February 21, 2018, Clifton, NJ and Somerset, NJ – Celebrated every February since 1976, Black History Month honors the important contributions and achievements of Americans with ancestral ties to Africa and the Caribbean.

This year, American Institute’s Clifton and Somerset campuses organized a student potluck to celebrate Black History Month, encouraging students and staff to bring in favorite recipes and share their food traditions with their #AIFamily.

“American Institute is proud to take part in this national celebration,” said Christopher Coutts, President/COO. “Appreciation for diversity is an important part of our campus atmosphere. We are all enriched by the variety of cultures and traditions our students and staff bring to the learning experience.”

As part of this year’s celebration, dental assisting students learned about Robert Tanner Freeman, the nation’s first professionally trained black dentist. The child of slaves, Dr. Freeman was rejected by two dental schools before being accepted by Harvard University. He graduated four years after the Civil War ended on May 18, 1869.

“The students were fascinated to hear Dr. Freeman’s story, and very excited to share their traditional foods with their American Institute family.” said Dr. Salvatore Giardina, Somerset Director of Education. “We want to thank all our students, staff and faculty who contributed to the potluck and those who participated in this celebration.”