Students make their way to class on the first day of AIC’s fall 2025 semester. (Photo by Leon Nguyen/AIC)
The fall semester is officially underway at American International College (AIC). On the morning of September 2, the campus came alive as students returned for the start of classes, including more than 350 new first-year and transfer students joining the AIC community. This year’s incoming class was selected from more than 4,000 applications, reflecting strong interest in AIC’s academic programs and supportive learning environment.
“The start of a new academic year always brings tremendous energy to campus, and this class is no exception,” said Provost Michael Dodge. “Our incoming students represent a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and aspirations, and we are proud to welcome them into the AIC community. They embody the promise of what higher education can achieve—expanding opportunity, preparing future leaders, and strengthening the city of Springfield, Western Massachusetts, and beyond.”
Among the 1,000 undergraduates enrolled for the fall 2025 semester, Nursing and Criminal Justice are the most popular majors, with more than 300 students combined. These programs prepare graduates for careers in fields with high workforce demand. The undergraduate population reflects the College’s mission of access and opportunity, with students representing a wide range of racial and ethnic backgrounds, including Hispanic/Latino (29%), Black/African American (27%), White (26%), and students from 40 countries worldwide.
Earlier this year, AIC achieved federal designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), a distinction that highlights the College’s commitment to supporting Hispanic/Latino students while enhancing programs and opportunities for the entire community. This milestone aligns with broader national trends: September 8–14, 2025, has been designated National Hispanic-Serving Institutions Week, and Hispanic enrollment in higher education is projected to reach 4.4 million by 2030.
Ahead of the semester, AIC welcomed alumnus Devonte Dillion back to campus as the keynote speaker for New Student Orientation. Dillion, a 2017 graduate with a degree in communications and a minor in marketing, later earned his MBA from AIC in 2019. During his time at AIC, he played in every football game from 2013 to 2017 and earned Northeast-10 All-Conference First Team honors in his senior year.
AIC alumnus Devonte Dillion delivers a keynote speech during New Student Orientation on August 29 in the College's Griswold Theatre (photo by Leon Nguyen/AIC)
Now CEO & Co-Founder of Dilligence Training in East Hartford, CT, Dillion thanked AIC President Nicolle Cestero and her leadership team for the opportunity to speak to a new generation of learners. “Being back on campus affirmed something I’ve always believed: this is the impact that comes from making meaningful connections and staying rooted in purpose,” he said. “As an alum, it means so much to contribute value to a place that shaped me, and I look forward to building upon this relationship with AIC.”
During his remarks, Dillion encouraged students to take what they learn at AIC and apply it with intention. “Don’t just chase success—define it on your terms, with discipline, intentionality, and integrity.”
As the campus buzzes with activity, AIC looks forward to another year of learning, growth, and community, celebrating both the achievements of its students and the milestones that reflect its ongoing commitment to access, diversity, and excellence.