Cary Epstein
Assistant Dean for the College of Education, Information and TechnologyProfessor
Cary.Epstein@liu.edu
Description
Cary Epstein serves as the Assistant Dean of the College of Education, Information & Technology at Long Island University (LIU). With over 20 years of experience in education, he has dedicated his career to teaching health and physical education on Long Island and within the New York City Department of Education, inspiring students to prioritize health, wellness, and lifelong learning.
Epstein first joined LIU in 2011 as an adjunct professor and, in 2018, transitioned to a full-time role as the Director of Health and Physical Education. In 2020, he was appointed Assistant Dean, where he oversees not only the Department of Teaching and Learning but also the Department of Counseling and Development, the Palmer School of Library and Information Science, and the Department of Educational Leadership and Technology. His leadership focuses on enhancing teacher preparation, student development, and innovative educational practices across multiple disciplines.
Beyond his contributions to higher education, Epstein is the proud founder and motivational speaker for The M.A.C.H.O. Foundation, an organization built on the principle that "My Actions Can Help Others." Through this initiative, he empowers individuals—especially students—to embrace kindness, leadership, and positive action in their communities.
Epstein is also an expert in water safety and emergency response, with 28 years of experience as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and ocean lifeguard at New York's world-famous Jones Beach. His dedication to lifesaving earned him the distinction of New York State’s "Lifeguard of the Year" in 2017. He is also the proud author of "Lifeguarding for Dummies," a comprehensive guide to the skills, certifications, and physical training required for lifeguarding.
His passion for health and fitness was inspired by his late grandfather, fitness pioneer and bodybuilding icon Dan Lurie. He continues to honor his grandfather’s legacy by living and sharing his lifelong motto: "Health Is Your Greatest Wealth." This philosophy is central to Epstein’s teaching, mentorship, and approach to student success.
An accomplished triathlete, Epstein has completed four full Ironman Triathlons (swim 2.4 miles, Bike 112 miles, run 26.2 miles) and seven full marathons. He continues to serve as an EMT with his local volunteer fire department and holds leadership roles in multiple emergency response organizations. His commitment to education, health, and community service is evident in his work, making a lasting impact at LIU and beyond.
