Lauderdale Lakes, FL – On Saturday February 12, 2011 American Institute School of Health Careers students participated in the 3rd Annual Black History Month Parade.  25 students along with some of their children marched proudly wearing t-shirts with an American Institute logo and a great school banner. Despite the intermittent rain that led to the parade itself being cut short, the pride of the American Institute students shone brightly as they mingled and interacted with community residents and local dignitaries. February is Black History Month; a time to remember important people, events and history from the African-American community.  Black History Month actually started as Black History Week in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson. The goal of Black History Week was to educate the American people about African-Americans’ cultural backgrounds and reputable achievements. The Black History Month Parade was an impressive event which included marching bands, community groups, floats, and music.  In the middle of all the excitement were the students from American Institute who carried the American Institute School of Health Careers banner as well as the Sigma Eta Gamma and Leadership banner with great pride through the streets of Lauderdale Lakes. Richard McCulloch, Campus President of American Institute School of Health Careers said, “African-Americans’ have a proud and strong history that deserves to be celebrated, and it was wonderful to see students and their families participating in this event that celebrates the great heritage of all African-Americans’.  Education is the key to understanding what makes us all who we are, and I hope that everyone takes some time this month to reflect on the history of our Country’s African-American population.  We must never forget the circumstances they overcame which makes their accomplishments that much greater.” Randy Proto, CEO of American Institute added, “I believe we should celebrate the accomplishments of all individuals every day, but I am realistic enough to know that we rarely stop to think about our heritage and the sacrifices others have made for us to have the ability to live the lives that we do today.  Seeing as I don’t think we stop to remember those who have come before us enough, I am gratified to know that the students from our Lauderdale Lakes campus stopped, celebrated and remembered the sacrifices and accomplishments of this Nation’s African-American population.”