Travis Demers ’03 will call Portland Trail Blazers games on television to open the 2026–27 NBA season. The assignment follows seven seasons as the franchise’s lead radio voice. Demers will handle television play-by-play on a game-by-game basis.
Pioneering Researcher Tapped to Lead Immunology Journal
Physiology and Immunology Professor Xiaolei Tang was named Co-Editor in Chief of Critical Reviews in Immunology. Tang has developed novel therapeutic technology to treat or potentially even cure multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune diseases.
Historian Chronicles the Legacy of Brooklyn Paramount
Michael Hittman ’63 authored The Brooklyn Paramount Theatre: An Intimate Portrait, chronicling the history of the iconic venue, part of LIU’s campus since 1960. The theatre hosted legends including Ella Fitzgerald, Ray Charles, Miles Davis and Chuck Berry before reopening in 2024 following a comprehensive restoration. LIU will celebrate its 2027 Gala at the Brooklyn Paramount in May.
$175,000 Gift Establishes Feline Care Center at Lewyt College
A $175,000 gift from local veterinarian Dr. Gay Senk established the Dr. Gay Senk Feline Spay/Neuter Centre at the Lewyt College of Veterinary Medicine. The center provides hands-on training for veterinary students while supporting feral cat care and local rescue efforts.
Cherkaoui Named to Global Research Advisory Board
Mohammed Cherkaoui, Senior Vice President for Research at LIU, joined the advisory board of the Amity Global Research Hub, an international initiative strengthening research and innovation partnerships between the United States and India. Recognized among the world’s top 2% of scientists, Cherkaoui brings more than three decades of research experience to an initiative advancing collaboration in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, healthcare and emerging technologies.
Sopranos Stars Visit Campus for Centennial Author Series
Jamie-Lynn Sigler and Robert Iler, stars of the Emmy-winning HBO series The Sopranos, discussed Sigler’s new memoir And So It Is… as part of the Centennial Author Series presented by the Gold Coast Forum.
Internationally Renowned Conductor Teaches Masterclass
Acclaimed Philharmonic Director David Bernard taught LIU students during two seminar masterclasses hosted on campus. Bernard’s work has earned him international recognition as Conductor of the Year and Platinum Prize winner of the European Classical Music Awards Grand Prix 2025, winner of the Master Prize of the UK International Conducting Competition, and a multiple First Prize winner of the Orchestral Conducting Competition of The American Prize.
Forbes ‘A’ Rating Scores LIU in Top 16%
Forbes scored Long Island University among the nation’s strongest private colleges in its 2026 Financial Report Card, granting the university its top ‘A’ rating. The distinction places LIU within the top 16% of institutions. In addition to Forbes, the university’s strong financial position has earned ‘A’ ratings from Moody’s and the S&P Global Ratings, a division of Standard & Poor.
National Medal Winner Discusses Abraham Lincoln’s Legacy
Award-winning historian and chairman of The Lincoln Forum Harold Holzer 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. President George W. Bush awarded Holzer the National Humanities Medal in 2008.
Women’s Volleyball Takes Down Duke, Virginia Tech
LIU women’s volleyball claimed consecutive victories over Power 4 opponents, defeating Virginia Tech 3-1 and Duke 3-2. The Sharks win over the Hokies was the first over a Power 4 team in program history. LIU followed up the impressive back-to-back wins with a sweep at the Butler University Bulldogs at the Butler Invitational.