Volume 73, Issue 2 Wednesday, September 18, 2019 www.liupostpioneer.com Honors Director Dismissed Without Cause JANE MONTALTO

Dr. Joan Digby, English professor, was dismissed as the director of the Honors College as of Septem- ber 1. Digby received word of her dismissal from the director position two weeks prior to the start of the fall 2019 semester, and did not receive a direct response as to why she was being replaced. Read the story on page 2 The Wave’s First Female Operational Director

There is a new operational director at The Wave radio station. Samantha Uebel, the station’s first female in the role, will tackle the changes incurred by the OneLIU merger Read the story on page 7

Film Alumnus’ Show Airs on PBS

Some documentaries are made to share people’s stories with the world, and shine light upon situations to bring understanding to others. This is what one for- mer student planned to do with his original work. Read the story on page 11

Alumnus Takes on Historic Role as NBA Play-by-Play Broadcaster The Portland Trail Blazers, an NBA team, hired SGA Proposes Cultural alumnus Travis Demers (2003) as their new radio Shift at Post play-by-play broadcaster. He is the fourth ever radio Post 101 classes will undergo a “Sexual Respect Campaign” for play-by-play broadcaster in the team’s history. a better understanding of sexual assault and how to report it. Read the story on page 14 continued on page 4 2 NEWS The Pioneer Honors Director Dismissed without Cause BY ASHLEY BOWDEN CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Dr. Joan Digby, English professor, was dismissed as the director of the Honors Col- lege as of September 1. Digby received word of her dismissal from the director position two weeks prior to the start of the fall 2019 semes- ter, and did not receive a direct response as to why she was being replaced. “I do wonder why I was edged out and what they have in mind for changing the Honors College,” she said. Digby is a tenured faculty member and will continue to teach English this semester. Digby learned of her replacement from Vice President of Academic Affairs Ed Weis while inquiring about her contract stipend in mid-August. It is unclear who made the final decision concerning her replacement. Digby said she would have been happy to introduce administrative faculty to people in the National Collegiate Honors Council (NCHC) who have experience and are searching for open posi- tions. “Being excluded from decision-making about the future [of the honors program], I felt was really wrong,” Digby said. “We are extremely grateful to Dr. Digby for her leadership in the Honors College. She played a vital role in evolving the honors program into a respected Honors College. Dr. Digby remains a highly valued and respected professor,” Weis said, in response to an inquiry regarding the reason behind Digby’s dismissal. Having taught English on campus since 1969, Digby became director of the Honors Col- lege in 1979. “It’s been a fabulous professional life,” she said. “I’ve loved being at Post, it’s an incredibly wonderful campus to work at.” Digby admires the campus’ landscape and enjoys interacting with the local cats and horses. She also had a part in developing the equine studies minor. Digby is the president of the LIU chap- ters of Phi Kappa Phi, an honorary society for junior, senior and graduate students, as well as Phi Eta Sigma, an honorary society for fresh- men with a GPA of 3.8 or higher. Digby estab- lished a relationship with the National Park Service in the form of Partners in the Park, a learning program where students can experi- ence the great outdoors. In 2018, she received the Founders Award from the NCHC for her leadership in honors. With many changes coming to campus, including the addition of a veterinary medicine school, Digby was ready and willing to adapt the honors program to accommodate the new students and majors. In 2018, she came up with a way for students in the fine and performing arts departments to complete their tutorials and theses with a reduced number of credits. Digby’s new office is 209 in Winnick House. “Of course, I’m always glad to talk with my stu- ASHLEY BOWDEN dents, and I know a lot of my students who are Fr. L: Dr. Joan Digby, English professor, and Tracy Chirsty, Honors College secretary continued on page 5 September 18, 2019 BOARD OF EDITORS 3 Jada Butler & Ashley Bowden Events this Week Co-Editor-In-Chief Wednesday, September 18 Saturday – September 21 Shannon Miller • “Manmade” Photo Exhibit Reception | 5 p.m. • Home Football Game & Tailgate | 1 p.m. News Editor Photo Club President Michael DeCristo will show Students can cheer on the Sharks at the Bethpage Managing Editor his first solo exhibition in the S.A.L Gallery. Federal Credit Union Stadium as they face off against the Sacred Heart Pioneers Dylan Valic • Pokemon Betektiv Pikachu | 9 p.m. Features Editor Sponsored by the Student Activities Board, the Sunday – September 22 film Pokemon Betektiv Pikachu will be showing Jack Georgis at Gold Coast Cinema in Hillwood Commons. • Pokemon Betektiv Pikachu | 3 p.m. & 9 p.m. Arts & Entertainment Editor Sponsored by the Student Activities Board, the Online Editor Thursday – September 19 film Pokemon Betektiv Pikachu will be showing Newsletter Editor at Gold Coast Cinema in Hillwood Commons. • Positivity Bake Sale | 12:30 p.m. Ida Ynner Lagerqvist Be The Change Club is hosting a bake sale in Sports Editor Hillwood Commons to raise money for the Photo Editor Challenge Day Organization. Amanda Desens • Care Kits for the Homeless | 12:45 p.m. Assistant Photo Editor Students can stop by Hillwood Commons room 110 to donate materials. Josie Rerecich Copy Editor • Wild ’N Out | 7 p.m.- 11 p.m. Students are invited to join the Black Student Samantha Samant Union in the End Zone for a night of laughter and Promotions Manager a comedy battle. Business Manager

Friday – September 20 Christopher Sollenne Circulation Manager • Grit ‘N Wit | 12:30 p.m. An event where “tough isn’t enough.” Teams of Jane Montalto five can register for $10 at the campus concierge Illustrator

STAFF WRITERS Correction: James Bonner Jennifer Chavez In the Sept. 11 issue story “Signs Show Mascot was Chosen Before Survey,” The Pioneer Travis Fortunas misrepresented Adam Pilzer, a senior health information and management major, as the 2019- Alex Espinosa 2020 President of SGA. The actual SGA President is Elise Person Ashley Rodriguez. We regret the error and have edited our story on liupostpioneer.com to Chanel Lubsey reflect this change.

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thepioneernews The Pioneer Subscribe to our newsletter. Get the news delivered to @liu_postpioneer LIU Post Pioneer your inbox before it hits the stands! Submit your emails to @liupostpioneer liupostpioneer.com [email protected] Send your feedback to: [email protected] DISCLAIMER: The Pioneer ISSN 2471-4909 (print) is published weekly during the fall and spring academic semesters. All students are invited to join. Staff meetings are on Mondays at 12:30p.m. Contact The Pioneer at: The Pioneer, Hillwood Commons, 2nd floor, University, LIU Post Campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville, ,11548; [email protected]. Diverse views are presented in The Pioneer and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors or official policies of the university. Copyright © 2019 The Pioneer, All Rights Reserved. All materials in The Pioneer are protected by United States copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published or broadcast without prior written permission of The Pioneer. 4 NEWS The Pioneer SGA Proposes Cultural Shift at Post BY JADA BUTLER, JAMES BONNER CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, STAFF WRITER

Starting in the fall 2019 semester, the Post Foundations class will be getting a new lesson in sexual assault awareness. The spring 2019 Student Government Association came up with a new program, the Sexual Respect Campaign, to educate the fresh- man class on how to define con- sent, sexual harassment, and sexual assault and on what resources are available to students facing these issues. SGA brought the idea to leaders of the Post Foundations (POST The fall 2019 peer mentors with Dr. John Lutz, training for the Post 101 presentations 101) classes and the Center for Healthy Living in the spring 2019 semester. “It was a great idea and ways they can talk about this mentor since spring 2018, and she means— if I have to tap-dance, coming from student leaders too,” she said. feels strongly of helping freshmen I’m not good at it, but I’ll try,” taking the initiative. We agreed to The SGA created a power point adjust. “A lot of people go into Schwartz said. “There’s no other facilitate whatever they want to detailing everything students college having learned conflict- way. We have to do what we feel is do,” said Dr. John Lutz, English need to know, including the LIU ing things or [have] certain mis- right for the students.” professor and chair of the First- Student Bill of Rights. The 2019- conceptions in regards to sexual The first Post 101 presentations Year Experience Committee. “I was 2020 peer mentors and Post 101 respect.” begins Wednesday, Sept. 18. The very glad to make a place in the instructors will implement the Ludwig finds that schools with next step after the first year of the curriculum of Post 101, which is power point presentation, not the minimal coverage leave students program, according to Rodriguez, the transition to the college cul- SGA. Instead, the SGA will table in ignorant, which can be danger- is to bring the presentation beyond ture.” Hillwood Commons periodically ous. “Students need to know how Post 101 and to the upperclassmen. Faculty discuss the topic of and continue the conversation of to keep themselves safe as well as “The power point should be shared sexual assault and Title IX - a the campaign, but won’t be directly how to make sure they don’t end with all students,” she said. “Es- federal law that guarantees that no involved in the training or teach- up harming someone else,” she pecially with Greek Life and club person in the U.S. can be excluded ing. said. training as well.” from participation in, be denied “We’re not equipped [to teach]. Schwartz also stressed the the benefits of, or be subjected to But we ensured that the power importance of this program. “The discrimination under any point had resources,” Rodriguez bottom line is, we’re here for the education program or activity said. “We worked closely with the students and whatever that based on their sex - during fresh- Center for Healthy Living and fac- man orientation each year, but in ulty to ensure we aren’t putting out less detail than the new program false information.” LIU Cares Hosts will, according to Lutz. Lynne Schwartz, director of Lutz applauded the SGA’s the Center for Healthy Living, will initiative. “I took the SGA’s word take over the training. The training Hurricane Relief Drive for it when they said it’s impor- is similar to what resident assis- BY ALEXANDER ESPINOSA and much of the land itself was tant,” he said. “They saw a deficit tants go through undergo IDS 100, STAFF WRITER completely submerged beneath the and they decided to make changes where they learn are taught lead- ocean’s waves. to the culture. Here are the norms ership and public speaking skills. In light of the destruction to Members of the LIU Cares that are acceptable, and here is “We want them to be comfortable the Bahamas caused by Hurricane program handed out a list of items where we have zero tolerance for with the material and to talk about Dorian, LIU Cares is hosting a that different relief centers have this thing, and there is a great need it with sensibility,” Lutz said. hurricane relief drive for the week requested in order to give what- for this.” Their training this year in- of Sept. 16-20. ever aid they can to the hurricane Many students are unaware of cluded learning about bystander The relief was created in hopes victims. Students can pick up a what constitutes sexual assault, a intervention— when you see that the campus community, as copy of the list at the Campus Con- harsh reality that SGA President something, say something— and well as the larger community cierge. Ashley Rodriguez finds astound- “Direct, Delegate and Distract,” a outside the campus, could come Beginning Monday, Sept. 23, ing. “There is a lot unknown across program geared towards freshmen together during this time to donate LIU Cares will hold a drive to the board. Most people hear sexual to help prevent sexual harassment as many items as possible to help collect these items. Students in- assault and they think rape, but it and assault, according to Schwartz. the survivors of Hurricane Dorian, terested in more information can isn’t just that. There are so many There are 21 peer mentors under- according to Julia Pagano, asso- anticipate social media posts and different forms of sexual assault going training this fall semester. ciate director of Promise. In the flyers about the event. Residential and harassment. There are differ- Nicole Ludwig, a junior psy- Bahamas, a number of homes and assistants will also inform students ent types of outlets for students chology major, has been a peer businesses were destroyed about the relief. September 18, 2019 NEWS 5 Honors Director Dismissed without Cause “We are very excited about the scientific been in terms of your requirements.” The new research, community engagement, and public directors will occupy Winnick House office 126. policy opportunities that they can facilitate for As for measures taken to ensure honors Honors students,” Weis said in regards to the students have a smooth transition, Christy’s new directors. Hanley and Butts were informed position as secretary remains unaffected. “I of their new positions on Sunday, Sept. 1. don’t know if or how it could change,” she said. “We look forward to a productive and excit- Christy has worked with Digby for over 22 ing year of honors courses and events,” Hanley years and served as co-director of the honors wrote in an email sent out to honors students program in the past. on Wednesday, Sept. 11. “While you have been “As long as I’m here, I will continue to help settling back to school, or settling into col- the honors students and deal with situations as lege for the first time we’ve been planning for I always have until I am told otherwise,” Chris- exciting internships, professional development ty said. She would like honors students to know workshops, and community service projects for that they can still visit the honors college office you this coming year.” for questions regarding schedules, tutorials and ASHLEY BOWDEN Honors students can still expect to see a theses. Dr. Joan Digby familiar face when visiting the honors office. “I grew to love the honors college and ap- continued from page 2 Tracey Christy, secretary for the Honors Col- preciate why we have it,” Christy said. She had lege, will be present to help students with any a hand in recruiting for the college. There are upperclassmen in the program, and I’m not just questions they might have. Previously, Christy 95 freshman enrolled in honors for the 2019- going to disappear from sight,” she said. took over Digby’s role twice when she was out 20 academic year, almost double the 49 who Daniel Hanley, assistant biology profes- on sabbatical. “She’s going to help the new enrolled last year. The honors program en- sor, and Heather Butts, adjunct nursing faculty directors get up to speed, and I will too,” Digby riches student education and prepares them for member, will serve as the new co-directors of said. the future, according to Christy. “Tutorials and the Honors College. “I met with the new people. “We are honored to be working with Trac- theses have helped plenty of students get jobs,” They really are going to be starting honors from ey Christy… and helping students navigate she said. scratch because they have no experience direct- through the program,” Hanley wrote in the “It’s a wonderful program. Dr. Digby is just ing honors,” Digby said. “I don’t know what same email. “For those of you who have been in a wonderful person, she cares about each and they have in mind. I am extremely worried that the program, please do not be concerned about every student,” Christy said. “She will do what- their new direction might diminish the struc- any changes to the program that will impact ever she can to help students get ahead and to ture of the program.” your progress. Everything will remain as it has learn and to be the best they can be.” Dean-less in College of Arts, Communication and Design

BY SHANNON MILLER voted unanimously to appoint theatre and film be funneled through academic VP Weis, who is MANAGING & NEWS EDITOR professor, Jon Fraser, as the department’s vastly over-extended making for a difficult work interim dean; however, the university opted process,” Fowles said. The former Dean of the College of Arts, against it. “I was associate dean; I was acting Weis seemed inclined to accept the depart- Communication and Design (CACD), Steven dean; I was senior associate dean, but I was in ment’s vote, and asked them for a letter in Breese, was appointed to a dean’s position at the dean’s office for 12 years, which is why my support of Fraser, according to Fowles. “The a different school, leaving some LIU students name came up. I had already done the job for decision to not hire Jon - or anyone - was made without a permanent dean for the start of the many years,” Fraser said. by those above Ed Weis, and I assume it as a 2019 fall semester. Professor of Communications and Film, money-saving measure,” she said. “It certainly Post welcomed Breese to the dean’s position Dr. Barbara Fowles, attended the meeting and is not a helpful decision.” A letter was written back in August, 2017, after 25 years of leader- voted in support of Fraser. “We chose Jon promptly and primarily by Cara Gargano, the ship in the field. Just two years later, the actor, partly because he was very willing to take on chair for the department of theatre, dance and director and playwright accepted a new offer to the job, and no one else was eager to do so, management, and then given to Weis. When serve as the artistic director of the Pittsburgh since the administration is so difficult to work The Pioneer asked Weis for clarification on Playhouse and dean of the Conservatory of Per- with,” Fowles said. why the school declined to have Fraser step in, forming Arts at Point Park University in Pitts- It remains uncertain why the university he said, “The University cannot comment on burgh, PA. Breese fully intended to stay at LIU turned down the department’s recommenda- personnel matters.” for a while, according to the Pittsburgh Post- tion. No further explanation was given, ac- An ad was posted to LIU’s website on Au- Gazette, but the dual position was too much to cording to Fraser’s knowledge. The school’s gust 29 for a position titled “Dean, Visual Arts pass up. Ed Weis, Vice President of Academic determination comes amidst many changes & Design.” Another ad was posted to Indeed. Affairs, will assume the duties of the position and additions to the CACD school, including com on approximately Sunday, Sept. 1, under until a new dean is found. the recently introduced bachelor of science in the same title. As of Thursday, Sept. 17, two Following Breese’s departure, the chairs communications program. “We are now in a weeks into the start of the fall semester, both and a few faculty members of the CACD school situation where even minor paperwork must ads have yet to be removed. For more stories, visit us online at www.LIUPostPioneer.com 6 NEWS The Pioneer Need Medical Attention? Go to NYIT licensed mental health profes- sionals, nutritionists, and a nurse available to provide consultation and support for students. “The most important aspect of running our center is to provide supportive counseling and nutritional services to our students,” Schwartz said. The center’s staff are available SAID QAQISH to discuss concerns of anxiety, NYIT’s student health center depression, substance abuse, self- esteem, eating disorders, sexual BY JAMES BONNER assault, gender identity, domestic STAFF WRITER violence, suicidal ideation, grief and loss. In the midst of flu season, stu- NYIT's medical facilities be- dents looking to receive medical came the main clinical care facility attention won’t be able to go to the for Post after a deal between the Center for Healthy Living in most two campus was established in cases. They’ll have to travel off 2014. Services offered by NYIT’s campus to the New York Institute clinics are family medicine, physi- of Technology. Medical and psy- cal therapy, internal medicine, chiatric referrals are made next occupational therapy, speech door to the W. Kenneth Riland pathology, psychology, acupunc- Health Center at NYIT. ture, physical medicine and rehab, Where the Center for Healthy radiology, exercise stress-testing, a Living at Post is built to only serve wellness program, genetic counsel- current undergraduate and gradu- ing and Adele Smithers Parkin- ate students, NYIT’s clinics are son’s disease treatment center. built to serve the whole commu- Dr. Brian Harper is the chief JANE MONTALTO nity, according to director Lynne medical officer and an associate Schwartz.The center at Post pro- professor of clinical specialties at their D.O. (osteopathic doctor athletes as well. vides students with psychological NYIT; John Lopez is the direc- school) program. Students can find the Center counseling, nutrition counseling, tor of health center operations at NYIT’s medical center for Healthy Living on campus in and health services. Their hours of NYIT. promotes specialty services to the basement level of Post Hall or operation for counseling or nurs- “We operate year-round, so Post, including sports medicine. contact them at 516-299-3468 or ing services are Monday through we’re talking about 8 a.m. to about “We work closely with LIU [email protected], as well Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; nutrition 5:30 p.m.,” Lopez said. The center regarding the athletes coming to as follow the center on Instagram services are Tuesday through is open Monday through Friday. receive their physicals and what @liupostcenterforhealthyliving. Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The health care center at NYIT is have you,” Harper said. “We work Shuttle service is provided to According to its webpage on liu. known for providing osteopathic closely with athletes from our own NYIT’s center when warranted. edu, the center is equipped with manipulative medicine through college and local high school Veterinary Medicine School Misses Fall 2019 Start BY JADA BUTLER start construction for the new facilities, lecture updates, but promised to share details about CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF halls and labs, and publicize in any media out- the program once the letter of reassurance is lets, according to Carmen Fuentealba, dean of received. The long anticipated College of Veterinary the college of veterinary medicine. The projected cost of the vet school is $40 Medicine that was announced to begin during The accreditation body granted the univer- million, the Pioneer also reported in October the fall 2019 semester is behind schedule. The sity a site visit in 2018, the Pioneer reported 2018. Governor Andrew Cuomo promised $12 school, which was announced at the beginning in the Oct. 17, 2018 issue. According to several million in state transformative funds, and the of the 2018-19 academic year, is still undergo- professors who were on campus this summer, university hosted several fundraisers, including ing the process of obtaining a letter of reassur- the accreditation body made a second visit in a polo match on Sept. 15, 2018, to raise addi- ance from the national accreditation body. August. tional funds. The university must obtain this letter before Fuentealba did not confirm whether or The Pioneer will continue reporting on the they can begin recruitment for the program, not those visits occurred and gave no further process as new information arises.

To get news delivered straight to your inbox, subscribe to our newsletter. Email us at [email protected] September 18, 2019 FEATURES 7 The Wave’s First Female Commuter Column Operational Director

AMANDA DESENS

Sam Uebel and Dan Casazza are the new operational and program director at the Wave JANE MONTALTO BY TRAVIS FORTUNAS STAFF WRITER BY JENNIFER CHAVEZ casts - one of the many difficulties experienced STAFF WRITER while the school changes divisions. As per Welcome back to school LIU students! As you NCAA guidelines, Division I athletes and their start this school year it is very important to keep There is a new operational director at coaches are not allowed to speak to any media a couple key ideas in your head since your com- The Wave, the station formerly outlets without the permission of their team muting life is a lot different from that of a resident known as MYWCWP. The last time an opera- PR manager. She is grateful that the new PR student on campus. Your days take more planning tional director was appointed was in 2003. managers are easy to communicate with. and may include putting a little extra money into This year, the position is back with a woman Replacing Uebel as program director this that gas tank. at the helm for the first time in the station’s fall is Daniel Casazza, junior social studies With this being the first year merging LIU Post history. In the re-established role, Samantha major. Casazza admitted the responsibilities and LIU Brooklyn, we have a lot of students com- Uebel will tackle the changes incurred by the of the new position, along with his class work- ing from different areas all with the same intention: OneLIU merger. load, hasn’t been easy to balance. He was a to be a LIU Shark, and to get one of the greatest The locally run radio station cut the member of the station prior to his promotion, educations Long Island has to offer. position years ago because it was no longer and founded the live show Rushhour Rock. He As you plan your travel schedule, I find it criti- deemed necessary, according to Director and is confident he will adjust to the changes soon. cal to leave more time than you originally planned, Station Manager Daniel Cox. With various The position provides him “a platform to en- just in case you get stuck in traffic due to a broken changes like a new mascot and school colors, act some change for the good of the station,” down vehicle or a car accident. I find traffic on the Cox decided to find someone to accommodate Casazza said. highway can cause up to an hour in delays depend- the increased responsibilities associated with Casazza explained he’s a perfect example ing on what time you plan on traveling. becoming an NCAA Division I school. that anyone can be a part of The Wave. He One tip I have always kept with me commuting Appointed by Cox, Uebel, a senior broad- joined the station during the fall 2018 semes- from over an hour away to campus is to plan my casting major, said she is ready to take on the ter because he loved music and wanted to schedule with minimal traffic to avoid rush hour. role. Formerly The Wave’s program director, share his words on the subject. Joining the Plan your schedule for midday and and look to Uebel admitted the new job comes with more Wave is an “opportunity for people to step up leave the school around 7 p.m. I have found that responsibilities than her previous position. and take initiative,” Casazza said, and he en- traveling at these times is a huge benefit when try- The operational director oversees all opera- courages everyone to get out of their comfort ing to avoid rush hour traffic in both directions. tions from both The Wave, which is online, zone and try something new. This is my senior year here, and throughout and WCWP, on FM radio. “As the operational In preparation for the upcoming year, the years I would like to say I have seen it all on director, it’s my job to make sure everything both Uebel and Casazza invite more students the highway, but unfortunately you never know runs smoothly at the station. I work with to become part of their team. With the transi- what you’re going to run into during your morning various department heads to operate events, tion from Division II to Division I, there are commute. People on the road don’t have your same productions, and the general operations of the more positions to be filled at the station. “[The intentions and are often in a rush. station,” Uebel said. Wave is] a place where you can express your- The two things you need when commuting are The role does come with its challenges. self,” Uebel said, and she believes it is a “fo- a lot of patience and good timing skills, and with Uebel expressed her frustration about the in- rum for people to speak.” Casazza added it’s those you will be just fine! I hope you make this ability for student station members to speak a great opportunity to develop “life-learning school year as great as it is intended to be! Have a directly with athletes for their sports broad- skills” that you won’t get elsewhere. great year LIU students! 8 FEATURES The Pioneer Great Lawn Festival PHOTOS BY DYLAN VALIC AND ASHLEY BOWDEN

BY DYLAN VALIC lenge, a mechanical bull ride. The Great Lawn Festival was hosted by FEATURES EDITOR the Students Activities Board, with the help of the Promise Office. “The Students Activities Board works really hard to give the students what The Great Lawn Festival, a yearly tradition to kick off the start of they want, things they’re interested in,” said Jesse Meaney, Resident the school year for students, featured some new attractions this year. Director & Coordinator for Events & Operations. “So we just take their The festival took place on Thursday, Sept. 12 during common hour, and ideas and we run with them.” Students and staff alike seemed to enjoy gave students a chance to take a break from their class schedules and the event. “It’s cool that LIU does these things for us,” Shelley Dean, a enjoy themselves. The festival hosted carnival games, rides, and a live sophomore musical theater major, said. band called Easy Street. Complimentary pretzels, popcorn, and funnel “I think it’s great, I think the students are having a lot of fun.” said cake were also served. Julia Pagano, associate director for student involvement. “It really gets Some of the new attractions this year included a swing carousel, a students out of the classroom, out of their residence halls, to get in- human gyroscope thrill ride, and for those who were up for the chal- volved and get to know each other.” September 18, 2019 FEATURES 9 Great Lawn Festival 10 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT The Pioneer Tilles Center Hosts Parkinson’s Dance Class

COURTESY OF STEPHANIE TURNER Participants in the Arts Education Outreach program’s dance class for individuals with Parkinson’s

BY JACK GEORGIS The model from the MMDG was brought to scheduled in February 2020 and one more over ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT, ONLINE, & NEWSLETTER EDITOR the attention of the Tilles Center and aligned summer 2020. All remaining classes have open with the mission of the Arts Education Out- availability. The Arts Education Outreach program reach program. Part of their mission is to Each session focuses on a has a different at the Tilles Center for the Performing Arts “serve the underserved,” and make art ac- style of dance. “We have more classic dance, started offering specialized dance courses for cessible to everyone. “We have programs for [and] general dance which includes, zumba hip individuals with Parkinson’s disease, a nervous children with autism, from low socioeconomic hop, tap,” Turner said. system disorder that affects a person’s move- communities on Long Island, and programs for Instructors of these classes are also ment. children with pediatric cancer,” Turner said. trained to deal with the often differing levels Stephanie Turner, director of education Turner and others involved in the program of mobility each individual might face. “Due to and outreach at the Tilles Center, discussed reached out to the MMDG to connect them the differing levels of mobility, they may dance how this program came to be and why it was with people who were trained in this kind of at different levels, the instructors are well- chosen, “Several studies have been conducted work. “We were then lucky to acquire a spon- trained to accommodate everyone’s differences about the benefits of movement, especially the sor, so the program is fully paid for by a non- so that the classes work out very well.” Turner mind-body connection for patients with Par- profit Dance Party for Parkinson’s,” Turner said. kinson’s, so they do very well with activities said. The Parkinson’s dance classes are not such as yoga, dance, boxing, anything that re- Dance Party for Parkinson’s found it im- the only specialized courses that the program ally connects the mind with motor skills it’s all portant to make the program easily accessible, offers. “We are also working on a new program about cognitive function,” Turner said. so there was no admission fee. “The sponsor is called sensory immersion theater. This is a The inspiration and program itself was a re- very committed to offering these programs for new form of theater for people on the spectrum sult of the Mark Morris Dance Group (MMDG). free understanding the high cost it can often be that takes place in a very small environment.” “They created a model where they train dance to live with these ailments,” Turner said. Turner said. Program staff will hold these teachers to learn how to work with patients The program was piloted during the events in the Patrons Lounge for children and with Parkinson’s, and also people with limited 2018-19 academic year, and four classes were adults on the autistic spectrum. This opportu- mobility so [for] anybody who might have a held during that time. The program garnered nity is slated to debut in May 2020, and will physical ailment that might prevent them from enough interest that staff plan to offer it again incorporate students from the theatre program dancing, it is a highly specialized form of dance through the remainder of 2019 and into 2020. on campus to interact with visitors. that these teachers are specifically trained in.” Classes in September take place every Friday Turner said. from noon to 1:15 p.m. There is another class

Dance class took place at the Tilles Center COURTESY OF STEPHANIE TURNER A variety of participants attended dance class COURTESY OF STEPHANIE TURNER September 18, 2019 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 11 Film Alumnus’ Show Airs on PBS

BY CHANEL LUBSEY get into the museum exhibit with Mort’s STAFF WRITER other works or even travel with the show, let alone get aired on PBS. I worked on these Some documentaries are made to share projects because I had a passion for the sub- people’s stories with the world, and shine ject matter and wanted to share a story with light upon situations to bring understanding the world,” Portaro said. “The recognition to others. This is what one former student received over the past few months, although planned to do with his original work. different, is rewarding knowing that the Film alum Justin Portaro (‘18) has a doc- films will reach a greater audience and be umentary about Mort Kunstler’s work, both able to share Mort Kunstler’s work and story well and lesser known, showing at the Heck- with even more people.” scher Museum in Huntington for the exhibit The exhibit is showing from Aug. 24 - of Mort Kunstler. It is his first documentary, Nov. 19 at Hecksher, then traveling to other and will air on WLIW, Long Island’s PBS locations throughout the country. Portaro’s Station. The exhibit of Mort Kunstler fea- film is also being broadcasted on WLIW on tures paintings and drawings from the artist Oct. 28, Nov.1, and Nov. 3. It will be live himself alongside Portaro’s documentary as online as well at allarts.org and on stream- a companion piece to the show. ing apps under the All Arts Docs Selects The idea for the film came about as category. former congressman Steve Israel, also our Susan Zeig, professor of film and chair of campus’ former Chairman of the LIU Global the department of communications and film, Institute and Distinguished Writer in Resi- played a large role in helping Portaro dence, knew the Kunstler family and wished with his first documentary. “She was a staple to produce a documentary on Mort. Israel throughout the entire process and an amaz- and the dean’s office helped fund this pro- ing documentarian. Being able to sit with duction to serve as a potential inaugural ef- her and learn from her throughout this film fort film for a possible production company has been invaluable and if it wasn’t for her on campus called LIU Productions. LIU the other things like the traveling exhibit or Mort Kunstler invitation postcard Productions never came to fruition. it getting aired wouldn’t of been possible,” “It never crossed our minds that it would Portaro said.

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82-08 Glen Cove Road - Greenvale www.abeetza.com (516) 484-3123 14 SPORTS The Pioneer Alumnus Takes on Historic Role as NBA Play-By-Play Broadcaster BY IDA YNNER LAGERQVIST SPORTS & PHOTO EDITOR

The Portland Trail Blazers, an NBA team, hired alumnus Travis Demers (2003) as their new radio play-by-play broadcaster. He is the fourth ever radio play-by-play broadcaster in the team’s history. “To have the opportunity to do this at the highest level in the 50-year history of this team, only three people have ever done it and there are only 30 people in the world who has this job, it’s literally a dream come true,” Demers said. Demers got the opportunity to fill in as the Trail Blazers’ play-by-play broadcaster in 2018 when their announcer of 21 years, Brian Wheeler, was unable to work due to health issues. Demers called 57 games for the team last season and will now do so full time. In his new position, he will broadcast every one of the Trail Blazers’ games. “When you turn on the radio to listen to the game, you will be listening to me,” he said. Ever since Demers was a child, he dreamt of being a broadcaster. “You imagine calling a big moment. You sit there in your driveway with your friends and you are broadcasting your little game. You are doing the voice, and you are doing the fake crowd noises,” Demers said. “This is something I’ve literally wanted to COURTESY OF TRAVIS DEMERS do my entire life.” Demers at Blazers vs. Knicks game at Madison Square Garden in November 2018 Demers graduated with a BFA in communi- cations with a specialization in broadcasting. In complishments, not just as a broadcaster but as do. If you have a dream you have to fight for it college, he worked for the school’s radio sta- a person.” and do everything you can to accomplish that.” tion, WCWP, currently known as the Wave, do- Even if Demers felt well prepared by the Another piece of advice Demers wants to ing talk shows and play-by-play broadcasting school, in the real workplace he soon realized give is to place oneself in the field they want for football, , and . that he still had a lot to learn. “I really didn’t to work within, even if it demands sacrifices. The experience he got at WCWP is something know how little I actually knew until I got out “Whatever your dream is, find a way to do that. Demers has found useful in the real workplace. to the real world,” he said. “I didn’t quite have Don’t do something else. If it means going to a “The classes were helpful, but having the expe- a grasp of how challenging this industry could small town or if it means leaving your comfort rience of working at the radio station WCWP, be.” He doesn’t blame the school for his un- zone, find a place to do what it is that you want that’s what prepared me,” he said. “Getting the awareness and believes that a person needs to to do because that is the only way that it is on-air experience while I was in college, getting get out there to fully understand it. “There’s going to happen,” he said. “Nobody is going to to make mistakes, learn what to do and what really nothing that can prepare you for that,” hand anything to you.” not to do, how to be on air and how to not be Demers said. During his career, Demers has worked at nervous that was all really valuable.” In an industry where everybody wants ABC Sports Radio as a producer, SiriusXM in Demers sees the school radio station, his their big break, a person never has a safe spot, Washington D.C. as sports update anchor, and advisor Dan Cox and the people he got to work Demers explained. “It’s so competitive, and you at 1080 The Fan in Portland hosting a sports with as important factors to his success. “Dan never really have any job security even when talk show, amongst others. Currently, along- Cox really put me in a position to succeed and you are full time,” he said. “The uncertainty of side his new broadcasting job for the Trail build my career. Without having the opportu- this business is the most challenging thing.” Blazers, Demers hosts a sports talk show on nities to do what I did at WCWP and to work Demers had experienced difficulties with Rip City Radio between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. with the people I got to work with, there is no the industry several times. “I have been let After years of searching and hard work, way I would be here right now,” Demers said. go from multiple jobs and I have been told by Demers found what he searched for. “My entire “Travis was an outstanding sports broad- bosses that I didn’t have a future in this busi- life and my entire career I have always been caster as a student at WCWP,” said Daniel Cox, ness,” he said. However, Demers knew what he thinking about what’s the next job. This is that director and station manager of WCWP. “He wanted, and he kept working towards his goal. job. I want to do this job for the rest of my life,” was persistent and very tough on himself. He “I worked hard and I didn’t let any of that get he said. strived to be better each time he called a game to me,” he said. “Things were really difficult but on the radio. I am extremely proud of his ac I kept working at it and that’s what you have to September 18, 2019 SPORTS 15 Women’s Soccer Team Ties After Double Over Time

IDA YNNER LAGERQVIST JENNIFER CHAVEZ Julia Duffy on the run during Sunday’s game Women’s soccer vs. NJIT

of bad luck. They thought they had a lot more caused by a number of different factors, includ- BY JENNIFER CHAVEZ chances to score in comparison to previous ing weather patterns, diseases and weeds in the STAFF WRITER games. They both believe their team took the grass, etc.” The Pioneer was not able to reach initiative to control the game through their the director of facilities services in time for an The women’s soccer team faced New Jersey movement of the ball. Clark believes it’s only a interview regarding the fields. Institute of Technology (NJIT) at President’s matter of time before her team is able to prove After letting the game field rest for another Stadium at NYIT on Friday, Sept. 13. The their worth. two days, the women’s soccer team was wel- highly competitive game resulted in a 1-1 tie Both players expressed frustration about comed to play their first home game on Sunday after double overtime. Freshman forward Ta- the conditions of their practice and game field. Sept. 15, against University of the Pacific. The tiana Lizarraga scored an early goal against the Friday’s game was originally supposed to be game ended with a narrow 0-1 loss. Highlanders off a deflection from the post two their first home game, but they were unable Cagnina and Clark both agreed their cur- minutes into the game. The rest of the half was to host the game due to the bad conditions of rent record of 1-5-1 inaccurately portrays their a consistent back-and-forth game from both their field. Clark and Cagnina said the thick team’s ability. They argue their team is better sides. and bumpy grass made it difficult for them to than what the results show. Clark admitted the Each competitor had many opportunities prepare themselves against teams who have merge of the campuses has brought together on goal, but both teams were unable to find perfect clean-cut grass or even turf fields. a team of players filled with a lot of talent, but the back of the net. Opponent Tara Walenczyk They believe it was unfair that they were different styles of play. “No style has been com- tied the game 11 minutes into the second half unable to properly train as their opponents are. pletely defined yet,” Clark said. She believes the due to miscommunication between The Shark’s Assistant Director of Athletics and Director results will soon begin to show how talented defensive line. The remaining time was filled of Media Relations Casey Schermick did not their team is once a style of play is developed to with both teams attacking towards goal, but the know the exact cause of the moved game or the showcase each player’s individual talents. score remained a 1-1 tie after 110 minutes of conditions of the field, but says safety and grass The women’s soccer team is back in compe- play. quality could be determining factors. “I do tition on Wednesday, Sept. 18, at 4 p.m. at the Freshman defender Grace Cagnina and know that the grass was spotty at parts of the LIU Soccer Park as they face Fairleigh Dickin- senior midfielder Gabrielle Clark explained field and caused concern for bouncing balls and son University in their first Northeast Confer- the final score of Friday’s game was just a case the safety of players,” he said. “This could be ence (NEC) game.

Women’s soccer against University of the Pacific IDA YNNER LAGERQVIST 16 SPORTS The Pioneer Upcoming Sharks’ New Athletic Director Game Schedule Results Women’s Soccer Women’s Soccer Wednesday, Sept. 18 @ 4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 13 vs Fairleigh Dickinson vs New Jersey Institute of University Technology Home Tie 1-1

Saturday, Sept. 21 @ 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 15 at vs University of the Cambridge, Mass. Pacific Loss 0-1 Men’s Soccer Record 1-5-1 Saturday, Sept. 21 @ 3 p.m. at Iona College Men’s Soccer New Rochelle, N.Y. Saturday, Sept. 14 vs University of Maryland Monday, Sept. 23 @ 7 p.m. Baltimore County at Columbia University Loss 1-5 New York, N.Y. Record 2-3

Women’s Volleyball Women’s Golf Thursday, Sept. 19 @ 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 12 vs San Jose State University COURTESY OF MARTINOV at Hofstra Shootout Brooklyn, N.Y. Dr. William Martinov Win 316-323

Friday, Sept. 20 @ 6 p.m. BY ELISE PERSON 1987 to 1998. There, Martinov was a part Men’s Golf vs STAFF WRITER of the coaching staff of the 1988 National Monday-Tuesday, Sept. 16-17 Brooklyn, N.Y. Championship team with Notre Dame at welcomes a Football. Invitational Saturday, Sept. 21 @ 4 p.m. new athletic director, Dr. William Mar- According to his LinkedIn page, Mar- vs Columbia University tinov. At the end of July 2019, President tinov’s has over 30 years of experience in Women’s Volleyball Brooklyn, N.Y. Kimberly Cline announced Martinov as both higher education and athletics. Friday-Saturday, Sept. 13-14 the University’s athletic director after the Before coming to LIU, Martinov at Osprey Tournament Football previous Athletic Director Debby DeJong was involved in both student affairs and 3 losses out of 3 games Saturday, Sept. 21 @ 1 p.m. accepted a position at Stony Brook Uni- athletics at Mercy College. Prior to Mercy Record: 0-9 vs versity. Martinov will serve as the athletic College, Martinov served as the senior Home director for both Brooklyn and Post’s associate director of athletics at Stony Field Hockey campuses as they begin their first year as Brook University. Sunday, Sept. 15 Women’s Rugby a combined Division I program. Long Island University is not Mar- vs La Salle University Sunday, Sept. 22 @ 11 a.m. Martinov has already shown to stu- tinov’s first job as director of athletics. Loss 2-3 at dent athletes, coaches, and administra- Prior to accepting the position at Stony Record: 0-4 Rockville Centre, N.Y. tors his commitment and dedication to Brook, he was the athletic director at success for the LIU athletics program. He SUNY Maritime College for four years. Women’s Rugby Field Hockey held meetings with athletes and coaches Martinov started his first job as Saturday, Sept. 14 Sunday, Sept. 22 @ 12 p.m. from both Brooklyn and Post’s campus to an executive in athletics in 1998 at St. vs Queens University of vs Towson University make clear what his agenda and expecta- John’s University. He started off as direc- Charlotte Home tions are for the athletic programs here tor of equipment operations and strength Loss 12-44 at LIU. and conditioning and then moved his Record: 0-3 When introducing Martinov as the way up to becoming associate director of Shark’s athletic director for the first alumni relations for the duration of his time, Cline commented on how the new career at St. Johns. There, he earned his director will positively affect LIU athlet- doctoral degree in educational adminis- ics. “Bill’s student-centered career, in tration. developing successful athletic programs Martinov is no stranger to either one and student academic services, will help of LIU’s campuses. He came to LIU in lead LIU into a new era of championship 2016 to work first as chief of admissions athletics,” she said. and enrollment strategy and then as dean Martinov is no stranger to a champi- of eastern regional campuses and chief of onship mentality. After graduating from alumni and employer engagement. His Indiana’s DePauw University, Martinov experience during this time as part of the began his career at the University of campus’ athletic department prepared Notre Dame as the assistant strength and him for the position of athletic director. conditioning coach for over 10 years from