An analysis by Pace University finds it has contributed $359.9 million to Westchester County’s economy. University president Marvin Krislov recently released the study alongside Westchester Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins and Pleasantville Mayor Peter Scherer.

“We’re also proud to help our Westchester community succeed, by bringing jobs, people, and spending to the area and driving hundreds of millions of dollars in economic impact each year,” Krislov said.

Pace student Flutra Senturk said she can see the impact students have on small businesses in Pleasantville.

“During my time here, I have noticed the variation in new businesses that have opened… they have opened up restaurants that appeal to college students but also the families in the village,” Senturk said. “Our Flex Dollars are also something that keeps business booming at many of the small restaurants.” 

Pace also has connections to other businesses, such as the Jacob Burns Film Center. Every spring, for example, Pace’s “Producing the Documentary” course screens its premiere there.

“The Pace community — students, faculty and staff — is a central part of the economy of the Village of Pleasantville,” Scherer said.