Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University honored Kenneth Chamberlain Sr. During Social Justice Week

The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University, in partnership with New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and other dignitaries, on Wednesday honored the life and legacy of Kenneth Chamberlain Sr., a retired Marine and Westchester County corrections officer, with the dedication of the Kenneth Chamberlain Sr. Social Justice Reading Room.

The ceremony, which was part of the University’s sixth annual Social Justice Week, brought together students, faculty, elected officials, and community members to reflect on Chamberlain’s legacy and the landmark civil rights case that followed his death in 2011. Chamberlain was fatally shot by police at his home in White Plains after his medical alert device was inadvertently triggered—despite informing responding officers that he did not need assistance. The incident sparked national attention and urgent calls for reform in policing and mental health crisis response.

The new reading room, located within the Gerber Glass Law Center, is a permanent space designed to foster research, scholarship, and dialogue in the areas of justice, equity, and civil rights. It features a curated collection of books and legal resources, along with a commemorative plaque and photo exhibition.

Senate Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins secured the funds through a $300,000 state grant, making this dedicated space – and its mission-- a reality.

Kenneth Chamberlain Jr., who has spent more than a decade advocating for justice in his father’s name, delivered moving remarks about his journey from grief to advocacy.

“Justice is the vision. Accountability is the work,” said Chamberlain Jr. “Let this story break your heart—but let it also give you courage. Behind every statute is a human life that matters. This space isn’t just for my father — it’s for every family impacted by police violence.”

The federal civil case stemming from the shooting was led in part by Haub Law Professors Randolph McLaughlin and Debra Cohen, along with alumni Mayo Bartlett and Wali Muhammad. In 2020, a federal appeals court reinstated claims of excessive force and unlawful entry, and in 2023, the City of White Plains settled with the Chamberlain family for $5 million.

Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins, who spoke at the event, also shared remarks on the importance of preserving Chamberlain’s legacy.

“We’ll never replace Kenneth Chamberlain Sr., but each of us can help move justice forward — through education, compassion, and practical solutions,” said Stewart-Cousins.

Turning to Kenneth Chamberlain Jr., she added: “Your father’s name will not be forgotten. This room ensures that his legacy lives on — in purpose.”

President Marvin Krislov reflected on the significance of the dedication as part of the University’s broader mission.

“Today’s dedication is about telling a story,” said President Krislov. “And it is a story that must be told. The story of Kenneth Chamberlain Sr. is not just a tragic one, it is a call to conscience. It reminds us why we must continue to build spaces, like this Reading Room, that educate, illuminate, and advocate. This new space honors Mr. Chamberlain’s life and legacy. But it also stands as a testament to the tireless work of those who have carried that legacy forward.”

Horace E. Anderson Jr., dean at Pace Haub Law, reflected on the vision behind the new space and the moment it commemorates. He described the Reading Room as a space for research, reflection, and dialogue — a place where students, scholars, and community members can find resources and engage meaningfully with the issues of equity, justice, and reform that shape our world today.

“As we open the new Kenneth Chamberlain Sr. Social Justice Reading Room, we are approaching the 14th anniversary of his tragic death, which occurred right here in the City of White Plains,” said Dean Anderson. “But the impact of his death has resonated far beyond just our community. His story has reached audiences across the nation, inspiring a movement toward compassion, accountability, and reform in law enforcement and the criminal justice system.”

The event also underscored the wide-ranging support for social justice initiatives across New York State. In addition to Senate Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins, several elected officials attended the ceremony, including:

• New York State Senator Shelley Mayer
• New York State Assemblymember Chris Burdick
• White Plains Mayor Tom Roach
• Westchester County Legislator Jewel Williams Johnson
• White Plains Council Member Justin Brasch

Senator Mayer, who serves on the law school’s Board of Visitors, spoke about the role of legal education in fighting systemic injustice.

“Having lawyers who understand the fight for social justice is critical,” said Senator Mayer. “This law school is committed to preparing students to look up, see those words — justice and equity — and go out into the world ready to fight for them.”

New York State Assemblymember Chris Burdick, who represents the district that includes Pace Haub Law, commended the law school’s leadership and the reading room’s impact. He also presented a New York State Assembly Citation to President Krislov and Dean Anderson, recognizing their commitment to justice and legal education.

“This room is a powerful tribute to Kenneth Chamberlain Sr. — and also to the tireless efforts of those who fought for justice in his name,” said Assemblymember Burdick. “It’s a testament to the strength of this law school, its leadership, and the legal team who never gave up. We’re proud to stand with you in New York’s bold tradition of advancing justice.”

Professor Randolph McLaughlin, who co-led the civil case and brought that firsthand experience into the classroom, reflected on the meaning of the moment:

“The death of Kenneth Chamberlain was a tragedy — but from that tragedy, a movement was born,” said Professor McLaughlin. “Ken Chamberlain Jr. turned pain into purpose, and the creation of this room is a testament to that journey. This space will teach, inspire, and remind future generations of what justice requires.”

The event concluded with acknowledgments of the legal team, library staff, and community partners whose contributions made the space possible — ensuring that the legacy of Kenneth Chamberlain Sr. will continue to inform and inspire generations of future lawyers.