The Pace Energy and Climate Center (PECC) has announced its Executive Board for the 2025–26 academic year. The board is made up of three students from the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University, each bringing distinct backgrounds to their roles.
Frances Gothard ‘26, who has a background in International Studies, previously served as Co-Chair of the New Directions in Environmental Law Conference and Vice President of the Environmental Law Society. She has worked as a research assistant on environmental policy issues related to natural resources and national parks, externed with Consolidated Edison Company of New York’s Energy and Environmental Law Department, and is currently practicing as a student attorney with the Food and Farm Business Law Clinic. Gothard also serves as an editor for The Urban Lawyer journal. “Looking ahead, Frances is committed to elevating international perspectives on energy, food systems, and environmental policy to shape energy and climate law and advance equitable and sustainable energy and climate solutions,” according to PECC.
Carington Lowe ‘26 brings a science background to her work at PECC. She is Co-Editor-in-Chief of the Pace Environmental Law Review, completed an externship with the Land Use Law Center, practiced in the Food and Farm Business Law Clinic, contributed research on affordable housing that considers climate impacts, and is recognized as a Sustainable Business Law Hub Scholar. “Looking forward, Carington’s focus is on biofuel, nuclear energy, and identifying climate harm, with the goal of bridging science, technology, and policy to build a more equitable and sustainable energy future,” PECC stated.
Kenneth Sumter ’26 focuses his research this year on urban battery storage infrastructure aimed at supporting resilient cities with affordable energy access. According to PECC: “With a unique eye for design and storytelling, he channels his creativity into advancing clean energy solutions that connect people, places, and purpose.”
The Center operates under Executive Director Michael Hamersky with support from Energy Policy Advisor Emma Lagle. Student participation remains central to PECC’s mission; all law students are encouraged to join projects or apply for positions such as Energy and Climate Law Scholars. These scholars contribute research articles featured in PECC’s newsletter R.E.A.C.T., participate in legal scholarship activities, and work on practical projects addressing current energy challenges.
In addition to board members, student interns including Mercè Martí I Exposito LLM ‘26, Joseph Mayson LLM ‘26, and Clara Cusanelli ‘27 are contributing to ongoing initiatives such as thermal energy networks development and international advocacy efforts at forums like IUCN and COP30.
