionals.


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.

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."
Kennedi Tichy ’26 Discovers a World of Opportunity Studying Abroad in Lyon, France
Kennedi Tichy, a business management student at Pace, shares her transformative experience studying abroad in Lyon, France. From the vibrant culture to newfound friendships across the globe, Kennedi reflects on how this unique opportunity broadened her horizons.


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!
More from Pace
Why not earn credits for your degree while exploring the world? At Pace, you can take in-depth courses or save open electives for amazing international experiences. Did you know a semester abroad can cost the same—or even less—than a semester at Pace?
The 2024 Presidential Election is just around the corner, and now’s the time to make your voice heard! From registering to vote, casting your ballot on campus, to attending fun voter engagement events, Pace University has you covered. Check out our guide to all things voting, powered by the Center for Community Action and Research and the Andrew Goodman Foundation.
Meet Deniz Ilgaz Sen '21, an international student from Turkey and an Arts and Entertainment Management major who quickly made New York City and Pace University her new home. She credits her great experiences at Pace to faculty and friends. To take a little break from the city that never sleeps, Deniz decided to study abroad in Florence, Italy, where she was able to adapt to yet another different culture.