Pace University Law School Honors Professor Achinthi Vithanage with 2025 Ottinger Award for Environmental Law Excellence
Why the Ottinger Award Matters for Environmental Law Education
The Richard Ottinger Faculty Achievement Award is one of the most respected recognitions within the Pace University community. Awarded annually by the Faculty Development Committee in consultation with the Dean, it honors full‑time professors who demonstrate exceptional service to the law school, the legal profession, or both during the preceding academic year. Receiving the award signals that a faculty member’s contributions go beyond the classroom and have a measurable impact on students, the profession, and the broader community.
Professor Achinthi Vithanage’s receipt of the 2025 Ottinger Award underscores her leadership in environmental law. Her work with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the American Bar Association’s Section on Energy & Environmental Law (SEER) has helped shape policy, create networking opportunities, and provide real‑world experience for students. The award also highlights her role as Executive Director of Environmental Law Programs at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law, where she has built a curriculum that blends theory with practice.
Explore Pace’s Environmental Law Programs to see how the school’s offerings align with current industry needs.
Professor Vithanage’s Impact on Environmental Law Education
Professor Vithanage is widely recognized as a leading environmental and energy lawyer. She has been listed in LawDragon’s inaugural Environmental and Energy Lawyers list (2021) and in the 2023, 2024, and 2025 editions of the LawDragon Green 500. These accolades reflect her influence on both national and international stages.
Within SEER, she serves on the Governing Council (2023‑2025), heads the Law Student Transition Task Force, and participates in the Sustainability in Legal Education Task Force. She is also the founding co‑chair of the Environmental Law Society Network, a platform that connects students, scholars, and practitioners worldwide.
Her involvement with the IUCN Academy of Environmental Law, the Climate Change Collaborative Research Network, and the World Commission on Environmental Law demonstrates a commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration. These roles provide students with access to cutting‑edge research, policy discussions, and networking opportunities that are essential for a career in environmental law.
Students who work with Professor Vithanage benefit from her mentorship. For example, Harrison Bench ’27, a JD/MEM dual‑degree student, credits her guidance for securing two legal internships, joining the ABA SEER Environmental Law Society Network, and attending the IUCN World Conservation Congress. Such experiences translate into a competitive edge in the job market.
Opportunities for Students in Pace’s Environmental Law Program
The Elisabeth Haub School of Law offers a range of experiential learning options that align with Professor Vithanage’s vision:
- Internships and externships: Students can apply for positions with environmental agencies, NGOs, and corporate sustainability departments. Professor Vithanage’s network often facilitates placement.
- Advanced seminars: Courses such as Advanced International Environmental Law provide in‑depth analysis of global treaties and case law.
- Research projects: Students can collaborate on research for the Environmental Law Institute’s Environmental Forum or the Yearbook of International Environmental Law.
- Conferences and symposia: Participation in events like the IUCN World Conservation Congress or the Law & Society Association’s Climate Change Collaborative Research Network offers exposure to international policy debates.
These opportunities are designed to build practical skills, expand professional networks, and deepen understanding of environmental law’s evolving landscape.
Building a Career in Environmental Law: Lessons from Professor Vithanage
For aspiring environmental law professionals, Professor Vithanage’s career path offers several actionable insights:
- Develop a global perspective: Her education across Australia, Japan, China, Spain, and the United States illustrates the value of cross‑border legal knowledge.
- Engage with professional organizations: Active participation in SEER, IUCN, and the Law & Society Association can lead to leadership roles and policy influence.
- Seek mentorship: Building relationships with experienced scholars can open doors to internships, research projects, and job opportunities.
- Focus on interdisciplinary collaboration: Environmental law increasingly intersects with science, economics, and public policy. Working with experts from other fields enhances problem‑solving skills.
- Commit to lifelong learning: The field evolves rapidly; staying current through continuing education and specialized certifications keeps professionals competitive.
By following these steps, students can position themselves as valuable contributors to environmental law practice, academia, or policy development.
Next Steps for Aspiring Environmental Law Professionals
If you are considering a career in environmental law, the Elisabeth Haub School of Law provides a comprehensive pathway. From foundational courses to advanced seminars, the curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for roles in government, NGOs, corporate counsel, and academia.
To learn more about how Pace can support your goals, schedule a campus visit and meet faculty, students, and alumni who have benefited from the program.
Ready to take the next step? Submit your application today and join a community that is shaping the future of environmental law.
We welcome your thoughts and experiences. Share your experiences in the comments below and connect with fellow students and professionals.
