Press Release: Pace University to Host 12th Annual Broadway Stage Management Symposium at Sands College of Performing Arts

Sands College of Performing Arts

Pace University’s Sands College of Performing Arts will host the 12th annual Broadway Stage Management Symposium (BSMS) on Saturday, May 30–Sunday, May 31, 2026, from 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m., on its Lower Manhattan campus.

Pace University students with Tony award winning stage manager, producer, and educator Cody Renard Richard at the 2025 Broadway Stage Management Symposium.
Pace University students with Tony award winning stage manager, producer, and educator Cody Renard Richard at the 2025 Broadway Stage Management Symposium.

Conference will strengthen industry partnerships and enhance hands-on training for stage management students

Pace University’s Sands College of Performing Arts will host the 12th annual Broadway Stage Management Symposium (BSMS) on Saturday, May 30–Sunday, May 31, 2026, from 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m., on its Lower Manhattan campus.

The Symposium brings together Broadway professionals, educators, students, and emerging artists to explore the art and practice of stage management through panels and discussions. Created by stage managers for stage managers, the conference focuses on professional development and the exchange of industry expertise.

The Symposium will also offer live online participation and on-demand access to session recordings, expanding access for stage managers nationwide and internationally.

“Hosting the Broadway Stage Management Symposium reflects the core mission of the Sands College of Performing Arts—to connect rigorous academic training with the highest levels of professional practice,” said Jennifer Holmes, PhD, dean of the Sands College of Performing Arts. “This partnership gives our students meaningful access to Broadway leaders while positioning Pace as a national hub for professional training and artistic collaboration.”

In addition to educational sessions, the event will feature the BSMS Expo, showcasing theatrical technology and service providers, including Clear-Com, Stage Write, Prospero, and Virtual Callboard. Pace stage management students will work alongside industry professionals throughout the conference, gaining hands-on experience and supporting the broader stage management community.

“The Broadway Stage Management Symposium has always been about sharing the wisdom of Broadway’s great professionals with the next generation,” said Matthew Stern, founder of the Symposium and head of the stage management department at Sands College of Performing Arts. “Partnering with Pace University allows us to deepen that commitment to education while strengthening the professional community.”

Students, educators, and professionals can learn more and register.

About Pace University

Founded in 1906 and celebrating 120 years of preparing students for success in 2026, Pace University pairs real-life learning with strong academics to launch meaningful careers. With campuses in New York City and Westchester County, Pace serves 13,600 students across a range of bachelor, master, and doctoral programs through the College of Health Professions, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Elisabeth Haub School of Law, Lubin School of Business, Sands College of Performing Arts, School of Education, and Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems.

About Sands College of Performing Arts

Sands College of Performing Arts at Pace University is a cutting-edge performing arts school that nurtures artistic innovation and develops future leaders and changemakers in the profession. Renowned for its diverse range of highly-ranked programs, Sands College is committed to cultivating top-talent performers, designers, and production professionals. From Hollywood to Broadway, Sands College students and alumni have appeared in major film and television productions and theater performances such as & Juliet, A Beautiful Noise, A Strange Loop, Almost Famous, Hadestown, Hamilton, Kimberly Akimbo, MJ The Musical, Moulin Rouge, Ohio State Murders, Wicked, and the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Recognized by Playbill as one of the 10 most represented colleges on Broadway, Sands College continues to inspire the next generation of artists both on stage and screen.

About Broadway Stage Management Symposium

Founded by Matthew Stern, whose Broadway credits include Wicked, Finding Neverland, The Little Mermaid, Phantom of the Opera, and more. Stern is a board member of the Stage Managers’ Association, USA, serves as the head of the stage management department at Sands College of Performing Arts, and is the author of the upcoming book, Leadership Lessons from Broadway Stage Managers.

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Earning a Master's in Cybersecurity: 7 Benefits, Career Paths, and Salary Insights

Seidenberg School of CSIS

Is a masters in cybersecurity worth it? See the benefits, career paths, salary signals, and how Pace’s on-campus or online MS can help you move forward.

Programming code and picture of a lock.
cybersecurity graphic

Cyber risk is climbing worldwide, and the stakes are high: Global cybercrime costs are projected to reach $15.63 trillion by 2029. According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025, 72 percent of business leaders surveyed say risk increased over the past year, with ransomware still a leading concern.

As demand grows, many teams lack the expertise to keep up. The same report finds that two in three organizations face moderate to critical skills gaps, and only 14 percent feel fully staffed, which creates room for qualified candidates to advance.

If you’re wondering, “Is a master’s in cybersecurity worth it?”, this guide explains what an MS in cybersecurity covers, how programs are structured, typical admissions requirements, benefits and salary signals, career paths, and whether a certification aligns with your career goals.

What is a Master's in Cybersecurity?

A master’s in cybersecurity focuses on identifying, preventing, and responding to attacks across systems, networks, applications, and cloud environments. Most programs run 30–36 credits and can be completed in about two years, full-time.

Throughout the program, you’ll build a mix of technical depth and risk-aware judgment across enterprise environments, including:

  • Network security
  • Cryptography
  • Risk management
  • IoT security
  • Digital forensics
  • Secure software development

In addition to coursework, applied training is central to many programs. At Pace University, for example, students gain hands-on experience in the Pace Cyber Range, a secure virtual training environment designed to simulate real-world cyber threats. The Cyber Range enables you to practice the full lifecycle of an attack, from reconnaissance to defense and recovery, using industry-standard tools in controlled, attack-and-defend scenarios.

Rather than being limited to only case studies, students operate in live simulations with virtual machines and guided challenges that increase in complexity. This type of immersive training is crucial to translate classroom concepts into practical skills that employees expect in network security, digital forensics, and incident response.

In many programs, you'll also have the option to choose a focus area aligned to your target role, with concentrations such as:

  • Cyber operations, which emphasizes technical skills like penetration testing, digital forensics, and threat detection
  • Cybersecurity leadership, which focuses on strategy, risk management, and leading cybersecurity programs

Master's in Cybersecurity Admissions Requirements

Cybersecurity admissions policies vary by institution, but most programs look for academic readiness, a solid technical foundation, and clear professional goals.

Typically, universities expect a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, preferably in computer science, engineering, mathematics, or a related field. Programs value preparation in programming, networking, operating systems, and mathematics; applicants who have gaps in these areas may need to complete bridge or prerequisite coursework.

Testing requirements also differ by school. Some programs require the GRE, while others offer waivers based on professional experience, strong GPAs, or prior graduate study. International applicants are usually asked to demonstrate English proficiency through exams such as TOEFL or IELTS.

Beyond academics and testing, most universities commonly request official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended, a résumé or CV highlighting technical and professional experience, and a statement of purpose that connects your goals to the program’s outcomes. Letters of recommendation are often required or encouraged. Additionally, some programs may also ask for coding or writing samples.

Timing is another factor. Many programs admit for fall and spring, and some offer summer starts. Domestic and international timelines often differ to allow for processing and relocation, so review dates early.

Format and location also matter. On-campus, online, and hybrid options can affect course pacing, scheduling, and, for international students, visa considerations. Check each program’s modality options to plan an application path that fits your situation.

Is a Master's Degree in Cybersecurity Worth it? 7 Benefits to Consider

Rising risk and a persistent skills gap are shaping hiring across security teams. A graduate degree can deepen your technical range, strengthen your leadership profile, and help you compete for roles that influence strategy. The points below reflect current employer signals from the World Economic Forum’s Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025.

  1. Higher earning potential over time.
    Graduate training can open pathways into architect, lead, and managerial tracks where security decisions shape business outcomes.
  2. Faster career mobility.
    As noted above, widespread skills gaps can create quicker paths for capable specialists. A master’s may strengthen your case for architect, lead analyst, or manager roles, depending on your experience, performance, and market conditions.
  3. Stronger job security.
    Most leaders say cyber risk rose in the past year, and ransomware remains a top organizational concern, so demand spans many different industries. A master’s can position you for high-demand functions such as incident response, identity management, and cloud security. Outcomes vary by market, but deeper skills give you more options if one sector slows.
  4. Readiness for AI-driven threats.
    A reported 66 percent of organizations expect AI to have the biggest impact on cybersecurity in the coming year, yet only 37 percent have a process to assess AI security before deployment. Training that covers AI risk and secure adoption stands out.
  5. Preparation for real attack patterns.
    Preparation for real attack patterns. Courses and capstones mirror live tactics such as social engineering and ransomware, then push you through detection, containment, and recovery. With 42 percent of organizations reporting a successful social engineering attack and 45 percent ranking ransomware as the top risk, that focus turns into day-one impact on the job.
  6. Broader governance and strategy perspective.
    Geopolitical tensions influence cyber strategy at nearly 60 percent of organizations, and third-party risk is a major challenge for large enterprises. Graduate coursework in policy, risk, and supply-chain security teach you to write enforceable policies, run risk assessments, and manage third-party/vendor risk.
  7. Portfolio and applied experience.
    Capstones, labs, and internship opportunities help you demonstrate skills to employers and build references, which enables you to showcase your skills outside of a classroom setting and how you'll have an impact on the job.

What Can You Do with a Master's in Cybersecurity?

A graduate degree can widen your options across hands-on, architectural, and leadership tracks. Titles vary by company and industry, so use the roles below to map day-to-day work, the skills that matter, and current New York City pay trends.

Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

  • Leads enterprise security strategy, risk posture, and reporting to executives and governing boards
  • Key skills: Governance, risk, budgeting, executive communication
  • NYC median salary: $445,161

Cybersecurity Analyst

  • Monitors environments, triages alerts, and supports incident response
  • Key skills: SIEM, threat analysis, scripting, incident response
  • NYC median salary: $106,475

Threat Intelligence Analyst

  • Tracks adversaries and tactics to inform detections and brief stakeholders
  • Key skills: OSINT, malware basics, reporting
  • NYC median salary: $90,170

IoT Security Specialist

  • Secures connected and operational technology from design through monitoring
  • Key skills: Embedded security, network segmentation, cryptography
  • NYC median salary: $104,489

Information Security Auditor

  • Tests controls and validates compliance against frameworks; reports findings and remediation
  • Key skills: ISO 27001, NIST CSF, risk assessment
  • NYC median salary: $81,394

Security Architect

  • Designs secure reference architectures and guardrails across cloud and on-prem systems
  • Key skills: Cloud security, identity, zero trust, threat modeling
  • NYC median salary: $153,271

Incident Response Manager

  • Coordinates technical and business response to breaches and drives readiness improvements
  • Key skills: Forensics, crisis management, communication
  • NYC median salary: $142,357

Forensic Computer Analyst

  • Collects, preserves, and analyzes digital evidence for internal review, legal, or law-enforcement needs
  • Key skills: Chain of custody, artifact analysis, forensic tooling
  • NYC median salary: $79,343

Cloud Security Engineer

  • Hardens cloud platforms and workloads; implements identity, logging, and encryption controls
  • Key skills: AWS/Azure, IAM, encryption, logging
  • NYC median salary: $108,980

Penetration Testing Analyst (Ethical Hacker)

  • Simulates attacks to uncover exploitable flaws and reports fixes
  • Key skills: Recon, exploit development, scripting, reporting
  • NYC median salary: $102,683

Note: Salary figures reflect Salary.com NYC pages accessed September 2025. Some roles do not have an exact-matching NYC title on the site; in those cases the closest NYC title is used and labeled above.

Master's Degree Vs Professional Certification in Cybersecurity

Graduate study and professional certifications serve different purposes. A master’s in cybersecurity builds broad conceptual understanding, applied technical depth, and communication skills that help with higher-responsibility roles. Certifications validate targeted knowledge and are often used by employers to screen for baseline proficiency or specialization. The fact is, many cybersecurity practitioners use both over the course of a career.

What a master’s signals to employers:

  • You can connect technical work to risk, policy, and business outcomes across multiple domains
  • You have practiced research, lab work, and capstone projects that mirror real environments and team collaboration

What certifications signal to employers:

  • You meet a recognized knowledge standard that helps clear screening for specific roles or contracts
  • You bring focused expertise in an area such as governance (CISM), security leadership (CISSP), or offensive testing (CEH)

Popular certifications include:

 MS in CybersecurityCybersecurity Certification
DurationTypically 30–36 credits; about 2 years full timeWeeks to months; preparation time varies
CostTypically $30k–$60k+ in tuition before aid; billed per credit

Exam fees usually cost $575–$1,199 depending on credential. For example:

  • CISM: $575–$760 + $50 application
  • CISSP: $749
  • CEH: $950–$1,199

Plus, optional prep / training costs ($0–$3,000+) and renewal fees

SkillsTechnical execution, research, communication, leadership, governanceTechnical proficiency in the tested domain
ExpirationDoes not expireRenewal cycles are common; continuing education often required
Focus AreasBreadth across security domains plus depth in a specializationTargeted body of knowledge in one domain or toolset
Learning FormatFaculty-led courses, labs, and a capstone or thesisSelf-study or course prep followed by a proctored exam
Career ImpactSupports progression into architect, lead, and management tracks; strengthens long-term mobilityHelps meet hiring filters or contract requirements; sharpens candidacy for specialized roles
Flexibility of
Knowledge Transfer
High across industries and rolesModerate to narrow, depending on the certification

Note: Many certifications require annual maintenance fees and continuing-education credits to keep the credential active.

If you need fast validation for a specific role, a certification can help. If you are aiming for broader responsibility, leadership potential, or research and project experience, a master’s offers more scope. Many professionals complete a degree and then add certifications as their roles evolve.

Is Getting a Master's in Cybersecurity Worth It?

For many early-career professionals, the answer is yes. A master’s in cybersecurity can support higher earning potential over time, open doors to architect and leadership tracks, and provide steadier job prospects in a field where demand remains strong. The degree also travels well across cyber, information security, and national security work, since the core skills apply in multiple industries.

The academic experience builds more than tool familiarity. You develop technical depth in areas, such as network defense, secure software, cloud security, digital forensics, and risk management, alongside practice in communication and stakeholder alignment. That mix helps you qualify for roles that influence decisions, not just implement them.

Career changers benefit too. Structured coursework, labs, and a capstone can create a credible portfolio that shortens the distance from prior roles to security-focused positions. Pairing the degree with a targeted certification can further validate a specialty and increase competitive advantage as a job candidate.

Before you commit, weigh the fit for your goals and constraints. Use the questions below to check alignment.

  • What roles are you targeting in the next three to five years, and do those postings prefer or require graduate study?
  • How will you cover the cost and time commitment, and what is your plan for internships or applied projects during the program?
  • Which skills do you need most right now: broad preparation for long-term mobility, or a narrow specialization that a certification could validate quickly?
  • Do you prefer structured learning with faculty feedback or independent study with exam validation?
  • Where do you want to work geographically, and how might format options (on campus or online) affect your timeline?

A master’s can raise your ceiling, expand your options, and support movement into roles with a broader scope. Outcomes still depend on experience, performance, internships, and market conditions. If the degree aligns with your target roles and you can invest the time and cost, it is a strong path. If you need immediate validation for a specific job requirement, a certification may be the faster first step, with graduate study added when you are ready.

FAQ

Is getting a master's degree in cybersecurity worth it?

Getting a master’s degree in cybersecurity is worth it if you’re aiming for specialized or leadership roles and want broader preparation in risk, governance, and hands-on defense. A degree also allows you to address any ongoing skills gaps to enhance your advancement opportunities in the cybersecurity field.

How much can I make with a master's in cybersecurity?

With a master’s in cybersecurity, compensation depends on role, industry, and location; analysts, architects, managers, and executives command different ranges, but in general, cybersecurity professionals can expect to earn anywhere from $79,000 to $400,000+ per year.

Can you get a job with a master's in cybersecurity?

With a master’s in cybersecurity, you can qualify for roles across finance, healthcare, government, consulting, and SaaS, where sustained threats keep hiring needs high.

Is a master’s in cybersecurity difficult?

A master's in cybersecurity is not designed to be difficult, but it is rigorous. Good master's degree programs will require intensive work in systems, networks, cryptography, and secure development, plus labs and projects that mirror workplace challenges.

Does a master’s in cybersecurity require coding?

A master’s in cybersecurity often requires some coding; many tracks include scripting or programming for automation, testing, and secure development, though requirements vary by program.

Take Your Next Step in Cybersecurity with Pace University

Not sure which path fits? Share your background and goals. A Pace advisor can discuss program options, timelines, and support services.

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The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Celebrates Richard L. Ottinger

Elisabeth Haub School of Law

The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University mourns the passing of Dean Emeritus Richard L. Ottinger: environmental pioneer, dedicated public servant, leading scholar, and beloved teacher whose influence shaped this Law School and helped define modern environmental law.

Dean Emeritus Richard Ottinger, Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University
Dean Emeritus Richard Ottinger, Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University

Dean Emeritus Richard L. Ottinger: 1929–2026

The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University mourns the passing of Dean Emeritus Richard L. Ottinger: environmental pioneer, dedicated public servant, leading scholar, and beloved teacher whose influence shaped this Law School and helped define modern environmental law.

Dick Ottinger’s professional life traced the arc of public purpose. He was a co-founder of the Peace Corps. A sixteen-year Member of Congress. A leader in landmark environmental legislation. Founder and Chair Emeritus of the Environmental and Energy Study Institute. Founder of the Pace Energy Project. Dean of Pace Law School. A Scholar, mentor, and advocate.

Dick’s life’s work measures far beyond impressive titles alone. His professional life is measured in part by the institutions he strengthened, the students he inspired, and the legal frameworks he helped construct, frameworks that continue to shape environmental policy in the United States and across the globe.

Foundations of a Life in Service

Born on January 27, 1929, in Westchester County, Dick was rooted in the community he would later represent in Congress and ultimately return to serve through education.

He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Government from Cornell University in 1950 and graduated from Harvard Law School in 1953. That same year, he joined the United States Air Force, serving during the Korean War, rising to the rank of Captain, and twice achieving distinction for his service.

After leaving active military service, he practiced law in New York City, first as an associate at Cleary, Gottlieb, Friendly & Hamilton and later as a partner at Kridel, Malone & Spear.

Notably, he also co-founded one of the most enduring institutions of American public service, the Peace Corps, serving as Director of Latin American Programs from 1961–1964. In those early years, he helped build the operational and philosophical foundation of an organization rooted in global cooperation and service.

Congress: Environmental Leadership Ahead of its Time

In 1964, Dick was elected to Congress, becoming the first Democrat to win his Westchester seat. He would go on to serve sixteen impactful years in the House of Representatives.

He entered Congress at a pivotal time in American history and quickly established himself as a reform-minded legislator. He played a leadership role in efforts to modernize and democratize Congressional rules and procedures, but it was environmental law where he left his most enduring marks.

Throughout his Congressional career, Dick was often cited as one of the earliest environmentalists in Congress and one of the best-known experts in energy conservation. He chaired the Subcommittee on Energy, Conservation and Power and was one of the principal authors of the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act (PURPA), legislation that fundamentally reshaped utility regulation by opening markets to renewable energy and cogeneration. Here Dick played a central role in shaping national energy policy.

Throughout his Congressional career, Dick was often cited as one of the earliest environmentalists in Congress and one of the best-known experts in energy conservation.

Long before renewable energy and climate change became dominant policy conversations, Dick was advocating conservation, government-backed solar initiatives, and energy systems that accounted for environmental cost.

He founded the Environmental and Energy Study Conference, the largest bipartisan, bicameral caucus in Congress, to provide objective information on environmental and energy issues. That body later evolved into the Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI), which he would continue to guide as Founder and Chair Emeritus.

During his time in Congress, Dick did not merely participate in the development of environmental law, he helped define it.

Read more about his Congressional career in The New York Times.

Coming “Home” to Pace

In 1984, after sixteen years in Congress, Dick returned to Westchester and joined what was then known as Pace University School of Law.

It was here that Dick embarked on what would become one of the most consequential chapters of his career. As a professor he taught in the environmental law program from 1984-94, espousing his knowledge and passion on countless law students, bringing to the classroom not only scholarly expertise but firsthand experience in shaping national policy.

The Pace Energy Project: Transforming Environmental Law into Action

Shortly after joining Pace, Dick became co-director of the Center for Environmental Legal Studies and founded the Pace Energy Project, now known worldwide as the Pace Energy and Climate Center.

This was groundbreaking work, as in the late 1980s, climate change was not yet a central legal issue. Under his leadership, the Pace Energy Project was already advocating for the integration of renewable energy into state utility systems, promoting energy efficiency mandates, challenging conventional utility investment models, and reframing environmental harm as an economic externality rather than an unavoidable cost of progress.

The Project pushed for the replacement of outdated power plants and greater investment in clean energy—laying critical groundwork for the legal and policy frameworks that would later define modern climate advocacy.

Dick also pioneered Environmental Costs of Electricity (1990), recognized as the first U.S. study of energy environmental externalities. This research reshaped how regulators and courts understood the “true cost” of energy, integrating environmental harm into economic decision-making.

It was through the Pace Energy Project that the Law School became not merely a teaching institution, but a practical policy think tank, engaged in real-world reform, influencing regulatory proceedings, and training students to operate at the intersection of law, science, and governance.

It was Dick’s work here that helped bring national acclaim to the Law School’s environmental law program.

Leadership and Impact at Pace

In 1994, Dick became Acting Dean and later Dean of Pace Law School.

As Dean, his leadership was transformative. Some of his most notable accomplishments included:

  • Establishing the Law School’s Board of Visitors
  • Securing the development of a new classroom building
  • Strengthening international programs
  • Establishing and expanding the LLM program
  • Establishing the Law School’s Annual Fundraising Dinner
  • Instrumentally bringing the New York State Judicial Institute, the training center for all New York State judges, to the Law School campus

Most important to Dick was his relationship with his students. A 1999 graduating student, Alicia Menechino, published “A Tribute to Dean Richard L. Ottinger” law review article as Dick’s time as Dean came to a close. In the article, she described him as:

“a memorable Dean… acclaimed for his outreach to, and inclusion of students in all matters affecting the school.” He was further described as a “voice of reason,” someone who led with “compassion” and “integrity.” She noted that he was “an approachable Dean,” and someone who “wanted to ease our transition into law school”

Dick never lost sight of his students. He personally greeted entering students. He listened. He invited questions. He modeled accessibility in leadership. For Dick, it always came back to the students.

In Dick’s own words, “Students are what a university is all about. The greatest joy of teaching is to see our students grow and succeed. We so often learn more from them than they from us.” For thousands of students, he was not simply a former Congressman. He was Professor and Dean Ottinger.

In Dick’s own words, “Students are what a university is all about. The greatest joy of teaching is to see our students grow and succeed. We so often learn more from them than they from us.”

Ottinger Hall: More Than a Name

In 2013, the Law School’s classroom building, which he helped construct during his time as Dean, was officially dedicated as Richard L. Ottinger Hall.

Dick responded to the honor with humility and wit, noting:

“Such an honor usually is reserved for those who are deceased.”

During the dedication, he thanked faculty, staff, donors, students, and especially his family. He made clear the building was not about personal recognition — it was about a broader mission, stating that, “No one builds a building by oneself, or a law school either for that matter.”

During his remarks, he also invoked Opportunitas, Pace University’s founding motto, as central to the Law School’s mission, noting that when the Law School was created it was meant to be student-oriented, and providing an opportunity for a legal education to students and faculty of all backgrounds, income classes, and beyond. And, importantly, a school where justice and access to the law for all was imparted among students. For Dick, ensuring that the Law School remained true to this mission was paramount.

It was during these remarks that Dick noted how he appreciated serving with what he described as “like-minded faculty.” In his own words, he often described his time at Pace as a “privilege.” He felt inspired by his colleagues in furthering environmental protection and justice and most importantly, inspired to “help educate the next generation of lawyers to be the leaders in advancing the cause of justice in our community, our country and the world.” For Dick, that was what it meant to have his name on Ottinger Hall.

Today, Ottinger Hall stands as a visible reminder of a life devoted to justice, public service, and education.

Dick was widely considered one of the most influential people in the field of environmental law. Environmental law today, in its integration of sustainability principles, renewable energy frameworks, environmental cost accounting, international cooperation, and more, bears the imprint of his vision.

Scholar, International Leader, and Architect of Modern Environmental Law

Dick’s scholarship throughout his life further expanded his impact. He authored or co-authored more than 100 articles and numerous books on environmental law, renewable energy, sustainability, and climate governance. His work influenced domestic regulatory policy and international legal frameworks alike. He was also the recipient of many prestigious honors and awards, and a dedicated member of countless organizations where he imparted his wisdom and made an impact.

Dick’s influence extended deeply into the international arena. He was invited to lecture at the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the only U.S. professor ever so invited. He also attended several IRENA Assemblies in Abu Dhabi. He led the renewable energy studies of the Commission on Environmental Law of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and represented Pace at numerous IUCN World Conservation Congresses around the world.

His IUCN book on renewable energy law, edited with Professor Adrian Bradbrook of Australia, was launched at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Bonn, a fitting testament to the global relevance of his work. He was also a founder of the Consortium for Ecological Law, which supports students at Pace Haub Law in their participation in IUCN activities, further extending his commitment to ensuring that our students engaged meaningfully in global environmental governance.

Dick was widely considered one of the most influential people in the field of environmental law. Environmental law today, in its integration of sustainability principles, renewable energy frameworks, environmental cost accounting, international cooperation, and more, bears the imprint of his vision.

You can find more information on Dick’s tremendous body of scholarship, achievements, honors, memberships, and more below.

A Legacy That Will Endure

Richard L. Ottinger’s professional life’s work reshaped environmental policy in Congress. It strengthened international legal frameworks. It institutionalized renewable energy law. It created the Pace Energy and Climate Center. It built one of the nation’s top environmental law programs. It influenced generations of lawyers.

He leaves behind his beloved wife June, four children, and ten grandchildren, and a community profoundly shaped by his presence.

Dick’s legacy will endure – through the students he taught, the policies he shaped, and the values he embodied. And through the law itself.

Richard L. Ottinger Career Highlights

    • Member, U.S. House of Representatives (1965–1969; 1975–1985)
    • First Democrat elected to Congress from Westchester County
    • Chair, Subcommittee on Energy, Conservation and Power (1981–1985)
    • Member, House Committee on Energy and Commerce
    • Member, House Committee on Science and Technology
    • Founder, Environmental and Energy Study Conference (largest bipartisan, bicameral caucus in Congress)
    • Principal Author, Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act (PURPA)
    • Author, Hudson River Compact Act (first-term bill passed in his own name)
    • Early opponent of the Vietnam War; introduced Vietnam Disengagement Act (1969)
    • Co-founder, Peace Corps (1961)
    • Director, Latin American Programs, Peace Corps (1961–1964)
    • U.S. Air Force, Captain, Korean War veteran (twice cited for distinguished service)
    • Dean, Pace University School of Law (1994–1999)
    • Professor of Law (Environmental Law)
    • Co-Director, Center for Environmental Legal Studies
    • Founder, Director, & Chair Emeritus, Pace Energy & Climate Center (est. 1987 as Pace Energy Project)
    • Instrumental in bringing the New York State Judicial Institute to campus
    • Established and Expanded LLM Program
    • Richard L. Ottinger Hall dedicated in his honor (2013)
    • Founder & Chair Emeritus, Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI)
    • Founding Board Member, Friends of the Earth
    • Chair (20 years), IUCN World Commission on Environmental Law – Energy & Climate Specialists Group
    • ABA Section of Environment, Energy and Resources Award for Distinguished Achievement in Environmental Law and Policy
    • American Bar Association Lifetime Achievement Award
    • National Wildlife Federation “Legislator of the Year”
    • Honorary Member, American College of Environmental Lawyers
    • Over 20 awards from environmental and public policy organizations
    • Honoree, Federated Conservationists of Westchester County
    • Honorary Doctor of Law degrees:
      • College of New Rochelle
      • Mercy College
    • Richard Ottinger Hall dedicated in his honor (Pace Law School, 2013)
    • Board of Directors, National Counsel for Science and the Environment (2010-2016)
    • Board of Directors, A founder, former Chair and current Chair Emeritus (1997-2026), Environmental Energy Study Institute, Washington, DC
    • Chair, Board of Directors, LEAF (Legal Environmental Assistance Foundation ( 2000- 2026)
    • Former Member of the Board of Directors of the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE)
    • Founding Board member of Friends of the Earth
    • Bedford 2030 Board Member (1916-1920); Advisory Board Member (2020 to date)
  • Books (authored and co-authored)

    • A Tale of Two Cities: A Comparison of Air Pollution Governance in the Los Angeles Area of the USA and the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Area of China, Energy and Environmental Law and Policy Series, Kluwer Law International B.V., 2023.
    • UNEP Guide to Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Laws, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), 2016.
    • Energy Law and Development: Case Study Analyses, Edward Elgar Publishing, UK, 2013.
    • Handbook for Drafting Laws on Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Resources, UNEP, 2007.
    • The Law of Energy for Sustainable Development, Cambridge University Press, 2005.
    • Compendium of Laws on Energy for Sustainable Development, Cambridge University Press, 2005.
    • Energy Law and Sustainable Development, IUCN, May 2003.
    • Social Costs and Sustainable Mobility, Springer Verlag, 2000.
    • Social Costs and Sustainability, Northwestern School of Law of Lewis & Clark College; Springer Verlag, 1996.
    • Social Costs of Energy, Springer Verlag, 1992.
    • External Environmental Costs of Electric Power, Springer Verlag, 1991.
    • Environmental Costs of Electricity, Pace University Center for Environmental Legal Studies; Oceana Publications, September 1990.
      (First U.S. study of energy environmental externalities.)
    • Citizens’ Action — Vital Force for Change, Center for a Voluntary Society, 1971
    • Copartnership in Business, Harvard Law School, 1953.

    Book Chapters (authored and coauthored)

    • Options for Adaptation to Climate Change, in Adaptation to Climate Change, ASEAN and Comparative Experiences, World Scientific Publishers, 2015
    • Assessing Environmental Governance of the Hudson River Valley: Application of an IPPEP Model, in Implementing Environmental Law, Edward Elgar Publishing, 2015
    • Legal Frameworks for Emerging Technologies: Bioenergy, in The Future of Environmental Law, UN University Press, 2011
    • Copenhagen Climate Conference — Success or Failure?, in From Silos to Systems: Issues in Clean Energy and Climate Change, Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies, 2010
    • Biofuels Potential, Problems & Solutions, in Bio Fuels, Merging Legal Horizons, Amicus Books / ICRAI University Press, 2009–2010
    • Renewable Energy, in Beyond the Carbon Economy, Oxford University Press, 2008

    Selected Scholarship, Articles, and Speaking Engagements

    (Representative sampling of significant and recent works — Ottinger authored over 100 articles.)

    • Moving to Clean Energy — Will It Take a War?, Bloomberg Law: Energy and Environment, October 7, 2022.
    • Supreme Follies, New York Law Journal, October 4, 2022.
    • Plastics as a Serious Climate Threat, presented at the IUCN Academy of Environmental Law Colloquium in Brisbane, Australia, July 13, 2022; selected for publication.
    • Moving to Clean Energy — Will It Take a War?, Bloomberg Law, April 15, 2022.
    • A New Approach to Climate Change: As Business Risk Insurance, The Hill, December 16, 2016.
    • Expanding COP21 INDCs to Include Non-National Contributions, in Proceedings of the European Environmental Law Association Conference (October 2–3, 2015).
    • Energy-Efficiency, Strategic Planning for Energy and the Environment, Vol. 30, Issue 2 (September 2010); also published in Natural Resources & Environment, ABA Section of Environment, Energy & Resources, Vol. 19, No. 3 (Winter 2005).
    • Introduction: Copenhagen Climate Change Conference — Success or Failure, Pace Environmental Law Review, Vol. 27, Issue 2 (Spring 2010).
    • Energy and Environmental Challenges for Developed and Developing Countries, Natural Resources Forum (U.N. Dept. of Technical Cooperation for Development), February 1993.
    • Social Costs of Energy Use — Major Issues, Congress of the U.S. Office of Technology Assessment Worksheet on Social Costs of Energy Use, December 16, 1992.
    • Incorporating Externalities — The Wave of the Future, New Energy Industrial Symposium (Tokyo, Japan), October 21–22, 1992.
    • Pollution Taxes — The Preferred Means of Incorporating Environmental Externalities, 2nd Int’l Conf. on External Costs of Electric Power (Racine, WI), September 8–11, 1992.
    • Exporting a Solar Model to Other States, American Solar Energy Society — Solar ’92 Conference, June 15, 1992.
    • Incorporating Environmental Externalities Through Pollution Taxes, World Clean Energy Conference (Geneva, Switzerland), November 1991.
    • Energy and Environmental Challenges for Developed and Developing Countries, Keynote Address, United Nations Meeting on Energy and Environment in the Development Process (Beijing, China), June 1991.
    • Incorporating the Cost of Protecting the Environment Into Decisions About Electric Power, Perspectives in Energy, 1991.
    • The Use of Law to Incorporate the Cost of Protecting the Environment into the Pricing of Electricity, Report of the Advanced Seminar on Economic and Legal Aspects of Pollution Abatement (Moscow, USSR), September 17–23, 1990.
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