A Momentous Step in a Medical Career
On September 8, 179 Osteopathic Medicine (COM) students and 138 students enrolled in The College of Health and Human Services (CHHS) at Touro University Nevada donned their white coats in this honorary ceremony that marks student’s first steps in their medical education journey.
“The white coat is highly symbolic and has a long history behind it, representing a commitment to professionalism, purity, and the ethical practice of medicine,” says Dr. Andrew Priest, Campus President and Provost. “This ceremony has a special place in our hearts this year as we celebrate our twentieth anniversary, marking a major milestone for the university and symbolizing a significant moment of transition and achievement for our students as they embark on their medical journeys.”
Dr. Priest, Dean Gilliar of Osteopathic Medicine, and Dean Askey of CHHS lead the ceremonies where friends and families of students witnessed their student walk on stage and don their white coat with the help of that program’s director. The event culminated with students taking the white coat professional pledge that will serve as a reminder of their commitment to patient care and medical ethics.
“It is an honor that is a long time coming,” said Kevin Wallace, physician assistant student. “As an older student I have been working towards this for a long time and I know my family is excited to see me here to celebrate all the hard work be rewarded.”
At this year’s white coat ceremony, a little over half of the students are female, reflecting a diverse and dynamic cohort. Notably, 79% of the Osteopathic Medicine class hails from outside Nevada, and 56% in the College of Health and Human Services. Each year, Touro University Nevada significantly contributes to the state's healthcare system by adding approximately 120 primary care providers, boasting an impressive 100% placement rate for graduates.
“The white coat means to me an accumulation of all the hard work and ups and downs that I’ve endured to get to this point,” said Raymond Alves, physician assistant student. “My dad was my idol in helping people, and to me healing people is helping and I want to make the same impact he made.”
Watch the full white coat ceremonies:
College of Osteopathic Medicine
College of Health and Human Services
