This is a special time of year welcoming new students to the School of Medicine and feeling their excitement and energy. It is inspirational to watch students and their families experiencing the special tradition of our Stethoscope and White Coat Ceremonies.
The white coat that the students receive is more than just the fabric and stitching—it represents their commitment to uphold the highest standards of ethics and patient care. The faculty and staff look forward to mentoring, teaching and supporting each and every student as the academic year begins, celebrating the broad range and remarkable diversity of their backgrounds, communities, expertise and accomplishments.
The White Coat Ceremony for incoming medical students was held Sunday, July 14, with keynote speaker Dr. Wael Barsoum, president and chief transformation officer for the Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company. He shared this advice, ”You will meet patients on the darkest days of their lives. Walk alongside them. All of the medical knowledge in the world can't hold a candle to kindness.” He discussed the urgent need to be more equitable and ensure that every human being gets the healthcare they deserve. “We are held to a higher standard and have a moral obligation.”
The oath, written by the students and recited by them at the conclusion of the White Coat Ceremony reflected their earnest commitment to the study of medicine.