Islip Native Gives Commencement Address At Georgian Court University

ISLIP, NY — Islip native Hunter Rindos was selected to address his graduating class at Georgian Court University’s 2026 undergraduate commencement.

Rindos grew up in Islip and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a minor in business administration from Georgian Court University in Lakewood, New Jersey. He plans to pursue a career in law enforcement

Rindos was named the 2026 Undergraduate Commencement Speaker and spoke to classmates about growth, community and the support system they found at the university.

“We’ve discovered strengths we didn’t know we had, and we’ve built friendships and connections that will last a lifetime,” Rindos said in his commencement address, according to the university. “Georgian Court didn’t just give me an education; it gave me a support system that helped me grow stronger and helped me be more confident.”

Rindos was inspired early by his grandfather, a detective in Nassau County, and by family and friends in law enforcement, according to Georgian Court. After graduation, he plans to enter a police academy and begin his career in law enforcement.

“When I got the message asking to come to the Dean’s office, I thought I was in trouble,” Rindos said. “When they told me I was selected to speak, I was honestly shocked. But I’m excited and ready for it.”

Rindos said Georgian Court was the right fit because he wanted to attend college away from home, but not too far, and preferred a smaller school environment.

“From the start, I felt like I belonged here,” he said.

During his time at Georgian Court, Rindos was a four-year member of the men’s lacrosse team, where he played defense and helped the team win a conference championship last year.

“Being part of the team gave me some of my closest friendships,” he said. “It really shaped my experience here.”

He thanked Coach Mickey Hover for helping shape his college experience.

“I want to thank Coach Hover for giving me the opportunity to come to GCU, believing in me, and teaching me lessons on and off the field that shaped who I am,” Rindos said.

Rindos also served as president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee for two years, working with administrators and student representatives to improve the student-athlete experience.

One project he helped launch was a campus refuel station, a grab-and-go space stocked with snacks for busy students and athletes.

“It was something I was working on for a while, so seeing it finally come together was a great feeling,” he said.

Rindos also served as a resident assistant for three years, a role he said helped him connect with students across campus.

“I’ve met people I probably wouldn’t have met otherwise,” he said. “Just being there for people has been one of the best parts of that role.”

His interest in law enforcement was reinforced in a criminal justice systems class taught by Professor Mitch Little, a former police chief, according to Georgian Court.

“Hearing his stories and learning from his experience really opened my eyes,” Rindos said. “That class made me realize this is exactly what I want to do.”

Rindos was active in community service efforts through campus organizations and Campus Ministry, including Read Across America programs at local schools, work with the Boys and Girls Club, clothing and food drives, and holiday donation efforts in the Lakewood community.

“Giving back has always been important to me,” he said. “It’s something I grew up with, and it’s something I want to carry into my career.”

Georgian Court conferred 540 degrees during its 115th annual commencement ceremonies, including 363 bachelor’s degrees, 171 master’s degrees and 6 doctoral degrees, according to the university.

Rindos was selected by his classmates to receive the Kingdon Gould Jr. Award, which recognizes the student who contributed the most to Georgian Court’s general welfare, according to the university. He was also the bearer of the Class of 2026 flag.

He credited Georgian Court’s Mercy Core Values, especially respect and integrity, with helping shape how he plans to approach his future.

“Those are things I try to live by every day,” he said. “They’re going to stay with me wherever I go next.”