Spring 2023 LIU Magazine

Changing the World with Science

Whether you are planning a trip of a lifetime, a return to a favorite destination, or simply looking for your next adventure, the LIU Alumni and Friends travel program is a great place to start your journey!

Long Island University has partnered with award-winning travel tour operators to provide exceptional travel experiences for all interests, schedules, and budgets.

UPCOMING TRIPS INCLUDE:

June: Portugal Adventure

July: Alaska Wilderness

August: Greek Island Hopper

October: Seine River Cruise

November: Live in Iceland

December: Europe Christmas

Market River Boat

We look forward to exploring, discovering, and learning together!

Start Planning Your Next Adventure at:

liu.edu/alumni/travel-program

While Long Island University is pleased to facilitate travel opportunities for its alumni and friends with tour operators that specialize in high-quality educational travel, please be aware that LIU does not conduct, manage or operate these travel experiences, or act as an agent for travelers interested in tours.

IN this ISSUE

Long Island University Unveils State-of-the-Art College of Veterinary Medicine Learning Center

Journalists

Hail to the Chief! LIU Partners with Museum of Democracy to Host Permanent Exhibit in White House Experience

PG 10

New York Governor Kathy Hochul Awards LIU a Grant of $10 Million for the Center of Excellence in Life Science and Research

PG 12

Dynamic Research Partnerships: University

Hosts Biobridge International Scientific Conference and Symposium on the Living Heart & Virtual Human Twin

Copyright ©2023 by Long Island University. All rights reserved.

PG 16

Global Music Icon Fat Joe Headlines Star-Studded Roc Nation Speaker Series

DEPARTMENTS

Program Spotlights PG 14

Academic Spotlights PG 22

Faculty Spotlights PG 24

Alumni Spotlights PG 26

University News PG 30

Student Spotlights PG 32

Athletics PG 34

Class Notes PG 39

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Send article ideas and letters to: magazine@liu.edu

PG 8

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Prestigious George Polk Awards Presented to Distinguished

LONG ISLAND UNIVERSITY UNVEILS STATE-OF-THE-ART COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE LEARNING CENTER

ong Island University unveiled another world-class facility on the Post campus this spring. The University held a ribbon cutting ceremony for the prodigious College of Veterinary Medicine Learning Center, which serves as the primary home to the New York metropolitan region’s only veterinary medicine program.

The state-of-the-art facility features large lecture theaters, classrooms, clinical skills laboratories, seminar rooms, and a small animal simulation suite including examination rooms, surgical suites, and a medical imaging center.

“The College of Veterinary Medicine has been a catalyst for Long Island University’s advancement as a top academic and research facility as part of Long Island’s life science corridor, and it would not be possible without strong support from Governor Hochul and Empire State Development,” said LIU President Dr. Kimberly Cline.

“We are very proud of our new College

of Veterinary Medicine facilities and connected clinical and research experiences which provide students with significant opportunities to become leaders in veterinary medicine.”

The opening of the Veterinary Learning Center is part of the University’s significant investment project designated for the College of Veterinary Medicine. LIU was awarded $12 million by New York State, as part of the state’s investment in transformational health care initiatives to help establish Long Island as biotechnology research corridor.

“New York State's investment in Long Island University College of Veterinary Medicine underscores our commitment to meeting the growing demand for state-of-the-art veterinary services and ensuring New Yorkers have access to education and training for the career path of their choice,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “These new facilities, equipped with the latest technology and staffed by experienced educators, will provide

students with the hands-on experience they need to become competent and compassionate veterinary professionals who can safeguard animal health and preserve the environment.”

The College of Veterinary Medicine is one of the University’s fastest growing and most competitive programs as the College is anticipated to have 450 veterinary and graduate students in the 2023-24 Academic Year.

“The College of Veterinary Medicine’s world-class faculty offers a comprehensive approach to veterinary education and prepares our students to succeed through a variety of measures, including experiential learning, interdisciplinary research, and mutually beneficial partnerships,” said College of Veterinary Medicine Dean Dr. Carmen Fuentealba. “Our program is designed to prepare practice-ready, entrepreneurial veterinarians that will serve the needs of the local and global communities.”

1 OF 4

LIU’s College of Veterinary Medicine is one of four veterinary programs in the Northeast – alongside Cornell University, Tufts University and the University of Pennsylvania.

A MONUMENTAL MOMENT

The ribbon cutting ceremony to open the College of Veterinary Medicine Learning Center took place this spring. The state-of-the-art facility now serves as the primary home to the New York metropolitan region’s only veterinary medicine program and provides an immersive experience in veterinary medicine through teaching and research.

GEORGE POLK AWARDS PRESENTED TO DISTINGUISHED JOURNALISTS

COVERAGE OF THE WAR IN UKRAINE, CORPORATE SUBTERFUGE, VICTIMIZED CHILDREN AND EXPLOITED MIGRANTS AMONG SUBJECTS OF 15 WINNERS

ong Island University recognized the winners of the George Polk Awards in 15 categories for reporting in 2022, citing three recipients for coverage of the war in Ukraine.

George Polk Award winners also unmasked the false underpinnings of a crypto currency empire; disrupted a private equity giant’s plan to glean huge profits from homes for disabled patients; examined lethal plundering of the Amazon rainforest; detailed the use of hapless migrants to help a governor score political points; revealed allegations of irregularities in a prominent university president’s scientific research; highlighted a growing prosecutorial tool that lacked scientific basis, and published the leak of a controversial U.S. Supreme Court ruling on abortion.

Two winners were honored for revelations that put an end to abuses in Alabama: a local police force’s scheme to enrich its coffers by bombarding drivers with phony traffic violations and nationally known companies employing migrant children as young as 12 in their factories. Others demonstrated that religious schools in New York were depriving thousands of students of a basic education, established that an inexplicable delay in police intervention contributed to the deaths in a Texas school shooting, and attributed the fatal shooting of a revered Palestinian-American reporter in the West Bank to unprovoked fire from an Israeli sniper.

The George Polk Awards committee has also awarded the second Sydney Schanberg Prize to an American-born British war correspondent who examined a deadly terrorist attack in northern Mozambique from multiple points of view.

“We were deluged with so many worthwhile entries it was difficult to choose among them,” said John Darnton, curator of the awards. “Interestingly, a lot of reporters went after large, thematic stories, like the role of private equity companies in buying up hospitals, private homes and apartment complexes. And the war in Ukraine produced superb war reporting, done at great peril.”

Long Island University Board of Trustees Chair Eric Krasnoff stated, “The 2023 George Polk Awards continues a rich tradition at LIU of honoring the journalistic excellence that continues to support equity and truth as pillars of a democratic society. LIU is humbled to help curate these awards that celebrate achievements built on a firm foundation of integrity and bravery.”

“The fearless work of these distinguished journalists proves that diligent reporting will always have the power to effect positive change throughout the world,” said Long Island University

RECIPIENTS OF THE GEORGE POLK AWARDS FOR 2022 REPORTING:

• Foreign Reporting: Staff for The New York Times The War in Ukraine

• War Reporting: Mstyslav Chernov, Lori Hinnant, Vasilisa Stepanenko and Evgeniy Maloletka, Associated Press Siege of Mariupol

• National Reporting: Peter Canellos, Josh Gerstein and Alex Ward, Politico Revelation of the Supreme Court’s Vote to Overturn Roe v. Wade

• Local Reporting: John Archibald, Ramsey Archibald and Ashley Remkus, AL.com Predatory Policing in an Alabama Town

• State Reporting: Kristina Cooke, Mica Rosenberg and Joshua Schneyer, Reuters “Undocumented and Underage”

• Health Reporting: Anthony Cormier, Jason Leopold, Kendall Taggart and John Templon, BuzzFeed News “Profit, Pain and Private Equity”

• Financial Reporting: Ian Allison and Tracy Wang, CoinDesk Exposure of Sam Bankman-Fried & His Cryptocurrency Empire

• Environmental Reporting: Terrence McCoy, The Washington Post “The Amazon Undone”

• Education Reporting: Brian M. Rosenthal and Eliza Shapiro, The New York Times Exposed Education System of New York’s Hasidic Yeshivas

• Justice Reporting: Brett Murphy, ProPublica “Words of Conviction”

• Political Reporting: Sarah Blaskey, Ana Ceballos, Mary Ellen Klas, Nicholas Nehamas and staff, Miami Herald Transport of South American Refugees to Martha’s Vineyard

• Foreign Television Reporting: Kavitha Chekuru, Sharif Abdel Kouddous and Laila Al-Arian, Al Jazeera English The Killing of Shireen Abu Akleh

• National Television Reporting: Shimon Prokupecz and staff, CNN Delayed Law Enforcement Response at Uvalde, Texas School Shooting

• Photojournalism: Lynsey Addario, The New York Times Death of a Family in Ukraine

• Special Award: Theo Baker, The Stanford Daily Raising Questions About a University President’s Research

• Sydney H. Schanberg Prize: Alex Perry, Outside Magazine ISIS Attack in Palma, Mozambique

President Kimberly R. Cline. “Long Island University is pleased to recognize this year’s George Polk Award winners for exceptional work that will be remembered over the course of history.”

The 2022 George Polk Award winners were honored this spring at a luncheon ceremony at the New York Athletic Club, following an evening seminar on LIU’s Brooklyn campus, “When Covering War Gets Personal,” allowing several winners to delve more deeply into their stories.

Learn more at: liu.edu/polk

1: The award for Foreign Reporting went to the staff of The New York Times for coverage of the war in Ukraine. 2: Brian M. Rosenthal and Eliza Shapiro of The New York Times were honored with the Education Reporting Award detailing the failure of New York’s Hasidic yeshivas to provide 50,000 boys with a basic education despite receiving more than a quarter of a billion dollars in public funds annually. 3: Staff from the Associated Press won the award for War Reporting for sharing horrific narratives and images during the siege of Mariupol. 4: Staff from the Miami Herald won the award for Political Reporting for covering the transport of South American refugees to Martha's Vineyard.

Photo Credit: Jonathan Singh

LONG ISLAND UNIVERSITY PARTNERS WITH MUSEUM OF DEMOCRACY TO HOST “HAIL TO THE CHIEF!” PRESIDENTIAL HISTORY EXHIBIT

ong Island University announced a partnership with the Museum of Democracy to designate LIU’s Roosevelt School as a permanent home to more than a million pieces of American presidential history. The University received a $100,000 grant from the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation to assist with the newly opened exhibit “Hail to the Chief! Electing the American President."

“Hail to the Chief! Electing the American President” highlights the democratic process, presidential elections, and the foundations of the presidency. Items from the Museum of Democracy, including memorabilia from past presidential elections, are on display in the historic Roosevelt House, located on Long Island University’s Post campus.

“Long Island University is committed to being at the forefront of civic education and serve as a leading institution for American presidential history,” said Long Island University President Kimberly R. Cline. “In partnership with the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation and the Museum of Democracy, this new exhibit will offer our students and Long Islanders a rare insight into our country’s history.”

The Museum of Democracy contains the nation’s largest and most comprehensive collections of historical and political campaign memorabilia, covering presidential campaigns from George Washington to the modern era. The collection also features material from major social causes and movements pertaining to freedom and democracy, reflecting the history of politics and political reform in America as well as central civil rights issues, including women’s rights and social justice.

“The mission of the Museum of Democracy is to ignite both curiosity and conversation around the concept of democracy in America, especially amongst younger generations,” adds Austin Wright, Chairman, Museum of Democracy. “The collection offers viewers unique insights into the prominent sociopolitical

issues facing the nation during each presidential election and we are thrilled to bring these artifacts to Long Island University in the first of many educational exhibitions aimed at inspiring students and the community to experience history up-close.”

Long Island University’s Roosevelt School offers immersive studies in international relations and diplomacy, public policy, administration, and leadership through a comprehensive range of degree programs. The Roosevelt School experience is defined by the excellence of the legacy of U.S. Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

“Through this display of American history, we will help to educate students and the public about the history of politics in America and illuminate central issues of civil rights, women’s rights, and social justice,” added Roosevelt School Director Dr. Andy Person. “We are honored to work with the Museum of Democracy on this important educational initiative, celebrating nearly 250 years of American democracy.”

Established in 1987, the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation primarily supports the study of New York State history. The organization’s purpose is to cultivate, foster and promote interest in the culture, art and traditions of our local history and Foundation leaders aspire to encourage the collection and examination of documents and artifacts.

“Long Island University's Roosevelt Institute is the perfect site for the Museum of Democracy; as it will engage faculty, students, scholars and the community in the study of our nation's political history,” said Kathryn M. Curran, Executive Director of the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation. “LIU is a proven partner with our foundation, and we are pleased to support this important and timely offering.”

“Hail to the Chief! Electing the American President” is open to students, faculty, alumni, scholars and members of the community.

“Hail to the Chief! Electing the American President” consists of rare historical and political campaign memorabilia, covering all the major presidential campaigns – including every president from President Washington to Biden. Exhibit photos courtesy of the Museum of Democracy. Photo bottom right: Kathryn Curran, Executive Director of Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation, LIU President Kimberly Cline and Tweed Roosevelt, Chairman, The

Roosevelt School, pose during the exhibit opening.

ong Island University’s position as a leader in research and innovation once again garnered recognition when New York State Governor Kathy Hochul awarded the University a $10 million grant. The award will help fund construction for LIU’s Center of Excellence in Life Science and Research, a state-of-the-art facility that further solidifies the University’s reputation as a national leader in the field.

The Center for Excellence supports research with high societal impact to advance the fields of pharmaceutical sciences, precision medicine and health care in the digital age. The University’s College of Science will house the facility in collaboration with Dassault Systèmes, a Fortune Future 50 company. LIU is the world’s first Center of Excellence in Life Science designated by Dassault, advancing precision medicine in the digital age.

"This transformative investment continues to enhance our profile as a leading national research institution and supports Governor Hochul's efforts to build Long Island's research corridor,” said Long Island University President Kimberly R. Cline. “With New York State's support, LIU was recently recognized by the Carnegie Classification as a high research activity university. The new College of Science Applied Research and Innovation Facility will leverage LIU's strengths in life sciences and global partnerships to innovate new scientific and medical breakthroughs."

The 40,000 square foot facility will be built on the Post campus in Brookville and is estimated to cost around $40 million. The College will house new majors in cutting-edge fields including artificial intelligence, digital engineering, and drug discovery and production. The building will also support groundbreaking life sciences research and will include incubator and accelerator space to house start up technology businesses who will commercialize innovation and discovery generated in the building, as well as leverage research from the College of Veterinary Medicine and the Arnold & Marie Schwartz College of Pharmacy.

“As we attract and retain top talent through our investments in state-of-the-art research facilities and infrastructure, Long Island is where the future is being imagined,” Governor Kathy Hochul said in announcing the award.

The governor added that the award, in conjunction with other higher education grants on Long Island, “will help create jobs in cutting-edge sectors, boost workforce training, and support nation-leading innovation right here in New York.”

LIU's new facility will support economic growth in the region, create jobs, contribute to research and development of new scientific and medical interventions, and accelerate Long Island's growing life sciences economy and attract private sector investment in biotech industry sectors.

The University’s extended and ongoing partnership with Dassault Systèmes, world leader in 3D design and engineering software, is in line with its vision to advance academic excellence through innovation, provide extraordinary and distinctive experiences to students, and create solutions for a sustainable global future. Forged in 2019, the partnership provides LIU students with hands-on experience using artificial intelligence and digital engineering technologies, and to collaborate on multidisciplinary research in the life sciences.

In 2021, the University opened a simulation laboratory that allows students to use Dassault Systèmes’ patented 3D, augmented reality and virtual reality software to conduct experiential research, education and training. The laboratory is used in several areas of study, including artificial intelligence, robotics, virtual reality gaming, cybersecurity, data analytics, and drug discovery and development. LIU also employs Dassault Systèmes’ cloud-based 3DEXPERIENCE platform in classrooms across the University.

“We are without a doubt at an inflection point,” Center of Excellence executive sponsor Rama Kondru said. “We predict that the next 10 years will see more innovation in life sciences than in the past 100.”

Above: Long Island University’s partnership with Dassault Systèmes provides students the opportunity to utilize 3D, augmented reality and virtual reality software to conduct high level research and innovative learning opportunities.

Opposite Page: New York State Governor Kathy Hochul announces that Long Island University is the recipient of funding from the Long Island Investment Fund, focusing on large-scale, transformative projects.

COLLABORATING IN RESEARCH: UNIVERSITY HOSTS SYMPOSIUM ON LIVING HEART & VIRTUAL HUMAN TWIN

ong Island University hosted the Eighth Annual International Symposium on the Living Heart & Virtual Human Twin. The event brought together the world’s largest gathering of experts dedicated to using virtual human twins in biomedical research, regulatory science and clinical care. The Symposium was held at LIU Brooklyn’s Kumble Theater.

The Dassault Systèmes Living Heart Project, started in 2014, has grown to be the leading initiative in the world focused on creating a digital twin of a human. The project delivered the first-ever whole heart simulation, sparking a transformation of medical research. This success inspired the subsequent creation of the Living Brain and Lungs.

In addition to Living Heart, Brain and Lung developments, this year’s Symposium featured a kickoff for the Living Liver Project, led through Long Island University’s Center of Excellence for Life Science in partnership with Dassault Systèmes.

“We were honored to host this gathering of global leaders who are transforming medical and pharmaceutical research as well as the launch of the Living Liver Project,” said Long Island University

Dynamic RESEARCH PARTNERSHIPS

President Kimberly R. Cline. “Our ongoing partnership with Dassault Systèmes offers our faculty and students unprecedented opportunities to participate in this significant research to find new treatments for a myriad of major health issues.”

The University’s growing portfolio of highimpact investigations, world-renowned faculty and dynamic partnerships are helping to shape the future of health care and life sciences.

According to Dr. Mohammed Cherkaoui, LIU’s Vice President of Research, “Virtual twins enable researchers to accelerate the development and testing of new therapies, devices and medications. Our Center of Excellence will serve as a research hub of this project—which ultimately enables more cost-effective, faster and safer development and delivery of public health care solutions.”

“Technological advancements such as clinical trial decentralization and the creation of virtual twins are transforming research and development, enabling unprecedented data-driven collaboration between all stakeholders, regardless of where they are,” said Rama Kondru, co-CEO of Dassault Systèmes Medidata and the executive sponsor of the LIU Center of Excellence in Life Sciences.

In addition to touring the 3DEXPERIENCE Demo Center and COE laboratory, participants were able to learn the latest information about the use of virtual patients and regulatory science, hearing the least from the FDA on the use of simulation for in silico clinical trials, learn best practices from members of the Living Heart, Brain, Lung and Liver Projects and directly contribute to the development of the virtual human twin.

BUILDING BRIDGES: FIRST-EVER BIOBRIDGE INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE HELD IN BROOKLYN

ong Island University hosted the first-ever Biobridge International Scientific Conference in the country. The event was held on the LIU Brooklyn campus.

The Biobridge conference focused on the latest research and advances made in regenerative medicine and brought together more than 500 world-class physicians and researchers focusing on orthopedics and sports medicine, skincare and women’s health and prophylactic treatment to prevent postoperative infections.

The event highlighted collaborative research frameworks between Long Island University and RegenLab in the areas of medical devices, precision medicine, regenerative medicine and the development of innovative therapies. LIU and RegenLab’s alliance will advance and accelerate the research priorities of LIU’s Center of Excellence in Life Sciences, recently launched by Dassault Systèmes to address the next challenges in health care.

“As the first conference of its kind in the country, this event brought many renowned research and medical professionals together to highlight the progress made in the field of regenerative medicine,” said Long Island University President Kimberly R. Cline. “We were honored to welcome this global gathering of researchers and physicians to our campus, keeping with our commitment to serve as a higher education leader in life science and health care research.”

Long Island University is in the top 7% of research institutions in the United States as designated by the Carnegie Classification. The University’s growing portfolio of high-impact investigations, world-renowned faculty and dynamic partnerships are helping to shape the future of health care and life sciences.

According to Dr. Mohammed Cherkaoui, LIU’s Vice President of Research, “Our ongoing partnership with Dassault Systèmes, as well as hosting events such as this preeminent conference, position Long Island University as a major force in health care research and training. We are proud to play a leading role in finding new solutions for the world’s most pressing health issues as we teach a new generation of students to become innovators.”

Founded by RegenLab, the Biobridge Foundation has organized international scientific conferences in prestigious venues including the International Red Cross of Geneva and United Nations Organizations worldwide. Established in Switzerland in 2003, RegenLab has continuously been advancing the science and clinical practice of regenerative medicine and recently established its medical device production and administration facility inside the Brooklyn Army Terminal in New York.

THE SYMPOSIUM BROUGHT TOGETHER THE WORLD’S LARGEST GATHERING OF EXPERTS DEDICATED TO USING VIRTUAL HUMAN TWINS IN BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH, REGULATORY SCIENCE AND CLINICAL CARE.

PALMER SCHOOL RECEIVES $1 MILLION GRANT TO PRESERVE LOCAL HISTORY

he Palmer School of Library & Information Science was awarded a $1 million grant from the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation to support the University’s “Digitizing Local History Sources” program. The funding provides students and faculty additional opportunities to preserve sensitive historical documents relevant to Long Island’s history.

“Long Island University is grateful for the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation’s continuous partnership and ongoing commitment to preserve Long Island’s illustrious history,” said Dr. Kimberly R. Cline, President, Long Island University. “This funding opportunity allows our students to further develop their archiving skills while enhancing their academic experience.”

Students enrolled in the Palmer School at LIU preserve local Long Island history through advanced digital technology to capture images of important historical documents. LIU students have archived documents from 46 historical organizations, including 75,000 images, amounting to a total of 4,600 gigabytes of data.

Since 2017, the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation has contributed more than $2.2 million to Long Island University’s historical preservation projects. The funds presented by the Gardiner Foundation have enabled Palmer School students to digitize materials provided by various organizations in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Students most recently preserved information from notable historical items, including Walt Whitman’s family bible.

"Years ago, the Foundation asked me what I saw as the greatest need for our historical societies. I had recently been to a historic site that was underutilized, and underappreciated. For years this organization had been maintaining an incredible resource of archival material that was virtually unknown. The Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation's mission is to advance regional history. I reached out to LIU and this project was initiated. Through the RDLGF Board's support and approval, the wealth of historic documents chronicling our past are now being shared, and the work of our historic stewards recognized," said Kathryn

M. Curran, Executive Director of the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation.

Above: Photo of the Whitman family bible cover courtesy of the Walt Whitman Birthplace Association. Photos of the Walt Whitman Family Bible are part of the Whitman Family Bible Collection in the Digitizing Local History project.

Right: The Whitman family genealogy page is located between the Old and New Testaments.

PALMER SCHOOL STUDENT & ALUMNA SELECTED TO STUDY HISTORIC ARCHIVES

Alexis Durante ’23 and Amanda Dorval ’22 were selected for a rare opportunity to participate in the “Winter Seminar on Papal Archives” program run by the Sangalli Institute of Florence. They pair studied Catholic archives in Rome with high-level scholars. Alexis was one of five currently enrolled students accepted to this program.

Established in 1987, the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation primarily supports the study of New York State history. The organization’s purpose is to cultivate, foster and promote interest in the culture, art and traditions of our local history. Foundation leaders aspire to encourage the collection and examination of documents and artifacts.

“Our students are highly skilled and motivated in the digital archiving process”, said Dr. Gregory Hunter, LIU professor and Project Director, Digitizing Local History Sources. “The added bonus is that Long Island residents benefit from this program, as important documents pertaining to local history are digitally preserved for all posterity.”

The Palmer School of Library and Information Science is the leading library science program in the New York City metropolitan area. It has the only New York State Registered Certificate of Advanced Study in Archives and Records Management (CARM), over 25 dual master's degree programs with New York University, and the only Ph.D. in Information Studies in the region.

75,000 images

LIU Palmer School students have archived documents from 46 historical organizations, including 75,000 images, amounting to a total of 4,600 gigabytes of data. Browse the collections online at: liu.access.preservica.com

GLOBAL MUSIC ICON FAT JOE

HEADLINES STAR-STUDDED

ROC NATION SPEAKER SERIES

hroughout the school year, LIU students enrolled at the Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment enjoy in-person access to many of the biggest names in the music, sports and entertainment world. Global icons and industry leading executives frequently visit campus as guests at the Roc Nation Speaker Series. Recent guests include global music icon Fat Joe, Fanatics CEO and Philadelphia 76ers owner Michael Rubin, NFL executive Marissa Solis and Roc Nation publishing executive Andrew Gould

The stellar group of industry leaders join a long list of household names in sports, music and entertainment world, including: NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, MLS Commissioner Don Garber, Roc Nation CEO Jay Brown, Hard Rock President Keith Sheldon, Sony Music Publishing CEO Jon Platt, NBA star-turned-pundit Jalen Rose, Roc Nation COO Desiree Perez and Puma’s Global Director of Brand and Marketing Adam Petrick.

In his remarks to students, Fat Joe cautioned them against the temptation of changing careers when they don’t see immediate success.

“You should never give up,” he said. “You’ve got to stay in the game.”

Michael Rubin, who leads the world's largest licensed sports merchandise

retailer in Fanatics, echoed Fat Joe’s exhortation for students to stay resolute and determined.

“I believe you can do anything you set your mind to. If you just focus on setting your mind to something, you can accomplish a lot,” Rubin said. “If you get the strategy right, the team right and you’re unrelenting, I think you’ll win all the time.”

Gould spoke with students about the legal aspects of the music industry. He shared his advice from his more than 15 years of experience in music publishing, offering insight on music contracts and royalty types. Gould’s previous publishing roles included a leadership role with Downtown and an A&R position at BMG; his signings include Andra Day and Lewis Capaldi and the placement of the Zedd/Maren Morris song, “The Middle.”

Marissa Solis, Senior Vice President of Global Brand & Consumer Marketing for the NFL, encouraged students to follow their dreams, work hard and focus on solving problems. Solis pointed to authenticity and hard work as hallmarks of her career 30-year career in consumer marketing that featured leadership roles at Frito-Lay, Pepsi and now the NFL.

“If you have an inkling of what you want to be… stick to that and then just be a sponge. Learn, talk to people, read,” she said. “There's problems everywhere in

this world. And if you come to the table to solve one of those problems, you're going to be super valued.”

Shari Bryant shared her inspiring journey from beginning of her career as a 16-year-old intern during the early days of Roc-A-Fella Records in 1999 to her current role as Co-President of Roc Nation Label.

“The level of training I got as an intern is similar to what you’re getting here at the Roc Nation school in learning all the different verticals,” Bryant told students. “Back then we didn’t have these opportunities for what we’re creating today.”

Renowned artists and industry leaders serve as guest speakers, providing valuable insight and inspiration to students enrolled at the Roc Nation School. Recent speakers include Fat Joe, Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum–selling artist, entrepreneur and philanthropist (opposite page) and Andrew Gould, Executive Vice President of Publishing at Roc Nation (top photo). Bottom Photo from left to right: Clayton Durant, Lenny Santiago ("Lenny S.") and Andrew Gould.

GRAMMY WINNER DJ KHALED

rammy-winning musician, record executive and entrepreneur DJ Khaled announced a full, four-year scholarship for a student seeking to attend the Roc Nation School of Music, Sports and Entertainment at Long Island University.

DJ Khaled joins a growing list of high-profile talent that provide scholarship opportunities for students at the Roc Nation School, including three-time, Grammy-winning artist Megan Thee Stallion, 2021 NBA Rookie of the Year and Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball and Grammy Award-winning audio engineer and producer Gimel “Young Guru” Keaton.

Khaled said he his fiancée Nicole Tuck have always shared a passion for using their influence to helping others in need.

“Even before we met each other, we both had a love for giving back,” Khaled said about the scholarship.

“Giving back has always been a priority in my life and her life. We're raising our kids to see that you have to work hard but also always give back and show love,” he added. “We have a team that works year-round nonstop on how can we give back, do more, uplift, inspire, motivate and hug all the kids in need. Inspire them to keep going and not just the kids, but also the families, the mothers and fathers and give out scholarships.”

TASHA B JOINS LIU TO BUILD BEAT BATTLE PROGRAM

Tasha B, a music producer, entrepreneur and host, is partnering with the Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment to build a beat battle program with the goal of bringing industry attention to an undiscovered generation of talented students. The acclaimed producer’s work appears on MTV, Showtime, BET and multiple Tyler Perry productions.

Applicants will submit a written or three-minute video describing their personal definition of success and how the scholarship will empower them to create the best version of themselves, along with where they see themselves in 10 years and how they plan to get there.

TASHA B

“Giving back has always been a priority in my life and her life. We're raising our kids to see that you have to work hard but also always give back and show love” — DJ Khaled

Above: Grammy Award-winner DJ Khaled is providing prospective Roc Nation students with a once in a lifetime opportunity.

SENATE MAJORITY LEADER CHARLES SCHUMER SECURES FUNDING FOR ROOSEVELT SCHOOL

enate Majority Leader Charles Schumer secured funding for the Roosevelt School to digitize and archive the personal collections of past presidents. The funding adds further recognition to the school’s work of preserving important national history, and making it more accessible.

In February, LIU announced a partnership with the Museum of Democracy to designate LIU’s Roosevelt School as a permanent home to more than a million pieces of American presidential history (read more on p. 8).

The school also recently partnered with the Reagan Presidential Foundation and Council on Foreign Relations to host a Model Diplomacy Simulation on National Civics Day. High School students participated in a Situation Room simulation with historical and hypothetical scenarios based on global issues, informed by content experts.

Additionally, the partnership between LIU’s Roosevelt School and Society of Presidential Descendants has garnered national recognition for:

• Founding National Civics Day, celebrated each year on October 27

• Awarding the prestigious Biennial Presidential Leadership Book Award to Ted Widmer, author of Lincoln on the Verge: Thirteen Days to Washington

• Hosting members of the Society as distinguished lecturers during the Roosevelt Conference on Leadership and Service

Last spring, Senator Schumer met with students from LIU’s Honors College to provide an update on news and events in Washington, D.C. Students spoke to him more about federal issues impacting Long Island. Senator Schumer also discussed federal relief funds for businesses and the economic climate for the future of Nassau and Suffolk counties.

Roosevelt School carries on the legacy of the 26th President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt, by offering studies in global relations, diplomacy, leadership and service.

Above: LIU leadership thank Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer for his continued advocacy of the University, most notably the Roosevelt School.

S&P ACKNOWLEDGES LIU’S STRONG FINANCIAL POSITION WITH A- RATING

tandard & Poor’s Global Ratings (S&P) improved Long Island University’s credit rating to an A- rating, the highest in the University’s history. In the report issued in February 2023, S&P cited stable enrollment, very solid operating performance, and a low debt burden as contributors to the elevated performance.

The credit rating increase was further driven by the University’s ability to develop and effectively implement mission-aligned strategies. S&P’s formal evaluation rubric includes non-financial criteria including: the strength of academic programs, student achievement, institutional quality, college affordability, research designation and other qualitative measures. The agency’s latest enterprise profile for LIU includes new academic programs, research, innovative partnerships, recruiting strategies, and competitive tuition among the University’s strengths and drivers of its market position and demand.

“In 2020, [LIU] implemented a new strategic plan that will guide the university through 2030. The plan includes several demand metric targets, specific targets related to the quality of education and research at individual schools, financial targets, and significant fundraising goals,” S&P’s Credit Opinion noted. “The university successfully achieved several goals it set out in the 2020 strategic plan, including surpassing its $200 million endowment goal early in 2018. LIU also achieved its goal to

achieve R2 Carnegie classification for its research activity in 2022, with continued growth in research activity expected over the next several years.”

Committed to maintaining high level programming at sustainable costs, the University has held 2% tuition rate increase for 10 consecutive years during a period when national and regional rate increases have been more than double that average. For the 2022-23 year, LIU’s full-time, undergraduate tuition is more affordable than Fordham, Hofstra, St. John’s, and Adelphi by margins of 44%, 33%, 17%, and 8%, respectively.

“The University’s credit rating is largely driven by our ability to establish a well-articulated strategic plan and demonstrate accomplishments toward institutional goals and priorities,” Vice President for Finance Chris Fevola wrote to members of the LIU community. “Fiscal 2023 is demonstrating solid projected operating performance and net asset growth as student achievement improves, facilities are expanded and modernized, and the University implements several strategic initiatives.”

Fevola pointed to academic and professional excellence across the board as a decisive factor in the ongoing financial success, writing: “The state of LIU’s exceptional fiscal health and agility is not possible without our dedicated faculty, researchers, and staff who are elevating LIU as a national teaching and research university.”

LIU Performance Metrics Moody's Private University Medians (2021)

SUMMARY OF LIU’S FISCAL 2022 COMPARATIVE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

PALMER SCHOOL STUDENT TO ATTEND NATIONAL ARCHIVES INSTITUTE

Palmer School Ph.D. student AJ Fernandez was selected to attend the Archives as Data Summer 2023 Institute at Columbia University, a program funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities. Fernandez will participate in the program’s Archiving Digital Record track and will attend workshops and learn from guest speakers from the fields of history, archives and data science.

LIU NURSING STUDENTS RECOGNIZED FOR ACADEMIC Achievements

More than 40 students from the Harriet Rothkopf Heilbrunn School of Nursing were inducted into the University’s Omega Nu chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, the international nursing honor society. Several students received scholarships and awards as part of the recognition ceremony. The Omega Nu chapter provides students with educational experiences, service opportunities and mentoring. In addition, the National Student Nurses’ Association recognized students enrolled in the LIU Brooklyn chapter with the Breakthrough to Nursing Award, honoring their efforts to raise awareness about mental health within the nursing community. This award celebrates students’ efforts to improve diversity initiatives and empathy for nurses.

Isabella Lomonaco

VETERINARY

TECHNICIAN STUDENTS RECEIVE Prestigious INDUSTRY AWARDS

Long Island University students enrolled in the Veterinary Technology program were awarded accolades for their individual achievements. Chloe DuMola was awarded the Veterinary Technician National Examination Scholarship from the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB). The VTNE Scholarship Award is presented to a graduating student who fosters a culture of leadership, diversity, equity and inclusion. Isabella Lomonaco was awarded the Metro New York American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (MNYBAALAS) Student Award, an organization committed to ensuring the humane treatment of animals while educating the public the importance of animal research in relation to medical advancement.

VETERINARY MEDICINE STUDENTS Win Awards AT NATIONAL COMPETITION

LIU College of Veterinary Medicine students participated in the American Veterinary Medical Association’s 22nd Annual Animal Welfare Assessment Contest. Long Island University was the only veterinary school in the country to place in the individual and team veterinary student categories. Congratulations to Magnus Yoshimura ’24, who received top accolades in the individual veterinary student category.

Chloe DuMola with her dog, Minnie.

FACULTY SPOTLIGHTS

Political Science Professor Provides Expertise at High-Level Institutions

Political Science professor Dr. Dalia Fahmy was appointed to the Board of Directors for the Center for the Study of Islam and Democracy in Washington, DC and the Academic Council at CMUGeorgetown University. In addition, Dr. Fahmy provided expertise related to American politics at various events on US Foreign politics and international relations, including at the United Nations’ Summit on Combating Ethnic and Religious Violence and conferences at Ibn Khaldun University and Georgetown University.

Acclaimed Artist’s Work Featured in American History Exhibit

The artwork of LIU professor and nationally and internationally acclaimed artist Dan Christoffel is on display at the Artwork Honoring American History exhibit held at the Manhasset Secondary School’s Gallery of Fine Arts. Christoffel’s pieces on display include paintings, drawings, and sculptures. The exhibit was held over a six-week period and included an artist reception.

Talented Professor to Lead Ballet Company

LIU Professor Nicole Loizides Albruzzese has been named as the new Artistic Director of The Ohman School of Ballet (OSB) and New York Dance Theatre (NYDT) of Commack. Albruzzese has performed and directed on some of the world’s most prestigious stages spanning 44 countries across six continents, including the 2014 Sochi Olympics. She has also danced for Queen Elizabeth.

Assistant Dean Publishes Book on Lifeguarding

Cary Epstein, Assistant Dean of the College of Education, Information & Technology, is the author of an upcoming publication, Lifeguarding For Dummies. The new book details aspects of what it takes to be a lifeguard and discusses the essential skills, certification and fitness needed to be successful. Epstein has 26 years’ experience as an emergency medical technician and ocean lifeguard and was awarded New York State’s “Lifeguard of the Year” in 2017.

Professor’s Expertise Featured in Prominent Publication

Associate Professor Orly Calderon authored a chapter in a prominent publication about social work. The book, Social Work in the Frame of a Professional Competencies Approach, serves as an introduction to readers who are learning the profession.

Fellowship in Immunology Awarded to Professor

Roc Nation School Director Selected as an AmericanScandinavian Foundation Fellow

Roc Nation School of Music Performance Department Director Colin Levin was selected as an AmericanScandinavian Foundation (ASF) Fellow for 2023-24, where will spend the summer collaborating with contemporary Icelandic composers to perform new works and build a historical record of contemporary Icelandic vocal literature. He will perform as a soloist with the Við Djupið Music Festival in Iceland, the Nordisk Sångfestival in Swede and make his recital debut in Reykjavík.

Xiaolei Tang, M.D., Ph.D., associate professor with the College of Veterinary Medicine, has been awarded a Careers in Immunology Fellowship from the American Association of Immunologists. Dr. Tang's research interests include regulatory T (Treg) cells and the immune system's role in tissue repair.

Prestigious Journal Highlights Expertise of Professor

LIU Pharmacy professor Douglas Jennings is the co-author of a prominent clinical study. The Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation published updated guidelines for the care of heart transplant recipients, which will be used by transplant centers worldwide and serve as an important resource in optimizing patient care.

LAYING THE BLUEPRINT FOR SUCCESS

PASSION & COMMITMENT DRIVE JUSTIN GRANT ’06 TO BEST SERVE THE LIU AND GREATER COMMUNITY

ctive alumni spanning across the globe are proud to be affiliated with Long Island University, but there is arguably no alumnus that embodies the spirit of Shark Nation more than Justin Grant '06. Grant, who is now the Executive Director for Community Development & National Partnerships at JPMorgan Chase, grew up in Clinton Hill, a short distance from the University’s campus in downtown Brooklyn.

Grant spent many memorable days of his childhood attending LIU basketball games in the late 1990s led by NBAbound Charles Jones. Citing the electric atmosphere and the prospect of a Division I basketball program down the block from where he grew up, Grant cited that his positive experiences on campus reinforced that Long Island University was the only place he wanted to attend.

Grant joined the campus newspaper, Seawanhaka, as a staff writer and advanced to editor of the publication. Grant, who wanted an enriching experience in addition to a strong academic footprint, credits his experience at the student paper and his internship placements assisted by Professor Dr. Ralph Engleman for preparing him to become a journalist, landing a position at Thomson Reuters as a reporter.

“It really was a thrill to be involved in campus media. My time at the Seawankhaka gave me the foundational skills that would carry me throughout my career. I give LIU a lot of credit for preparing me for a high-level job right out of school.,” said Grant.

After spending nearly seven years in journalism with a focus on finance and the capital markets, most notably the Bernie Madoff story, Grant eventually transitioned into the financial services sector, a move that Grant credits LIU with preparing him for.

“The liberal arts education I received at LIU taught me how to think critically and creatively, which is a skillset that can be applied across industries and in a variety of functions,” said Grant. “I always come back to the educational foundation and core concepts at LIU. If you can write well and be a good communicator, the sky is the limit.”

Grant not only found his niche, but more importantly, developed a passion to conduct community impact focus work. In his current position at JPMorgan Chase, Grant helps lead the firm’s Advancing

Black Pathways strategy, which seeks to strengthen the economic foundation of Black communities globally through targeted programs and investments aimed at growing wealth in historically underserved communities. Most recently, Grant conducted a black wealth tour across four major markets, Los Angeles, Dallas, New Orleans and Philadelphia, with the goal to provide the necessary resources to as many people as possible.

Looking back at his current accomplishments and his passion for community engagement, Grant credits his grandmother for her foresight and vision teaching him the fundamentals of long-term planning and the significant impact it can have on a family, lessons that he strives to pass along to many people as possible.

Grant remains active in the LIU community, currently serving on the University’s Board of Trustees and its Student Affairs Committee. In addition, he recently launched a scholarship in honor of his uncle to provide lead editors of the Seawanhaka with financial assistance, with the aim of helping future leaders benefit from the opportunities he was once afforded at LIU.

“I am thrilled to see what is happening with our campus community,” said Grant. “I am impressed with the evolution of our school since I graduated, and it gives me a sense that my degree will continue to grow in value over time. The investments LIU has made to attract the type of faculty and the students that we have will continue to grow the prestige of our community.”

Justin Grant

MAKING AN IMPACT AROUND THE WORLD

our years after graduation from LIU Global, Alejandra Molina '19 has quickly ascended as an award-winning founder and activist whose mission is to empower the lives of many around the world. Molina, who pursued her passion to provide economic opportunities to underserved communities through philanthropy and professional development, has co-founded multiple organizations that benefit communities around the globe.

Molina credits a big part of her success to her unique experience at LIU Global, the only accredited four-year bachelor’s education in the world that immerses students in over eight countries for a one-of-a-kind education. Originally from Peru, Molina knew early in her life – as early as age 14 – that she wanted to have her own business and wanted to pursue an immersive opportunity that would allow her to connect with as many entrepreneurs and leaders as possible.

“The LIU Global program gave me a once in a lifetime opportunity that no other university could have offered,” said Molina. “The classes were provided in an innovative setting, and I was able to take classes and pursue independent research studies that were of interest to me, including those geared towards entrepreneurship and business. There was never a dull moment as I was constantly adjusting to the different cultures and languages of each country. The benefit was that I learned to be accountable and responsible.”

Molina says that in addition to the eight host countries she was based in through her time in the LIU Global program, she was able to travel to 14 countries in total –with each providing a unique experience.

Upon graduation, Molina co-founded Beepboop, a language learning startup tech company, with the intention of providing a language learning platform to make languages more accessible to users and efficient through muscle memory and verbalization. She cites her experiences at LIU as one of the leading inspirations to start up the company.

“During my undergraduate studies, I realized that one of my biggest strengths was my language skills,” she said, who is fluent in four languages. “It gave me a new perspective and I wished more people were afforded these opportunities but couldn’t pursue them because of the language barrier.”

The company, funded by Google’s Latino Founders Fund and Techstars, has successfully recruited more than 150,000 users around the world to date and has high-level clients based in the United States. Most recently, Molina transitioned to a new venture by becoming a co-founder

at MetaBronx, a diversity-focused startup accelerator based in New York City that provides opportunities to underrepresented founders. She says her goal is to provide potential leaders in historically marginalized communities with the right environment to innovate and succeed.

“Most entrepreneurs find it hard to tap into different communities they may not be familiar with,” Molina says. “But my goal through MetaBronx is to be a bridge for these potential leaders. There are so many opportunities to route them to the right resources so they can accelerate their businesses.”

In addition to her successful business ventures, Molina does not forget about her past and is reminded about the opportunities she was provided with that others were not afforded in her home country. That is why she additionally launched a non-profit with her family based in Peru, WarmiShine, to empower women and through education and awareness related to proactive health, mental health and gender equity.

Molina says her goal through WarmiShine is to focus on women’s rights and to develop initiatives for young women to help them through their adolescence. The organization helps up to 500 young women a year and provides essential items and devices to assist with educational advancement.

Molina, in pursuit of greatness, says the key to her success is to keep moving forward and being resilient. As she says, “Always be true to your hobbies and passion. To be successful, it is important to think of yourself as a life-long student to have the mindset to grow even more.”

LIU GLOBAL ALUMNA ALEJANDRA MOLINA ’19 IS AN AWARD-WINNING FOUNDER AND ACTIVIST THAT IS DETERMINED TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Alejandra Molina

BUILDING A FOUNDATION FOR SUCCESS

experience at the Post campus was that our professors gave you a scholarly look and a practical approach,” said Jasen. “In terms of day-to-day applications, it is important to solve real problems for real people.”

Jasen, who took a special interest in law and international politics, indicated that his experience at LIU helped him accelerate as J.D. at Harvard Law School, graduating in the same class at President Barack Obama and Supreme Court Justice Gorsuch. In addition to pursing his law degree, Jasen credits his connections and established network at LIU to the beginning of his professional development, gaining employment at two Japanese companies: advertising giant Dentsu and international law firm Mori Hamada & Matsumoto.

Jasen is appreciative of his path and realizes his life would have been drastically different if it weren’t for his experiences at LIU.

“No matter how much you achieve on your own, it really is the opportunities that you have that can define you and what you are capable of ultimately achieving,” he said. “At the Post campus, there were specific people that were willing to take the time to work closely with me to give me honest and constructive feedback. That tremendous support was key.”

aymond Jasen ’88 has climbed the corporate ladder and ascended to the top of the financial services industry as the Partnerin-Charge of KPMG’s New York business unit. But with more than 30 years’ experience in the industry and playing an integral role of the daily operations of a “Big Four” accounting firm, Jasen does not take his success for granted and does not forget the origins that lead him to his current path.

Jasen, whose current unit encompasses multiple offices and approximately 600 tax professionals, reflects fondly on his time at Long Island University and credits the educational foundation that his mentors provided him with.

“The teachers that I had at LIU were phenomenal. What I loved about my

Jasen’s career catapulted in various capacities within the financial services realm, serving as the Executive Director and Tax Counsel for Morgan Stanley where he provided tax advice to the firm’s Fixed Income Division, Managing Director, Head of Tax Reporting, Strategy and Risk Control at Citigroup managing more than 140 personnel, and Deputy Tax Director and Senior Managing Director at AIG where he was responsible for more than 200 tax attorneys, accountants and staff responsible for various operations.

Most recently at KPMG, his current employer since 2014, Jasen takes pride in fundamentally redesigning the operational processes and procedures of the unit that he oversees, significantly increasing the profitability of the business while able to achieve top-line growth through a focus on data and analytics and bottom-line growth due to operational efficiency.

In addition to reflection, Jasen is also pursuing a new passion that continues to drive him and gives him a greater sense of appreciation and accomplishment –his faith. Jasen, who says he spent most of his life determined to be secular, has reacquainted himself with the Old Testament and is in the process of becoming ordained as a rabbi with the anticipation of a new path as a spiritual leader once he reaches mandatory retirement in his current position.

Looking back, Jasen understands the importance of guidance and giving back to ensure that those who were once in his position to succeed.

As he puts it, “For people to succeed, all you need to do is care and take a little time out of your life to give them advice. By doing so, that could make all the same difference to them that it did to me, and that is very important.”

Raymond Jasen

DEFINING SUCCESS THROUGH PASSION AND PURPOSE

RISING STAR SEIZES OPPORTUNITIES PROVIDED BY LIU TO GROW INTO AN ACCOMPLISHED LEADER IN DIGITAL MARKETING

ecognition often finds those who are the most passionate about their profession. For Maria Lopez ’15, her love for communication and connecting with people through a myriad of channels is what has led to her success.

Lopez has assembled an impressive track record through the first decade of her career as a rising star in digital marketing and consumer affairs. Lopez, the Director of Customer Experience at Diligent Corporation, a leading SaaS company providing a suite of solutions in risk, governance, compliance, audit and ESG with more than one million users, has held various managerial positions throughout her tenure, including in product and field marketing.

“As I matured into adulthood, I realized the importance of brands who go out of their way and go above and beyond to make a positive impact,” said Lopez. “The brands that do so mean a lot to me on a personal level, so I want to bring that same level of professionalism and commitment to my team and our customers [at Diligent] to set them up for success.”

Lopez discovered her love for marketing and financial ventures as an undergraduate at Long Island University’s Post campus. Originally pursuing early childhood education, she fell in love with her marketing courses at the University and made the decision to charter a path in the growing industry.

In addition to her studies and her role as one of the founding committee members and event chair for the University’s Relay for Life team benefiting the American Cancer Society, Lopez identified a key

moment in her academic career at LIU that catapulted her path to success, crediting LIU Major Gifts Officer Sean Collins for leading various networking events with alumni and ultimately introducing her to Sean Muzzy, another LIU alum, who served at the time as CEO of NEO@Ogilvy.

Through her introduction to Muzzy and the industry itself as a media planner at the Ogilvy branch, Lopez learned fundamental aspects of marketing that she credits to her success today.

“I would never have been able to pursue my dreams and be at my current career trajectory if it wasn’t for Sean Collins’ outreach and the team at Long Island University,” said Lopez, who credits both Collins and Muzzy as two of her mentors. After a two-year stint at Ogilvy, Lopez accepted a position at Diligent, who

provides board members and executives with the tools to identify risks and provide oversight for their organizations, in 2017 and has soared at the company ever since. Lopez has embraced several leadership roles along the way ultimately supporting Diligent’s mission. Diligent helps elevate organizations who are committed to advancing their governance practices by adding clarity to the complex risk environment and ultimately to deliver transparency to their shareholders or stakeholders.

One of Lopez’s best accolades to date was being selected to participate in Diligent’s Ambassador Program in 2019 where she was selected to work in the company’s London office, gaining valuable experience in international business that emphasized could not be replicated otherwise.

“The ability to connect to a global audience is imperative to good leadership in this industry,” said Lopez. “You need to be cognizant of different cultures and business settings. The lessons and connections I was able to make with customers and colleagues in the UK and beyond has been integral to my success because of that familiarity.”

Lopez remains connected to the LIU community, speaking to current students enrolled in the business school as part of the University’s mentoring programs. The message she repeatedly shares with students is to follow what they’re passionate about because they will set them apart.

“Follow your passion and lean into it; do not worry as much about what is popular and what is trending. If you follow your heart and lean in, it will make your journey that much more enjoyable.”

Maria Lopez

UNIVERSITY NEWS

Read more Long Island University news at: headlines.liu.edu

ON CAMPUS

University Welcomes Renowned Authors

Long Island University partnered with Theodore’s Books of Oyster Bay to launch a new Author Series program. LIU hosted a variety of authors and public figures to speak to students and the general public on campus, including New York Times Bestselling Author Nelson DeMille, presidential historian Douglas Brinkley at the Roosevelt House, Congressman Adam Schiff, broadcast meteorologist Janice Dean and journalist Mary Calvi.

ACADEMICS

LIU Announces World Class Hospitality Program

Long Island University announced a partnership with Las Vegas Sands and Nassau Community College in principle to create a new, comprehensive hospitality program. The strategic alliance will generate new career opportunities for students and graduates. LIU will seek approval for additional bachelor’s and master’s degree offerings that support in-demand careers in Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts.

ON CAMPUS

College of Veterinary Medicine Hosts Inaugural White Coat Ceremony

The College of Veterinary Medicine hosted its first White Coat Ceremony to celebrate the school’s inaugural Class of 2024. The ceremony serves as a milestone to students who will continue their studies through hands-on experience with affiliated and clinical partners in their final year of study at LIU while balancing the need for excellence along with passion and care towards its patients.

Tilles Center Hosts Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine

The Tilles Center of the Performing Arts hosted the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine as an evening of solidarity with the people of Ukraine. The exterior of the Tilles Center was lit up in blue and gold to represent the Ukrainian flag.

ON CAMPUS

Spence Howell Named LIU Band Director

Long Island University announced the addition of Spence Howell as Marching Band Director. Howell comes to LIU from Tuscaloosa, Alabama and brings an impressive array of experience as a performer and staff member in nationally recognized athletic band programs including The University of Alabama’s “Million Dollar Band.”

Emmy Award Winning Comedian Shines at Tilles Center

New York Times bestselling author and Grammy Award nominee Trevor Noah performed at the Tilles Center for the Performing Arts. The event featured an intimate conversation with Noah, formerly of The Daily Show, moderated by Emmy-nominated comedian, writer and producer Roy Wood, Jr.

ON CAMPUS

Hornstein Center Forms American Opinion Panel

The American Opinion Panel, created by the Hornstein Center for Policy, Polling, and Analysis at Long Island University, is building a nationally representative panel to provide a voice on critical issues and trends through opinion surveys. Studies from the Hornstein Center inform the public and policymakers about critical issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world.

TILLES CENTER

TILLES CENTER

Photo Credit: Jack Roman

EMMA ROBINSON

Class of 2023

Major: Digital Marketing

Emma, from Melbourne, Florida, has been the Editorin-Chief of The Tide for the past two years, publishing over 30 issues of the publication. In addition to excelling in the classroom with a 3.99 grade point average, Emma is a student leader serving in various leadership roles. She was an executive board member for the Student Body Collective for three years and co-founded and served as the first President of RISE, an organization that advocates for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors and prevention.

LIU STUDENT LEADERSHIP

JAEL NELSON

Class of 2024

Major: Biochemistry

Jael is a Junior, Biochemistry student in the Honors program. Her interests include listening to reggae music and watching movies. As an international student from Kingston, Jamaica, Jael saw that there was a need to increase awareness of Caribbean culture on campus. This led her to create the Caribbean Student Association. Through her leadership, she has organized numerous events that highlight Caribbean culture on campus including language programs, speaker series, and panels that discuss how to overcome barriers. Jael is the 2023 recipient of the LIU Women’s Gala Diversity and Inclusivity Award.

MATTHEW YOUNG

Class of 2023

Major: Nursing

Matthew is a Senior in the Nursing Program. His hobbies include video editing, baking, working out, traveling, and playing with his 4 dogs! Matthew was previously a Resident Advisor and Orientation Leader. He is also an active member of the Student Nurses’ Association, and is hoping to pursue his nursing career in his home state of Florida.

SHIVANI VAIDYA

Class of 2023

Major: Business Finance

Shivani is a Senior, studying Business Administration with a concentration in Finance. She is an avid basketball fan, enjoys a cold brew in the morning, is passionate about cooking, and enjoys listening to podcasts. Shivani is a member of the 20222023 Resident Advisor and Orientation Leader team. She has previously served in leadership roles as the Head Sector Analyst for the LIU Student Investment Fund, SGA Sophomore Governor, SGA Executive Vice President, and currently serves as the President of the Student Government Association.

MALINA MEDEIROS

Class of 2023

Major: Accountancy

Since the beginning of her journey, Malina has engaged in numerous community-focused opportunities such as the FirstYear Service Experience - a program designed to introduce incoming student leaders to community service and volunteer programs. Malina was elected as LIU’s 2022 Homecoming Royalty and began serving as the Student Chair of the Inclusion & Equity Council. In this role, Malina collaborates with her peers to educate the LIU community on celebrating the identities and values of all students. As a senior Resident Assistant and Orientation Leader, Malina has welcomed the next generation of Sharks and provided resources to acclimate incoming students.

REBECCA MARGOLIN

Class of 2024

Major: Business Administration

Rebecca has been a member and leader of the Honors College Program and Dean’s Scholars Program since the beginning of her LIU journey. Not only is she a member of these programs. Rebecca is the Junior Class Representative for the Honors Program Student Council. She is also a Student Ambassador for the Dean’s Scholars Program where she connects with prospective students. She has achieved numerous academic accolades, including the distinction of being named to the dean’s list, receiving the Distinguished Scholars Award and being recognized as a T. Denny Sanford Scholar. Rebecca is also part of the Nationally Award-Winning LIU Dance Team.

SIMRAN KOHLI

Class of 2023

Major: Biology

Simran has been a member of the Honors College Program since the beginning of her LIU journey. Simran is extremely involved in many aspects of campus life as she is a Pre-Health Club Officer, the CoPresident of Smile Train Club, a biology tutor, and chemistry teaching assistant. Academically she is a member of the Tri-Beta National Honors Society and performs biology research in the laboratory of Dr. Karin Melkonian. Her involvement, academic success, and hard work at LIU allowed for Simran to be accepted into many dental schools including NYU, Touro, UMD, VCU, USC, and she will be attending Stony attending Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine in Fall 2023.

ANTHONY VINCENT

Class of 2023

Major: Data Analytics & Strategic Business Intelligence

Men’s ice hockey forward and alternate captain Anthony Vincent was selected as a nominee for the Hobey Baker Memorial Award, presented annually to college hockey’s top player. Anthony scored a team-high 37 points for the Sharks this season, tallying 17 goals and 20 assists. In addition, he signed an amateur tryout contract with the American Hockey League’s San Jose Barracuda, becoming the program’s second-ever player to reach the AHL and first to sign at this level directly out of LIU.

WOMEN’S TEAM Wins THIRD CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP

The New England Women's Hockey Association (NEWHA) champion Sharks culminated their first season under head coach Kelly Nash with the program's first-ever National Collegiate Women's Ice Hockey Championship appearance. LIU finished the year with the program's first-ever 20-win season.

“I am so proud of this group,” junior Sarah Rourke said. “We have a lot to smile about and we are looking forward to what the future has in store.”

The season was also highlighted by Tindra Holm being named NEWHA Goaltender of the Year and a finalist for National Goalie of the Year. Additionally, two members of the LIU women’s ice hockey team were selected to play on the Sweden National Team in the IIHF Women's World Championship this spring.

“I am extremely proud of this team, there is so much to celebrate,” Nash said. “Our senior class and inaugural class made it to the NCAA tournament in just four years. There is so much promise for this program.”

Above: The women’s ice hockey team punched their ticket to the NCAA Tournament with a 2-0 victory over Saint Anselm in the NEWHA Championship game. Opposite Page Top: The men’s ice hockey team excelled on the ice and served the greater community with pride during the 2022-23 season. Opposite Page Bottom: The LIU men’s ice hockey team defeated nationally-ranked Alaska Fairbanks in February.

Pictured: Brandon Perrone

EARNS FIRST EVER NCAA TOURNAMENT APPEARANCE

MEN’S TEAM PERFORMS AT A HIGH LEVEL AGAINST NATION’S BEST

The men’s ice hockey team defeated two Top 20 teams, tallying wins over #12 Ohio State University and #20 University of Alaska Fairbanks. The Sharks twice faced off against the nation’s #1 ranked team and eventual NCAA Division I National Champions Quinnipiac and tied the Bobcats earlier in the season. The team battled #9 Northeastern University and #10 University of Connecticut in overtime nail biters.

For the second year, the Sharks had a nominee for college hockey's most prestigious honor when LIU forward Anthony Vincent was selected as a candidate for the Hobey Baker Memorial Award. Forward Billy Jarrett received the university’s first ever nomination in 2022.

“It's an honor. LIU has been an amazing opportunity for me,” Vincent said. “To be part of building an identity and culture here was so enticing. From the start, and all the way to the finish, I just hope I can help the program push upward and onward in any way possible."

Meanwhile, four Sharks are going pro. Austin Rook and Vinnie Purpura are headed to the New Jersey Devils’ ECHL affiliate, the Adirondack Thunder, while Adam Goodsir signed with the ECHL’s Worcester Railers, affiliated with the New York Islanders. Anthony Vincent has joined the San Jose Sharks AHL affiliate, San Jose Barracuda.

GIVING BACK TO A SPORT AND COMMUNITY THEY LOVE

In December, five LIU student-athletes assisted in skating, stick handling and shooting drills with a diverse group of more than two dozen youth players in Harlem. Weeks prior, groups of LIU hockey players also made their way to World Ice Area in Queens to volunteer.

Ice Hockey in Harlem (IHIH) is an organization focused on giving inner-city children an opportunity to play hockey — a sport that often comes with a high price tag. The Sharks skated for more than two hours and received a warm welcome from IHIH coaches.

“Hockey is not an easy sport to get into,” Bronx-native John Gormley said. “It's great seeing kids from all backgrounds on the ice.”

One of the IHIH coaches at the event praised the team’s high-character values, saying: “Having LIU hockey players here speaks volumes to what their program is all about.”

DANCE & CHEERLEADING TEAMS WIN NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

The men’s fencing team competed in its inaugural season, which featured decorated fencer and Tokyo 2021 Olympian Mo Elsayed, who finished third place in Epeè at the NCAA Championships.

LIU WELCOMES ADDITION OF ACROBATICS & TUMBLING PROGRAM

The University announced the addition of a women’s acrobatics and tumbling program and is just the eighth program to sponsor the sport at the NCAA Division I level. Two-time national champion Shelby Armstrong was named head coach where as a student-athlete at the University of Oregon, helped lead the Ducks to back-to-back titles.

FOOTBALL CONCLUDES SEASON WITH WINNING STREAK

The football team, under first-year coach Ron Cooper’s leadership, concluded the season with four consecutive victories defeating Duquesne, Central Connecticut State, Stonehill and Sacred Heart. The 2022 campaign marked the program’s first winning season in conference play since joining the NEC.

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LIU VOLLEYBALL PLAYERS EARN CONFERENCE DISTINCTION

Two LIU volleyball players earned top awards for their play during the 2022 season. Anastasia Scott was named the NEC Defensive Player of the Year, making history as the first player to receive the award three times. Amaris Smith was selected as NEC Rookie of the Year.

CROSS COUNTRY STAR SHINES IN COMPETITION

Ainhoa Brea won the NEC Championship Women’s 5K and was named NEC Outstanding Performer and All-NEC. In addition, Brea was named as the conference’s 2022 Fall Scholar-Athlete for women’s cross country.

LIU GYMNASTICS COMPETE AT NCAA NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Three members of the LIU gymnastics team represented the University at the 2023 NCAA Women’s Gymnastics Championships. Syd Morris, Ilka Juk and Mara Titarsolej competed in the NCAA Championships’ Los Angeles Regional held at the Pauley Pavililon.

WOMEN’S TENNIS TEAM PUNCHES TICKET TO NCAA TOURNAMENT

The women’s tennis team won the Northeast Conference postseason championship and secured an automatic spot in the NCAA Tournament with a victory over Sacred Heart University. The Sharks will compete in the NCAA Women’s Tennis Championships in May at Orlando, Florida.

SHARKS EARN TOP HONORS FOR ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

Long Island University’s studentathletes continue to excel on the field and in the classroom as 166 LIU fall student-athletes were named to the NEC Fall Academic Honor Roll for maintaining at least a 3.20 GPA and 57 student-athletes earned a spot on the Commissioner's Honor Roll for achieving at least a 3.75 GPA.

MEN’S FENCING COMPETES IN INAUGURAL SEASON

The men’s fencing team competed in its inaugural season, which featured decorated fencer and Tokyo 2021 Olympian Mo Elsayed, who finished third place in Epeè at the NCAA Championships.

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1970 s

1973

The National Academy of Medicine (NAM) announced the appointment of E. ALBERT REECE ’73 as Visiting Scholarin-Residence. Reece will lead work on a project focused on the state of the U.S. biomedical research enterprise that will identify trends, challenges, and solutions.

1974

HARRY DUNLEAVY ’74 released his new book about the emigration of Irish descendants to Latin America. Irish Immigration to Latin America honors the legacies of those who left Ireland to settle in Central and South America. Dunleavy is an expert on the matter and traveled widely throughout the region.

1977

JOHN POSITANO, ’77, ESQ , co-authored Dinner with DiMaggio. Positano has written extensively on law, the military, and surfing for the New York Daily News, the Huffington Post, and the Long Island Pulse. His law practice centers on federal matters, specifically as a litigation attorney in the Federal Second District of New York. Positano has won several awards for journalism, including a George Polk Award.

LONG ISLAND UNIVERSITY

CLASS NOTES

1987

DIETER WEINAND ’87 was appointed as the Chair of the Board of Directors at Umoja Biopharma, Inc., an immunooncology company that develops therapeutics to reprogram immune cells to treat cancer patients. Weinand is the former CEO of Bayer Pharma AG and has over 25 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry.

1980 s 1981

LOUIS E. VALVO ’81 joins Hall Booth Smith P.C. as partner with more than 35 years of experience in criminal and civil litigation. Valvo has previously served as assistant district attorney of New York, chief assistant district attorney of Rockland County, and partner at Koster Brady & Nagler, LLP, with many of his high-profile cases being featured on Court TV and Hollywood Justice.

1982

RITA JAIN ’82 was appointed to the Board of Directors of Provention Bio, a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to intercepting and preventing immunemediated diseases. Dr. Jain is a biotechnology industry veteran with more than 20 years experience in pharmaceutical development, including with ChemoCentryx, Inc., AbbVie, and Abbott Laboratories.

1990 s 1992

JOSH MARGOLIN ’92 , Chief Investigative Reporter at ABC News, won his 4th Emmy Award for outstanding edited interview on 20/20. Margolin’s daughter, Rebecca, is a Class of 2024 Honors Student and Dean’s Scholar in Long Island University’s School of Business.

Jeffrey Melnick ’92 was named chief financial officer of ETS, a global educational assessment and data organization. Melnick previously held leadership roles with EisnerAmper, one of the country’s largest accounting firms, and Marsh Inc., a global insurance broker.

RICHARD MISIANO ’92 has joined BUCKLER Securities LLC as Chief Executive Officer. Misiano has over 30 years of Wall Street finance experience. BUCKLER is a Securities and Exchange Commission and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority registered broker-dealer that specializes in providing long and short-term liquidity solutions.

1993

LASHAN BROWNING ’93 signed a deal with MTV Studios to lead an initiative to develop and grow content in cooperation with production companies owned by women and people of color. Browning has found previous success as executive producer of shows including VH1’s Love & Hip Hop Atlanta and Cartel Crew.

1995

CARY CARBONARO ’95 was named Senior Vice President, Director of Women and Wealth for ACM Wealth Services. Carbonaro, an award-winning certified financial planner and author, held prior roles with Goldman Sachs and United Capital.

1998

JOHN C. ARMENTANO ’98 was promoted to partner by Farrell Fritz. Armentano, a St. James, NY resident, is a land use and municipal litigation attorney. The Uniondale based law firm serves a wide range of clients’ needs in the New York City metropolitan region.

MAYSARA RABAH ’98 , Chief Technology Officer of Tabuk Pharmaceuticals, is featured in The Healthcare Technology

Report’s Top 25 Healthcare Technology CTOs of 2022. Rabah manages a technology system that functions in a company of more than 2400 employees, across 17 countries. He joined Tabuk Pharma in 2004 and has been CTO since 2012.

2000 s

2000

BIREN AMIN ’00 joins Pyramid Biosciences as its chief financial and strategy officer, where he will oversee the advancement and expansion of Pyramid’s company pipeline. Mr. Amin previously served as chief financial officer of Immuneering Corporation and spent two decades on Wall Street performing equity research covering biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.

2001

PAUL CONROY ’01 was profiled in the Atlanta Business Chronicle for his accomplishments in the Atlanta theatre community. Conroy is the founder and producing artistic director of Out Front Theatre Co, and he credits the LIU Theatre program with influencing his career and development as a theatre leader.

2002

BRIAN LOCKE ’02 was named as a “Veteran Champion of the Year in Higher Education” by G.I. Jobs. The publication, which featured Locke on the cover, is a leading source of job opportunities, education and transition assistance for veterans and military service members. Locke served in the U.S. Army for 23 years.

JOANNE PISANI ’02 joins the Connetquot School District as the Director of Student Services with the goal of creating a climate and culture that helps to develop the social and emotional well-being of all students. Pisani has served Connetquot schools since 2002 in various leadership roles including youth and family services coordinator, mental health

literacy coordinator, and director of pupil personnel services.

Governor Gavin Newsome selected KARTIKEYA JHA ’02 to join the California State Board of Pharmacy. Jha has been district director of operations at Omnicare – a CVS Health Company since 2019, and previously directed pharmacy operations at CVS, Nimble Pharmacy, and various health care technology companies.

2003

ROBERT CREAVEN ’03, ’08 was appointed Chief Operating Officer of Associated Medical Professionals (A.M.P) of New York. Creaven, a seasoned healthcare leader with more than 25 years of experience with physician organizations, will manage operations of A.M.P.’s growing clinical network in the Central New York region.

2005

SALOME JEAN ’05 was selected to WomenWeAdmire’s Top 50 Women Leaders of New York list. Jean, Chief People & Talent Officer for Big Brothers Big Sisters of NYC, provides leadership and strategic vision for the organization. The publication provides news and information on today’s women leaders in various fields nationwide.

DAISY DOMINGUEZ SINGH ’05 was recently appointed dean of libraries at the University of Maine. Before that, she served as associate dean and chief librarian at the City College of New York Libraries.

2006

CHRISTOPHER NELSON ’06 has been named the President of St. Joseph Hospital after serving as the Vice President of Operations at NYU Langone Hospital-Long Island. In his new role, Nelson will oversee all areas of operations at St. Joseph Hospital including the improved quality of care and patient satisfaction, and employee engagement and education.

2010 s

2011

CONOR REEVES ’11 was recently recognized among the nation’s top 1,000 next-generation wealth managers on the 2022 Forbes “Best-in-State NextGeneration Wealth Advisors” list. The honorees were all born in 1983 or later and are part of the new generation that is excelling in the industry.

JAVIER E. DAVID ’11 will contribute to CBS News streaming network, covering business, markets and the economy. David most recently served as a business and markets managing editor for Axios and has had an extensive career as a reporter, with prior roles at Yahoo Finance, CNBC, Dow Jones Newswires/The Wall Street Journal and Reuters.

2012

TAMANI WOOLEY ’12 continues to thrive in broadcast news, anchoring and reporting for Spectrum News 1 in Albany. Tamani is the morning features anchor and hosts “Weekend Buzz,” a weekly entertainment show. In addition, she has a restaurant segment called “On The Menu.” Outside of the newsroom, Tamani teaches journalism as an adjunct professor.

2013

JUSTIN TOPA ’13 was recalled by the Seattle Mariners to the team’s major league roster. Prior to joining the Mariners, Topa appeared in three seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers. He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2013.

2014

DR. RAPHAEL M. BARISHANSKY ’14 joined the Cambridge Consulting Group, a prominent firm specializing in paramedicine, as an associate advisor. Dr. Barishansky previously served as Deputy Secretary for Health Preparedness

and Community Protection for the Pennsylvania Department of Health.

2017

LAUREN GINSBERG DEVILBISS ’17 is the recipient of an ILoveMyLibrarian Award, a prestigious honor awarded by the American Library Association recognizing the accomplishments of librarians. Ginsberg DeVilbiss develops partnerships with outside organizations to engage students and their love for reading at the Wright Brothers School in New York City.

2019

ALEXIS MITCHELL ’19, ’22 recently published her second book, The Attic. Mitchell is a self-published author and educator promoting the importance of education and diversity. Mitchell’s first book, I WriteThereforeIAm:Exposed, was published in 2021. She is presently a high school English teacher, working with at-risk youths.

GABRIELLA VETRO ’19 received a grant through the Palo Verde Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers program. Wishes for Teachers, in coordination with the Fiesta Bowl, grants money to Arizona educators to enrich the lives of students through technology improvements and educational programs. Vetro is a speech therapist at Harris Elementary School in Mesa, Arizona.

2020 s 2022

Alongside current student Alexis Durante, AMANDA DORVAL ’22 was selected for a rare opportunity to participate in the “Winter Seminar on Papal Archives” program run by the Sangalli Institute of Florence. She studied Catholic archives in Rome this January with highlevel scholars.

2008

Internationally acclaimed poet PAMELA SNEED ’08 will perform at the Thresholds in Parameters exhibit held at the Phebe Conley Gallery in Fresno, California. Sneed will join 52 renowned female artists from five continents.

LIU ALUMNI SHARE

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YOU ARE OUR LEGACY

YOU ARE OUR LEGACY

YOUR GIFT HAS POWER

Long Island University has earned more national recognition than ever before because of YOU.

Long Island University has earned more national recognition than ever before because of YOU

Your support is crucial to help LIU students achieve their dreams.

Alumni leaders and friends—like YOU—advance the mission of the University through your successes, honors, and awards. We are proud of all you have achieved.

Alumni leaders and friends—like YOU—advance the mission of the University through your successes, honors, and awards. We are proud of all you have achieved.

YOUR GIFT HAS POWER

FUND A FUTURE

Scholarship funds play a critical role in recruitment, retention, and graduation. YOU can make a dream come true with your gift to the Annual Fund for LIU.

Your support is crucial to help LIU students achieve their dreams.

Please visit: liu.edu/donate

FUND A FUTURE

Scholarship funds play a critical role in recruitment, retention, and graduation. YOU can make a dream come true with your gift to the Annual Fund for LIU.

Please visit liu.edu/donate.