The Brodhead Watershed Association, one of the most well-renowned watershed associations in Pennsylvania, announced Dr. Alex Jackson ’08 as its new executive director to lead its educational mission to protect and improve water quality. Dr. Jackson is an organismal biologist who has conducted expeditions to Mount Whitney, Sequoia National Forest, the Mojave Desert, and rainforest ecosystems in Gabon and Suriname.
Long Island University Unveils Groundbreaking Project Offering Public Access to Digital Historic Documents
Students Conduct Research & Archiving Funded by $1.5 million Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation Grant
Brookville, N.Y. (June 3, 2021) – Long Island University’s Palmer School of Library and Information Science announced today the opening of “Digitizing Local History Sources,” a groundbreaking five-year project and website offering the public access to over 51,000 images from 40 participating historical societies across Long Island. The endeavor was funded by a $1.5 million grant from the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation.
Ranked among the “Best Archival Science Programs” in the country by U.S. News & World Report, the Palmer School offered 105 master’s and doctoral students the ability to digitize the documents since the project launched in 2017.
“Students of the Palmer School have become world-renowned archivists, historians and librarians,” said Long Island University President Kimberly R. Cline. “I am proud that Long Island University can offer them a unique experiential learning opportunity that will forever preserve the history of our beloved Gold Coast region and beyond.”
The collection documents the breadth of life on Long Island: from the diary of a 1920s schoolgirl to the daily calendar of a World War II school superintendent; from the daily account book of an 18th century blacksmith to advertising scrapbooks from the quintessential Long Island department store; from 17th century deeds to 20th century real estate agent records; from photos of early 1900s automobile races to scrapbooks documenting the destruction caused by the Hurricane of 1938; and from the daily life of wealthy Gold Coast residents to the treasured photo albums of Fire Island community members.
“Long Island’s historical societies’ archival collections are among their most valuable assets. RDLGF’s partnership with the LIU Palmer School of Library and Information Science offers students hands-on archival training while introducing our historic stewards to the best practices in handling and accessing their incredible resources. Having these collections available online will now easily expand research capabilities into Long Island’s rich heritage,” said Kathryn M. Curran, Executive Director of the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation.
The “Digitizing Local History Sources” project can be accessed by visiting this link. Suggested search terms for beginning to explore the collection include:
| Search Term | Result |
| Whaling | 3 journals from whaling ships |
| Girl | Multi-volume handwritten diary of a high school girl, 1923-1927 |
| Automobile racing | Photo albums of races by William K. Vanderbilt II |
| Hurricane | Photo album and scrapbook of the Hurricane of 1938 |
| Blacksmith | Blacksmith shop ledgers, 1900-1924 |
| Land | 18th century deeds and other items |
| Postcard | Hundreds of images of postcards from across Long Island |
| Club | Over 1,800 images relating to clubs of various kinds |
| Family | Over 4,000 images related to families |
| Glass Plate | Over 1,100 glass plate negatives |
| Landscape | Over 1,000 images of landscapes, sketches, and notes |
| House | Over 1,600 images related to houses and housing |
| Dog | 46 images with dogs |
For additional information, please contact Project Director Dr. Gregory S. Hunter at Long Island University’s Palmer School of Library and Information Science: greg.hunter@liu.edu
About Long Island University
Long Island University, founded in 1926, continues to redefine higher education, providing high quality academic instruction by world-class faculty. Recognized by Forbes for its emphasis on experiential learning and by the Brookings Institution for its “value added” to student outcomes, LIU offers over 250 degree programs, with a network of 270,000 alumni that includes industry leaders and entrepreneurs across the globe. Visit liu.edu for more information.
Long Island University Presents Roosevelt School Lecture Series: “The Three Roosevelts: Learning from Failures and Controversies”
The Three-Part Series to be Hosted by Roosevelt School Chair Tweed Roosevelt via Zoom
Brookville, N.Y. (June 2, 2021) – The Theodore Roosevelt School at Long Island University announced today “The Three Roosevelts: Learning from Failures and Controversies,” a three-part Hutton House Lecture series about President Theodore Roosevelt, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, and President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The lectures will be presented by LIU Professor Tweed Roosevelt, the great-grandson of Theodore Roosevelt and chair of the Roosevelt School.
Professor Roosevelt will deliver the exclusive series of three talks on each of the Roosevelts, focusing on the failures and controversies that shaped the character of these historical figures. The talks will be held monthly on Thursdays, June 3, July 8 and August 19 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. EST. Each lecture will be followed by an optional VIP virtual conversation with Professor Roosevelt from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., limited to an audience of 16 people to allow for private discussion. The series can be purchased for $55 by clicking this link, or purchased individually for $20 each. Each VIP virtual conversation with Professor Roosevelt can be purchased for $25.
“Theodore, Eleanor and Franklin Roosevelt set the standard for dynamic and thoughtful leadership that continues to be relevant in American society today,” said Professor Tweed Roosevelt. “Each had their own unique characteristics that made them endearing and trusted public figures. This lecture series explores the challenges that each overcame throughout their lives that defined their leadership styles and legacies.”
Information and details for each lecture are as follows:
Thursday, June 3, 2021:
THEODORE ROOSEVELT: LEARNING FROM FAILURES AND CONTROVERSIES
This lecture focuses on the personal and political setbacks that shaped the character of the 26th President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt (1901-09). TR stated: “It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed.” 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. EST, on Thursday, June 3.
To register for the lecture, please click here.
VIP CHAT ON THEODORE ROOSEVELT
An informal personal conversation and discussion with Professor Tweed Roosevelt related to the topic of Theodore Roosevelt. This opportunity is limited to 16 participants and will be held on Zoom from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 3.
To register for the conversation, please click here.
Thursday, July 8, 2021:
ELEANOR ROOSEVELT: LEARNING FROM FAILURES AND CONTROVERSIES
This lecture focuses on the personal and professional challenges that shaped the career of the longest serving First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt (1933-1945). Mrs. Roosevelt stated: “Do what you feel in your heart is right – for you’ll be criticized anyway.” 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. EST, on Thursday, July 8.
To register for the lecture, please click here.
VIP CHAT ON ELEANOR ROOSEVELT
An informal personal conversation and discussion with Professor Tweed Roosevelt related to the topic of First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. This opportunity is limited to 16 participants and will be held on Zoom from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 8.
To register for the conversation, please click here.
Thursday, August 19, 2021:
FRANKLIN DELANO ROOSEVELT: LEARNING FROM FAILURES AND CONTROVERSIES
This lecture focuses on the personal and political obstacles that influenced the 32nd President of the United States (1933-1945), Franklin Delano Roosevelt. FDR stated: “Take a method and try it. If it fails, admit it frankly, and try another. But by all means, try something.” 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. EST, on Thursday, August 19.
To register for the lecture, please click here.
VIP CHAT ON FRANKLIN DELANO ROOSEVELT
An informal personal conversation and discussion with Professor Tweed Roosevelt related to the topic of Franklin D. Roosevelt. This opportunity is limited to 16 participants and will be held on Zoom from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 19.
To register for the conversation, please click here.
About Long Island University
Long Island University, founded in 1926, continues to redefine higher education, providing high quality academic instruction by world-class faculty. Recognized by Forbes for its emphasis on experiential learning and by the Brookings Institution for its “value added” to student outcomes, LIU offers over 250 degree programs, with a network of 270,000 alumni that includes industry leaders and entrepreneurs across the globe. Visit liu.edu for more information.
Dedicated Public Servicewoman Appointed by President Biden
President Joe Biden appointed Patricia “Patty” Barron ’92 as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Military Community and Family Policy. She is responsible for a broad portfolio that includes policy, advocacy, and oversight of all community support to service members and their families. Her decorated career includes service as the director of the Family Readiness Directorate at the Association of the United States Army, the director of outreach, military family projects at Zero to Three, and the director of youth initiatives at the National Military Family Association.
Leadership Development Expert Publishes Debut Book
Kimberly B. Cummings ’08, ’13, a career and leadership speaker, coach and consultant, publishes her highly anticipated debut book, Next Move, Best Move: Transitioning Into A Career You’ll Love, in June. Since founding her leadership development company Manifest Yourself LLC in 2011, Cummings has provided organizations and universities with solutions to hire, develop, engage and retain women and people of color. Her work has been featured in Forbes, Blavity, MONEY Magazine, TeenVogue, Glassdoor, and Fox 5.
Palmer School Unveils Groundbreaking Archival Project
Long Island University’s Palmer School of Library and Information Science announced the opening of “Digitizing Local History Sources,” a groundbreaking project and website offering the public access to over 51,000 images from 40 participating Long Island historical societies. The endeavor was funded by a $1.5 million grant from the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation, offering 105 master’s and doctoral students the ability to digitize the documents.
Distinguished Educator Earns Leadership Role
Beautiful Gate Center, a developmental learning center for children and youth with developmental disabilities and autism, announced Jean Castelli ’90 as director of operations and training, where she will oversee center operations, human resources and community outreach for the organization’s South Carolina-based location. Castelli previously served as a teacher in the Long Beach City School District for 12 years, and as an administrator for Massapequa Public Schools for nearly 20 years.
Super Producer 9th Wonder Joins Faculty at Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment
Prestigious Roster of Educators Includes Award-Winning Saxophonist Sam Newsome and Renowned Baritone Vocalist Colin Levin
Brooklyn, New York (May 24, 2021) – Long Island University announced today that super producer 9th Wonder has joined the faculty of the Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment as a visiting professor and artist in residence, teaching courses in hip-hop history and the making of an album. He joins award-winning soprano saxophonist Sam Newsome, and renowned baritone vocalist Colin Levin, on the growing roster of exceptional artists who will provide hands-on instruction to students of the Roc Nation School.
“The Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment will welcome its inaugural class of exceptional students this fall who will be taught by world-renowned artists and educators, giving them practical insight and real-world, hands-on experience,” said Long Island University President Kimberly R. Cline.
9th Wonder is a legendary producer, CEO, DJ, and lecturer who has taught at Duke University and Harvard University. He began his career as the main producer for the group Little Brother, and has also worked with JAY-Z, Kendrick Lamar, Destiny’s Child, Jean Grae, Wale, Murs, Drake, Buckshot, Chris Brown, Rapsody, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, Big Boi of Outkast, Ludacris, Mac Miller, David Banner, and Mary J Blige. He has served as an artist in residence at North Carolina Central University, the University of Pennsylvania, and the University of Virginia. He is currently working on a research project in conjunction with the Loeb Library at Harvard University, chronicling the top 200 hip-hop albums of all-time.
“Music changed my life and opened doors for me in ways that I never could have imagined, so it’s only right that we impart our knowledge to help the next generation of ambitious leaders,” 9th Wonder said. “I’m truly honored to teach at the Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment and look forward to equipping these students with the tools to break barriers in their own lives and careers.”
Sam Newsome graduated from the Berklee College of Music with a degree in jazz composition and arranging. He then toured the world playing in the bands of music greats such Donald Byrd, Terence Blanchard and Lionel Hampton. Newsome has released 15 critically acclaimed recordings as a lead, and has appeared on over 40 recordings as a supporting musician. This includes appearing in numerous movie soundtracks such as The Inkwell featuring Larenz Tate, and Sugar Hill featuring Wesley Snipes. Newsome was also selected by the 68th Annual DownBeat Critics Poll and 14th Annual International Critics Poll as one of the top soprano saxophonists of 2020. Newsome has served as a professor in the Music Department at Long Island University for 14 years.
Colin Levin has performed at many of the top concert stages in the United States including his critically acclaimed Carnegie Hall debut in 2018 as the Baritone soloist in Mark Hayes’ Gloria presented by Distinguished Concerts International New York (DCINY). He has appeared with the Caramoor Festival, both Tanglewood’s Ozawa Hall and Koussevitzky Music Shed, Jordan Hall in the East Coast professional premier of Jake Heggie’s For a Look or a Touch, and numerous opera companies and concert venues around the world. He joins the Roc Nation School faculty in Fall 2021 after previously teaching at Rowan University, Concord Academy, the International Summer Opera Festival of Morelia in Mexico, and the Mason Gross School of Music at Rutgers University. Colin holds degrees from the Oberlin Conservatory of Music and the University of Illinois: Champaign-Urbana, and has served on the Voice and Music History Faculty with the Boston University Tanglewood Institute since 2013.
“We’re thrilled to welcome such an esteemed group of musicians to serve as lecturers at the Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment,” Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez said. “Their collective wisdom and versatility will be essential to ensuring that the students receive a well-rounded education.”
The Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment will prepare students for a wide range of careers in performance, entrepreneurship, all aspects of music, and sports business management. The School offers undergraduate degrees in applied music; music technology, entrepreneurship and production; sports communication and marketing; sports management; and vocal performance. Students will engage with university professors, alongside visiting guest artists and lecturers, while participating in immersive internships, ensuring they graduate with both hands-on experience and a network of professional contacts.
Located in JAY-Z’s hometown of Brooklyn, the Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment will provide Roc Nation Hope Scholarships for 25% of enrolled students. These scholars will graduate from the Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment debt free, and will receive individualized support and mentorship. The Roc Nation Hope Scholars will be selected from a pool of academically competitive, New York-based first-time freshmen with the highest need.
About Roc Nation
Roc Nation, founded in 2008 by JAY-Z, has grown into the world’s preeminent entertainment company. Roc Nation works in every aspect of modern entertainment, with recording artists, producers, songwriters and more. Roc Nation’s client list includes some of the world’s most recognizable names: from Rihanna and J. Cole to Buju Banton and Snoh Aalegra. Roc Nation is a full-service organization, supporting a diverse roster of talent via artist management, music publishing, touring, production, strategic brand development and beyond. Roc Nation Sports was founded in 2013, bringing the organization’s full-service touch to athletes across the NFL, NBA, MLB, and global soccer including Todd Gurley, Kyrie Irving, Skylar Diggins-Smith, Robinson Cano, Kevin De Bruyne and more.
About Long Island University
LIU, founded in 1926, continues to redefine higher education, providing high quality academic instruction by world-class faculty. Recognized by Forbes for its emphasis on experiential learning and by the Brookings Institution for its “value added” to student outcomes, LIU offers over 250 degree programs, with a network of 270,000 alumni that includes industry leaders and entrepreneurs across the globe.
FBI Agent Promoted to Director of Cyber Investigations
Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Christopher Wray named Brian C. Turner ’98 as the executive assistant director of the Criminal, Cyber, Response, and Services Branch. Turner most recently served as the as the assistant director of the Operational Technology Division at FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C. He served in the U.S. Army for nearly a decade and also taught at West Point before joining the FBI as a special agent in 2002.
Distinguished Professor Founds Brain Injury Clinic
Mayya Teytel-Cocozza, adjunct professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, founded Leading Innovative Multicultural Brain Injury Clinic, providing therapy for adults and adolescents who have sustained head trauma. As a brain injury specialist and speech-language pathologist, Teytel-Cocozza focuses on diagnostic and therapeutic services for bilingual and monolingual patients with communication and/or swallowing disorders, helping them regain their independence.