Mathematics is important for people to know in their daily lives, and Doctor Lisa Fastenberg, Chairperson of the Mathematics Department on the Pleasantville Campus, helps students understand different topics such as Calculus and Algebra. Dr. Fastenberg has worked at Pace University since 2001. She spent her first two years at Pace teaching on the New York City campus. Since 2003, she has called the Pleasantville campus home.
Dr. Fastenberg teaches a variety of math courses, such as Developmental courses to prepare students for college-level mathematics. She also teaches Calculus and Algebra, as well as classes for advanced Mathematics majors.
In addition, starting in the Fall of 2025, Dr Fastenberg will teach Mathematics 112, “Voting and Representation.” This course covers topics such as apportionment, which involves determining how many representatives each state in the United States can send to the House of Representatives.
Dr. Fastenberg highlights what she enjoys about being a Math professor. “I get to connect with students. When students are struggling with math problems, I like going over the problems with my students so they understand how to solve the problem.”
In addition, she shares advice to students on what they can do to succeed in their Math classes. “Do your work. Read and follow the instructions when working on Math problems.”
Dr. Fastenberg highlights the steps that students can take when approaching a problem. She states that when students work on a Math problem, they should “try to solve it on their own. It is okay to make mistakes because that is how [students] learn.”
She also emphasizes the importance of seeking help when needed. “It is okay to ask questions. You can ask for help from your professor, your classmates and the Tutoring Center.”
In addition, Dr. Fastenberg is the Faculty Representative for Pace University’s Board of Trustees, which makes decisions on how Pace University is run. She shares what she enjoys about her position as the Faculty Representative. “I get to work with administrators and bring a faculty voice to the administration and the Board of Trustees.”
Dr. Fastenberg also highlights the activities hosted by the Mathematics Department. The Mathematics Honors Society recently had an Induction Ceremony for new members of the Society. Also, in March of 2025, the Mathematics Department hosted an event in which students viewed the documentary, “Counted Out,” which educates students about the connection between Mathematics and Democracy. She states that the documentary highlights “math equity and how to bring everybody into the math conversation.”
When Dr. Fastenberg is not teaching, she enjoys reading, exercising, walking, and spending time with family and friends.