Diane Amaro says that her boss took her out for lunch and marveled at her table manners. She chuckles knowing that seven years ago, she didn’t have a clue about when she should use the small fork or the big fork. After taking classes at the Development & Finishing Institute Diane is comfortable in any dining setting but more importantly she developed self-esteem and a winning attitude that she credits to DFI.
The Development and Finishing Institute opened its doors in 2002 as an after-school etiquette institute for minority and immigrant girls between the ages of 10 and 18. Fast forward six-years and DFI now offers classes for girls and boys age 5 to 18.
Beginning March 15, students will have access to a more diverse course offering. The new curriculum includes training in manners, table etiquette complete with a five course table setting, posture, and voice and diction. Rose Murdock, Executive Director, and her team will also offer classes on fashion and beauty coordination for young women, and fashion and grooming for young men. The semester culminates with a fine dining lesson at an Italian restaurant. For children ages 8 and above, a course on money management will also be available and it will teach students how to be responsible spenders and savers. Students receive a certificate of completion during an annual graduation ceremony that is cotillion inspired with formal attire and introductions.
“It is essential that today’s young people learn to develop the social and professional skills necessary for community leadership, personal development and success in business and social environments.”
Registration for the 10-week manners and etiquette classes will be held on March 8th from 12:30-3:30 PM. Classes and registration will be held on site at the Development and Finishing Institute, located at 144 West 121st Street between Malcolm X Blvd and Adam Clayton Powell Blvd. Classes begin at 1 PM on March 15. The cost is only $250 for the 10-week course, plus a $20 application fee. Installment payment arrangements are available. Classes are open to all residents of the tri-state area.
For more information on the Development and Finishing Institute and its classes, call 212-828-4530, or visit www.dfinstitute.com.
Contact: Liane Worthington
Assistant Director of Public Relations
The Wakeman Agency
lworthington@
212-500-5953 ext 118
