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�鶹ӰԺ Performing Arts Center

Colin EverBeta — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 22:37:24 +0000

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�鶹ӰԺ President David M. Cohen Named a 2026 Influencer in Education by Long Island Business News

Colin EverBeta — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 17:10:38 +0000

�鶹ӰԺ President David M. Cohen Named a 2026 Influencer in Education by Long Island Business News

�鶹ӰԺ President David M. Cohen has been named a 2026 Influencer in Education by Long Island Business News, recognizing his longstanding leadership at �鶹ӰԺ and his contributions to higher education across Long Island. Dr. Cohen is among a select group of educational leaders from colleges, universities, research institutions and workforce training programs throughout the region featured in this year’s special publication.

Long Island Business News (LIBN) is a leading source of business news and information serving the Long Island business community. Its annual Influencers special sections recognize individuals whose leadership and accomplishments are helping shape important industries and institutions across the region.

For its 2026 Influencers in Education, LIBN focused on leaders who are responding to a rapidly changing economy through academic innovation, expanded access, new technologies and stronger connections between education and workforce needs. The publication notes that, collectively, this year’s honorees are helping strengthen Long Island’s talent pipeline and shape the region’s long-term economic future.

A Longstanding Leader at �鶹ӰԺ

Dr. Cohen is one of the longest-serving college presidents on Long Island. Appointed President of �鶹ӰԺ in 2016, his history with the College dates back to 1987. He served as Provost for seven years before departing in 2009 and later returned to become the College’s third president. In the interim, he served as President of the Institute of Audio Research and as Provost and Chief Academic Officer at Briarcliffe College.

Beyond �鶹ӰԺ, Dr. Cohen has played an active role in higher education leadership throughout New York. He serves as Chair of the New York-based Association of Private Colleges and is one of the founding presidents of the North American Conference for Intercollegiate Athletes, a Division 1 conference within the U.S. Collegiate Athletic Association.

Dr. Cohen has also served on the accrediting commission of the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges and on accrediting teams representing the New York State Board of Regents, the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and ACCSC. He is a trustee of the Long Island Regional Advisory Council on Higher Education, a group of college presidents that advises the Board of Regents on issues affecting higher education on Long Island.

Supporting the Next Generation of Creative Professionals

Dr. Cohen began his career in higher education as a financial aid administrator and admissions officer before joining the �鶹ӰԺ faculty. LIBN notes his extensive knowledge of the regulatory landscape affecting higher education and credits his leadership with expanding �鶹ӰԺ’s academic offerings and developing modern residence halls and film studios designed to better serve creative students.

These efforts reflect �鶹ӰԺ’s continuing commitment to providing career-focused education for students pursuing creative and professional fields.

Dr. Cohen is a graduate of New York Law School and the State University of New York at Oneonta.

His recognition as a 2026 Long Island Business News Influencer in Education celebrates nearly four decades of involvement with �鶹ӰԺ and his continuing leadership within the broader Long Island higher education community.

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Six FTC Theatre Students Sign with Talent Agencies After 2026 Senior Showcase

Colin EverBeta — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 14:18:49 +0000

Six FTC Theatre Students Sign with Talent Agencies After 2026 Senior Showcase

The annual �鶹ӰԺ Senior Showcase in New York City reflects the Theatre Arts program’s emphasis on conservatory training, professional preparation and legitimate industry connections.

By Jacob Bila

At �鶹ӰԺ, theatre training is designed to lead directly into the professional entertainment industry. As an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Theatre, the College offers rigorous, conservatory, Bachelor of Fine Arts programs in both Acting B. F. A. and Musical Theatre B. F. A.

Through intensive instruction, musical theatre students train in the triple-threat of acting, singing, and dancing. There are hourly private vocal lessons; 21 required dance classes with levels in ballet, jazz, and tap; acting thru song; acting training; musical theatre skills; and musical training in harmony, sight singing, and ear training. Acting students train in acting for the stage and camera, using the techniques of Stanislavsky as well as the American Method training of Strasberg, Adler, Meisner, and Hagen. Additionally, there is training in voice, movement, dance, stage combat, and professional career preparation while gaining extensive experience through fully mounted, collaborative productions and projects. And, both MT and Acting students gain training in auditioning.

Both Musical Theatre and Acting students train in these various disciplines in classes taught by veterans of their craft. That professional preparation reaches its culmination in the �鶹ӰԺ Senior Showcase, a career-launching event that places graduating performers in front of talent agents, casting directors and other industry professionals in New York City. Students prepare for the New York City Showcase throughout their entire senior year by refining their performance material, audition skills, résumés, websites and professional portfolios. During the year industry professionals provide workshops and master classes that establish connections to show business. Our showcases have brought talent agents and casting directors together with emerging performers, which help connect FTC students with opportunities for success in musicals, plays, movies, TV, and commercials.

The results of our Showcases demonstrate the value of that preparation. Here are the results of the 2026 FTC Senior Showcase, in which 12 seniors attend and 6 signed with agents:

Aidan Barrio signed with BMG Talent.
Symone Hammond signed with Plaza 7 Model & Talent Agency.
Jamil Denard signed with Adunni Rose Talent Agency.
Alex McLaughlin signed with The Price Group Talent Agency.
Hazel Ragsdell signed with WSM Talent.
Jonny Iris signed with S+C Management.

What distinguishes the �鶹ӰԺ Theatre Arts program is its clear connection between conservatory training and professional opportunity. Students do not simply study performance—they rehearse, audition, collaborate and create the proper materials and credentials to present themselves to the people who can help launch their careers. Supported by experienced faculty, industry professionals, frequent performance opportunities and individualized mentorship, the Senior Showcase serves as the final bridge between student and successful working artist. The recent signing of these six FTC performers through the �鶹ӰԺ Senior Showcase is a powerful reflection of their talent and preparation nurtured by a Theatre Program committed to helping its graduates take the crucial, big steps into the industry of their passion.

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�鶹ӰԺ Honors 2026 Graduates During 52nd Commencement Ceremony

Colin EverBeta — Wed, 13 May 2026 17:12:04 +0000

�鶹ӰԺ Honors 2026 Graduates During 52nd Commencement Ceremony

The Class of 2026 took center stage at �鶹ӰԺ last week–and the exciting graduation was part celebration . . . and part concert!

Inside the FTC Performing Arts Center, approximately 125 undergraduate and graduate students earned degrees in Business Management, Court Reporting, Film and Television, Interactive Media Arts, Mass Communication, Music Education, Performance and Theatre Arts.

�鶹ӰԺ is Long Island’s premiere creative arts college, and this year marked the school’s 52nd Commencement Exercises.

Student Standouts

This year’s ceremony carried extra significance because Doctorate degrees were also granted. According to Registrar Anna Nieves, �鶹ӰԺ bestowed two Doctorates in Musical Arts, and celebrated five Master Degree recipients.

Additionally, says Nieves, “there was an all-student performance from the graduating class of 2026.”

Mass Communication and Audio students handled the live sound and technical aspects of graduation, providing them with the hands-on technical experience they’ll carry into their career paths.

Her advice for the recent graduates? “Continue believing in yourselves, continue working hard, and never be afraid to chase the goals and dreams that inspire you.” Also, “no matter where life leads, you will always be part of this community, and we will always be proud of you.”

Speeches and Music Take Center Stage

On stage, salutatorian Sydney Festa shared the unique journey that led her to �鶹ӰԺ. She “always loved music,” but initially ran from it, choosing to study forensic psychology at a different college before transferring to �鶹ӰԺ.

Festa said that everything changed the moment she toured �鶹ӰԺ, where suddenly, a career in music felt possible. She learned at �鶹ӰԺ, “there is no such thing as a bad idea,” only people willing to help bring ideas to life.

Festa led the college’s business club, hosted events and radio shows, produced music, worked with publishing and record label opportunities, and balanced it all while playing Division I college soccer.

“When you’re in the right place, growth doesn’t feel forced,” she said. “It feels natural, even when it’s challenging. You don’t excel by accident. You excel when you care.”

A Business Administration major with a concentration in Music Entertainment Industry Studies, Festa urges her peers to hold onto “whatever drive brought you through those doors” as they begin their next chapter.

Presidential Pearls of Wisdom

�鶹ӰԺ President David M. Cohen reflected on the resilience of the Class of 2026, describing them as the college’s “first post-Covid generation of college students.” While the pandemic disrupted much of their high school experience, Cohen praised the graduates for persevering by continuing their education at �鶹ӰԺ.

After missing last year’s ceremony, Cohen returned to the stage with gratitude, reminding graduates of their own strength. “You can navigate through a pandemic; you can survive health emergencies.”

He encouraged the Class of 2026 to carry that resilience into the future, stating that life “will absolutely be filled with adversity,” but that the graduates already proved they can weather difficult moments and emerge stronger.

Legendary Musician Buck Dharma Dazzles Crowd

The faculty, staff, and students at �鶹ӰԺ were thrilled to present Musician Buck Dharma — born Donald Roeser — an Honorary Doctor of Music degree. A longtime guitarist and songwriter for the iconic band Blue Öyster Cult, the Smithtown native was recognized for a career that helped define and shape, classic rock. Blue Öyster Cult sold more than 25 million records worldwide and is a globally renowned band.

Before becoming “Buck Dharma,” Roeser was a typical Long Island kid from a musical family. In 1967, he co-founded the band that would later become Blue Öyster Cult and went on to write and sing chart-topping hits, including “Burnin’ for You,” “Godzilla,” and the immortal “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper.”

During the ceremony, Buck Dharma reflected on his unconventional journey to success, describing himself as “a former college drop-out—much to the chagrin of my parents.” Accepting his honorary degree, he announced: “I am today a Doctor of Music from �鶹ӰԺ!”

Buck Dharma recounted the band’s difficult early years, calling them, “four years of hard work, a failed record contract, eating mostly peanut butter sandwiches and playing cover tunes in bars.” Eventually, those struggles paid off when the group signed with Columbia Records and began touring with mainstream musicians like Black Sabbath and Alice Cooper.

Buck also shared a surreal, local connection to the campus. “I realized that the house I rented in 1974–where I wrote and demo’ed ‘Don’t Fear the Reaper’ – is just two miles from where we are right now, in Melville.”

The rock legend told the excited crowd: “First, work hard. Work really hard. Now is the time to really go for it.”

Also: “Show up. Get out there and make it happen; don’t just sit home in your bedroom.”

Collaboration, he explained, is essential in creative industries. “Meet people, work with people, collaborate with people, build connections,” he told the graduates. “That’s the way doors will open up for you.”

And: “Help others. It’ll come back to you.”

Following his speech, some lucky students and alumni got to jam with Buck Dharma and his wife, Sandy. Buck Dharma thrilled the audience with a live concert right on-site, stating, “there’s just nothing like live music.”

Alumni Words of Wisdom

The college also honored alumna Asjai Lou, Class of 2006, with the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award. Lou spoke passionately about storytelling and connection in creative careers.

“Story is access. Your story is the thing that opens doors.”

That–and connections. She said that reaching out to a fellow �鶹ӰԺ grad named “Gino” opened her connection into entertainment. Over the years, she’s worked on major commercials, music videos, and casting projects alongside industry professionals.

Lou reminded graduates that every challenge, victory, and late-night project contributes to the narrative they carry into the world. “Your story isn’t just about where you start,” she explained. “It’s about who you connect with, who you believe in, and who believes in you.”

A Second Chance to Start Anew

Valedictorian Thomas Wolkwitz closed Commencement with a deeply personal speech.

“I was not the kind of student anyone would expect to see standing here today,” Wolkwitz admitted. “I struggled in school; I struggled at home. I doubted myself constantly.”

After years of battling addiction and self-doubt, he decided to change his life. “I got myself clean, and then I applied to Five Towns.”

On campus, he initially kept to himself, but over time, he started participating more in class and found supportive peers and professors.

“Growth does not happen when things are comfortable,” he shared. “It happens when you’re scared, when you’re unsure, and when you choose to move forward anyway.”

He thanked faculty members who believed in him “when I struggled to believe in myself” and encouraged fellow graduates to stop hiding from opportunity. “Be loud, let yourself be seen,” he said. “Choose the path that challenges you and fulfills you, not just the one that feels safe.

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Explore a College Degree in Court Reporting

Colin EverBeta — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 20:46:53 +0000

Explore a College Degree in Court Reporting

At �鶹ӰԺ, eager students pursue degrees in film, music, media, and the performing arts. They are focused on creativity, expression, and the art of storytelling.

So, it may be surprising to learn that �鶹ӰԺ also offers Court Reporting. Random? Not necessarily. Court Reporting can indeed be creative, and according to Program Coordinator and Instructor, Michelle Houston, its connection to the arts is strong.

“This is a great field for someone who has a good feel for the English language, strong listening skills, and discipline,” says Houston. It’s a technical field, just like Film and TV, but there is also an art to capturing speech accurately in real time.

Currently, the Court Reporting program at �鶹ӰԺ is fully online and is offered to all residents of NYS. Shortly, though, the program will be offered to students who live out of state as the College has applied for eligibility through the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA). Typically, synchronous online classes start at 6 or 6:30 p.m. Certain classes have a combination of lecture and lab, so the duration of the classes varies throughout the semester.

This summer, open enrollment begins May 13th. Fall 2026 Court Reporting classes are slated to start September 2, and Spring 2027 sessions begin January 20.

What to expect

Are you wondering which type of student is drawn to court reporting?

“We see two main types of students,” says Houston. “Brand-new students starting with theory, and transfer students who may have begun elsewhere and are looking to complete their training.”

Theory courses lay the foundation for a career in court reporting, focusing on machine operation and the principles of stenographic writing. From there, students move into speed building. Basically–how fast can you type? (Called: “writing.”)

According to Houston, students begin at speeds of 40 to 60 words per minute and gradually work their way up to professional-level speeds of 200 to 225 words per minute. Understandably, reaching 225 words per minute (WPM) requires consistency and persistence.

“If a student doesn’t meet the required exit speed (the minimum words-per-minute) for a class, they repeat it,” explains Houston. “It’s about mastery; this is a skill you have to build.”

What is needed for class

You cannot just use a regular laptop as a court reporter. For the �鶹ӰԺ program, students train on stenography machines–-specialized keyboards that capture spoken language phonetically at high speed.

Enrolled students must purchase or rent their own machines, often through companies like Stenograph Corp. (This company also sells the software that both students and professional reporters use for computer-assisted transcriptions.) Once you have your own machine for the course, you can use it in the workforce, so it is worth the investment.

Course completion

The �鶹ӰԺ Court Reporting program can be completed as either: a 54-credit certificate (best for those who already have a college degree) or a 73-credit Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) degree, which weaves in general education classes.

Studying court reporting is not easy, but the payoff can be great. According to the NYS Unified Court System website found here: ), recent graduates who start as Court Reporter-Trainees can enter the field with starting earnings of around $77,000. Plus, in NYS, court reporters can move up by taking a state-issued exam; see what is stated on the website here:

Career options abound

According to Houston, court reporters can work within the court system or pursue freelance opportunities, a path that has become increasingly attractive in recent years.

“Freelance work offers flexibility,” says Houston. “It’s especially popular for people who want control over their schedules—parents, for example, or anyone looking for a non-traditional work structure.” You can work from home as a court reporter, or even for just a few hours per week in a courtroom, which is also a nice option.

Yes, court reporting is affiliated with courtrooms, but the field has evolved. Today’s professionals, says Houston, work in a variety of settings such as real-time translation, closed-captioning, and accessibility services for the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities.

�鶹ӰԺ alumni (and staffers, of course) work in “the biz,” so you are in good company as a Court Reporting student. And who knows. . .Hollywood could be your career path! Some court reporters transcribe for judges with reality TV shows, or work on court cases involving celebrities, actor disputes, or movie studio contracts.

Is AI taking over?

“There’s a misconception that artificial intelligence (AI) is going to replace court reporters,” says Houston. “People were saying the same thing back in the 1980s about videographers replacing court reporters, and it did not happen. Instead, the industry adapted.”

Today, software tools incorporate artificial intelligence to assist with transcription, but human expertise remains essential, she states. The role has shifted from paper notes to fully digital, computer-compatible transcripts.

The next steps

Interestingly, in New York, court reporters are not required to be certified. However, �鶹ӰԺ’s program is approved by the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA), ensuring students meet nationally recognized standards.

Graduates are also well-positioned to enter the workforce immediately. The court system offers training programs for new reporters, and Houston states that graduates from the �鶹ӰԺ program are eligible for interviews without needing to pass an additional test.

Court Reporting at �鶹ӰԺ also has an internship requirement, which allows students to gain real-world experience before graduating.

“Plus, our Court Reporting instructors have worked in the field,” says Houston. “They bring real-world experience into the classroom, which is incredibly valuable for students.”

In-demand business

According to Houston, New York’s demand for court reporters is strong because the field is so niche. Meaning: once you graduate, there is a good chance you will have many interviews. Not just anyone can do court reporting, which makes the field so unique and specialized.

It is a great career choice for recent high school graduates or adult students who are pursuing a career transition and want to work in the field of law. If you are a fast typist and are interested in pursuing a high-demand, lucrative, and flexible career, court reporting may be your brand-new career path!

Click here to request additional information about the �鶹ӰԺ Court Reporting program.

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New Programs & Degrees for Fall 2026!

Daoning Dai — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 17:56:07 +0000

There’s Still Time: Enroll at �鶹ӰԺ for Fall 2026

Dix Hills, NY — There’s still time to enroll at �鶹ӰԺ for the Fall 2026 semester. Prospective students are encouraged to check out everything �鶹ӰԺ has to offer and apply.

The next Open House on campus will be held on August 8, 2026. Future students and their families are encouraged to tour the suburban campus, meet faculty and staff, ask questions, and explore academic programs and student life.

Whether you are a recent high school graduate, a transfer student, or someone returning to college after time away, �鶹ӰԺ is here for you–and has some exciting news to share…

New programs for a new era

This fall, �鶹ӰԺ is introducing four new bachelor’s degree programs:

The all-new Bachelor of Science in Business Administration builds a strong foundation in finance, marketing, management, human resources, leadership, and more, preparing students for a wide range of professional careers.

Performing arts students may consider the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting; a conservatory-style training in stage and screen performance, improvisation, stage combat, musical theatre, and on-camera technique.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre provides intensive training in acting, singing, and dance, along with performance opportunities in both campus productions and New York City showcases.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Production Design focuses on the creative and technical side of entertainment, preparing students for behind-the-scenes roles in theatre, film, live events, and emerging media while emphasizing collaboration and leadership.

The college also continues to offer its Music Entertainment Industry Studies (MEIS) concentration, which hosts events related to the music industry and invites guest speakers who work in the field.

A supportive, career-driven environment

Provost and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Marsha Pollard said the college’s greatest strength is its people.

“Our faculty are industry professionals and passionate educators—we are committed to offering workforce-relevant academic programs that prepare students for careers and lifelong learning,” she said.

She points out �鶹ӰԺ fosters a collaborative environment where students feel a strong sense of belonging—a major benefit of attending a small school.

At �鶹ӰԺ, she adds students also benefit from internship and networking opportunities in nearby New York City, while enjoying the advantages of a lush suburban campus setting.

Real-world experience and opportunity

Throughout the year, �鶹ӰԺ hosts events such as the Long Island Media Arts Show, the Long Island 72-Hour Film Festival, live concerts and musical productions, and pre-college programs.

These events provide students with opportunities to build portfolios and gain real-world experience. Plus, they remind Long Islanders that something creative and exciting is always happening at �鶹ӰԺ!

�鶹ӰԺ continues to welcome individuals ready to pursue their dreams. Whether you are a first-time college student, a transfer student, or returning to higher ed years later, �鶹ӰԺ is eager for you to explore campus programs.

Attend the Open House on August 8 and let the Fall of 2026 be the start of something new! Go to FTC.EDU/RSVP and see you soon.

The post New Programs & Degrees for Fall 2026! appeared first on �鶹ӰԺ.

LI72 Film Festival

Colin EverBeta — Fri, 04 Sep 2026 17:34:53 +0000

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LIMAS 2026 Inspired Long Island’s Next Generation of Creators

Colin EverBeta — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 20:33:15 +0000

Photo: �鶹ӰԺ President David Cohen addresses a sold-out crowd at LIMAS 2026

LIMAS 2026 Inspired Long Island’s Next Generation of Creators

�鶹ӰԺ in Dix Hills recently hosted its annual Long Island Media Arts Show (LIMAS 2026), and it was a morning chock-full of energy and excitement.

With packed speaker sessions, student work on display, and an inspirational keynote speaker who also happens to be a �鶹ӰԺ professor, LIMAS 2026 offered a glimpse into what a future in the creative industries can look like, without ever leaving Long Island.

A creative hub for Long Island teens

LIMAS brought together talented high school students from across Long Island, giving them a platform to display their work and connect with others who share their passion.

Many teens there submitted creative works in categories such as digital art, photography, animation, and film. They eagerly attended the event with their teachers, friends, and family members to learn if they won an award. Other teens simply wanted to support their high school, explore college, and attend creative workshops.

Some of the high schools represented at LIMAS 2026 included Bellport High School, Barry Tech, Commack High School, Long Beach High School, Wyandanch High School, Patchogue-Medford High School, and Northport High School, among many others.

Photo: Keynote Speaker Romeo Tirone

Keynote speaker energizes the crowd

Romeo Tirone, ASC, DGA, was the event’s keynote speaker and kicked off the morning by sharing his career path and advice. Now a professor at �鶹ӰԺ, Tirone explained how a single filmmaking class at St. John’s University changed his life. A professor recognized his potential early on and pushed him toward a career he originally hadn’t planned.

Tirone shared that his early days in the industry were anything but glamorous, but he “loved it.”

“I was reloading mags for 24 hours,” he recalled, describing the grind of working as a loader on music videos in his early twenties.

But hard work pays off.

Tirone built professional relationships along the way, which led to projects with legendary musicians Ozzy Osbourne and Tupac Shakur.

Today, he is an Emmy-nominated cinematographer with a deeply impressive résumé, who also collaborated with Hollywood filmmaker Michael Cuesta, a Long Island native. Tirone later moved on to major television productions including Dexter, True Blood, Once Upon a Time, and The Tick.

He showed an exciting clip from The Tick and explained how he pulled off the scene of a bus dangling off a bridge.

Tirone’s message to LIMAS guests was clear: “Stay human in a world of advancing technology and never let anyone stop you from following your passion.”

He also reminded the audience that the tools to start creating are already in their hands…so get started.

“You can make movies right now with the phone in your pocket.”

Photo: 2026 LIMAS Winners

Celebrating student talent

After Tirone’s speech, which was met with loud cheers and whoops from the audience, the LIMAS 2026 awards were presented to the winning students. They took a group photo on stage, cheered on by their friends and teachers.

Senior Jillian Heuer of Northport High School won Best Photographer for her piece Firebird.

“I’m very proud to win; Firebird was a photo of a dancer from my school’s dance team, The Tigerettes,” she explained. Heuer plans to pursue a BFA in photography, crediting experiences like LIMAS for helping clarify her future.

Students who submitted artwork to LIMAS 2026 had their work reviewed by judges, displayed in a gallery on campus, and celebrated in front of peers, teachers, and family members.

For many, it was the first time their creativity was recognized on such a large stage–which was deeply rewarding.

Learning from industry professionals

After the awards ceremony and a lunch break, students attended innovative conference sessions–over 15 were offered–led by industry professionals. Most students attended two sessions of their choice.

Pre-Production Artist Anthony Prevete explained to participants how 3D environments can become powerful pre-production tools for 2D Artwork and visual storytelling. Podcaster and producer Rachel Ann Strauss explained how storytelling continues to evolve across platforms.

For many LIMAS 2026 attendees, it was their first time hearing directly from people doing the exact jobs they dream about.

Image: Crane demonstration at LIMAS

A Legacy of Creativity

William Buchholz, one of LIMAS’s original founders, reflected on how far the showcase has come over the past 25 years. A retired art and media teacher from the Farmingdale Public School District, he remains in awe of everything LIMAS offers to high schoolers.

“The college brings in the best,” he said, referring to the caliber of speakers and session leaders.

Buchholz emphasized that while tools and technology evolve, the heart of creativity does not. His advice to today’s students remains timeless: “Find a job you love, and it won’t feel like work, especially if you get paid for it.”

He also encourages students to start exploring creative paths early, even in middle school, and build meaningful relationships with mentors who are actively working in the field.

Experiencing campus life at �鶹ӰԺ

LIMAS 2026 also introduced Long Island teenagers to everything �鶹ӰԺ has to offer.

From guided tours to conversations with current students and faculty, teens got a sense of what life could look like as future �鶹ӰԺ students.

Unlike larger universities where it is easy to feel lost, Five Towns offers a more personalized environment where students can stand out, collaborate closely with peers, and learn directly from professors who are still active in their industries.

There is also a growing focus on modern technology. At LIMAS, attendees learned that �鶹ӰԺ will soon introduce a course in artificial intelligence (AI), signaling a commitment to staying current with the changing times.

Overall, LIMAS bridges the gap between high school creativity and professional opportunity, reminding students they do not have to travel far or spend a fortune to pursue their passions.

For Long Island teens interested in audio, film, photography, production design, digital media, business, music or theatre, the opportunities are right here at �鶹ӰԺ, whether they choose to commute or live on campus in a dorm.

A record-breaking year

“This was by far our largest year in terms of presentation and workshop sessions, conference attendance, and art submissions,” said Sharon Ryba-Pertz, Director of LIMAS 2026. “We are proud of our students for really demonstrating their professionalism on and off the set. Our keynote speaker, �鶹ӰԺ Professor Romeo Tirone, ASC, DGA, was an absolute highlight.”

She added: “We received great feedback during the event and from a survey shared with attendees. Aside from providing a day of learning and entertainment, this event showcases the real-world industry skills that our students gain through our programs.”

Photo: Student Performers at LIMAS

The 2026 LIMAS winners:

Best 2D Digital Art (Abstract)

Joshua Rodas, Bellport High School — “Contained Light”

Best 2D Digital Art (Representational)

Zhiqian Zhang, Plainview-Old Bethpage JFK High School — “lull of the tides”

Best Animation

Benjamin Krieger, Patchogue-Medford High School — “Noir in the Wall”

Best Photography

Jillian Heuer, Northport High School — “Firebird”

Best Alternative Film

Jeff Raynor, Northport High School — “Through Forgotten Doorways”

Best Narrative Film

John Zatwarnicki, Locust Valley High School @locustvalleyschools — “Carne”

Best Documentary / Non-Fiction Film

Ethan Gelson, Long Beach High School — “The Cost of Racing: No Second Chances”

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�鶹ӰԺ Sound Athletics

Colin EverBeta — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 18:15:45 +0000

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A Motivating Summer for Teens

Colin EverBeta — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 18:55:19 +0000

A Motivating Summer for Teens
�鶹ӰԺ’s Pre-College Program gives high schoolers a preview of college life.

Summer can be a tricky time for teens. If they don’t have specific plans, it’s easy for them to slip into a routine of sleeping till noon, lounging on the couch, and aimlessly scrolling through social media. Before you know it, summer’s over and your teen honestly didn’t do much…and it feels like a wasted opportunity.

Until now.

�鶹ӰԺ can help Long Island teens stay motivated this summer while giving them a head start on college. And it’s right in their own backyard!

The �鶹ӰԺ 2026 Pre-College Summer Program gives high school students the chance to take college-level courses, meet new friends, and experience campus life.

Located on-site, at their beautiful campus in Dix Hills, the program is open to high school students entering grades 10, 11, or 12 in Fall 2026. Graduating seniors can also enroll, whether they’re attending �鶹ӰԺ or not come Fall.

A college preview

For juniors and seniors, there’s an added bonus: they can earn up to six college credits while still in high school. This is a pretty big deal because most teen education programs only give credit to high school seniors.

Not to mention, listing this summer program on a resume looks impressive on future college applications.

Amazingly, high school sophomores can participate as well–10th graders don’t receive college credit, but they still take the same engaging courses and gain valuable experience.

Course offerings

Summer courses fall within areas: audio and music, digital arts, multimedia, and performing arts.

Film is a major field of study at Five Towns, and students get to use all the advanced film equipment from Day One—even in the summer program! Teens interested in studying film will enjoy the Intro to Filmmaking course.

In Radio & TV Broadcasting, teens learn the business from the inside-out thanks to a summer collaboration with the Great South Bay Music Festival in Patchogue. Students meet the musicians, conduct interviews, learn about stage management, and more, in this fun, hands-on class you won’t find anywhere else on Long Island.

There’s more! This summer, two new music-focused courses—Contemporary Rock Band or Beat Making, Production & Sound Design—will be offered as non-credit classes.

Flexible scheduling

Classes are offered Monday through Thursday, which means students still have Fridays free and can work around part-time jobs and family plans.

Each day is split into two sessions: Morning classes: 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. and afternoon classes: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Students can enroll in just a morning course, just an afternoon course, or stay for both sessions.

Participants also can purchase a meal card for on-site snacks and lunch, and classes take place in comfortable, air-conditioned classrooms on campus.

A six-week summer experience

The 2026 Pre-College Summer Program runs from Monday, July 6th through Thursday, August 13th. Over those six weeks, students really dive into their chosen subjects, work closely with talented instructors who work in the field, and collaborate with their summer classmates.

“I’m always so impressed that most high school students who come here are very focused; so zero’ed in, ” says Jerry Cohen, Director of Enrollment Initiatives, �鶹ӰԺ. “They know exactly what they want to major in and what they want to pursue, career-wise.”

Of course, some students aren’t sure yet, and that’s the beauty of the Pre-College Summer Program; to help them figure out what they want or don’t want.

More than just classes

Teen participants will also find plenty of opportunities to socialize and connect with their peers.

Throughout the six weeks, �鶹ӰԺ will offer campus activities such as board game sessions, ice cream socials, career and job-search discussions, radio broadcasting opportunities, and more. These optional gatherings take place during the break between morning and afternoon classes or after the day’s sessions end.

These extras add another layer to the experience. Teens aren’t just attending classes, they’re also gaining a glimpse into what college life can be like.

Celebrating student work

The summer concludes with a special social event called “The Sights and Sounds of Summer.” Family and friends visit �鶹ӰԺ to check out what students created during their six-week programs. It gives students “bragging rights” and the chance to proudly showcase their talents and hard work.

Tuition and early application incentives

The cost for most courses is $600, which covers either a three-credit college course or a non-credit class. This basically comes out to $100 per week, which is quite affordable as far as college courses go–and this fee includes the on-site social activities.

Music courses that carry one college credit are priced at $200 per course.

Students who apply by March 15 can take advantage of a special deal: if they enroll in one course, they’ll receive 50% off a second three-credit course, reducing the price of that class to $300.

(Note: The discount does not apply to one-credit music courses or the six-credit Theatre Arts Intensive.)

Application Requirements

Students interested in participating will need to submit:

A Pre-College Summer Program application
A letter of recommendation from a high school teacher or guidance counselor on official school stationery.

A summer of change

According to Cohen, most summer program participants are from central Long Island, but past students have come from Queens, the Hamptons, and even New Jersey.

“Over the years, many students have enrolled at �鶹ӰԺ after taking summer sessions here,” says Cohen. “One alumna comes to mind; she studied film and audio recording in the summer programs, enrolled at �鶹ӰԺ after high school, graduated, and since has worked at News12 and other media outlets.”

He recommends students interested in the summer program to “Give it a chance; try even one course—you might end up loving it.”

Apply today; and make it a summer to remember!

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