Three men’s ice hockey student-athletes signed professional contracts in the ECHL: Trevor Griebel with the Jacksonville Icemen, Blake Dangos with the Greensboro Gargoyles, and Casey McDonald with the South Carolina Stingrays. The trio join nearly 40 former LIU players who have advanced to the professional level, including AHL talent and NHL Draft selections, reflecting continued growth in the program’s development pipeline.

Ahmet Olmustur ’05 was appointed CEO of Turkish Airlines. Olmustur joined Turkish Airlines in 2000 and previously served as chief commercial officer and chief marketing and sales officer. Founded in 1933, Turkish Airlines offers flights to more countries than any other airline.

Lucas Hornung ’25 was awarded the 2026 National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship to support his research on the complex processes that drive cloud and rain formation. As a member of the men’s tennis team, he was named NEC 2024-25 Scholar-Athlete of the Year.

LIU announced the speakers for the university’s Centennial Commencement ceremonies. Alumnus Ray Dalio ’71, founder of Bridgewater Associates, the world’s largest hedge fund, will address graduates at the Post campus. New York Knicks broadcaster and two-time NBA champion Walt “Clyde” Frazier, a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame, will commission the Class of 2026 on the Brooklyn campus.

Long Island University will celebrate a century of impact with its Centennial Gala, an evening celebrating 100 years of academic excellence, innovation, and philanthropy. The event will bring together leaders, supporters, and the LIU community to honor its legacy while raising critical funds to expand student opportunity and fuel the university’s next century.

Birchard M. Taylor, the Great-Great Grandson of President Rutherford B. Hayes, appeared on Talks with Tweed, a podcast on the American presidency hosted by Tweed Roosevelt—great-grandson of President Theodore Roosevelt and Chairman of the Roosevelt School. Taylor discussed Hayes’ greatest achievements and what the enduring legacy of America’s 19th president can teach us today.

Cayden Smith, a second year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine student, was elected as the Student American Veterinary Medical Association (SAVMA) president-elect. Smith will serve as president for the 2027-2028 academic year.

LIU announced the 2026 Homecoming game will be on September 19 against Villanova University. In addition to hosting the Wildcats, the Sharks non-conference schedule also includes the Florida International University Panthers, Kansas University Jayhawks, and North Dakota University Fighting Hawks.