On August 25th, 2026, friends and family gathered at Monmouth University’s Pollak Theater to celebrate ACI Medical & Dental School’s new graduating class of 115 students.
Althea Ford, NJBIA Vice President of Government Affairs, served as the commencement speaker. Bringing focus to the successes of the graduating class, she offered praise and encouragement about their bright futures. “You are entering into one of the most important industries in New Jersey,” she said. “Be proud of what you have accomplished, be confident in what you know, and humble enough to keep learning.”
Finally, she closed her remarks by asking the Class of 2026 to have “the courage to take the next step” for whatever comes next.
The audience also heard several inspiring student success stories from the graduates. Some touched on what this program and career mean to them on a personal level: “I get to use the skills I learned at ACI Medical & Dental School every day while caring for patients in a way that means even more to me, because I know what it feels like to be on the other side, hoping that your loved one is receiving the care they deserve,” said one student.
Another graduate offered advice to her peers, asking them to always remember that “you can be nervous, you can be unsure, you can even be scared, and you can still keep going.”
Echoing Ford’s sentiments, she continued.
“Being nervous doesn’t mean you aren’t capable, and being scared doesn’t mean you should give up. Sometimes, you just have to remember why you started, and keep working towards your next goal.”
On behalf of President Frank A. Preston and the entire staff at ACI Medical & Dental School, congratulations to our 2026 graduates! We look forward to hearing about your future success in the healthcare and dental fields.
