Students Welcomed at White Coat Ceremony

(COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS)—The Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine welcomed 153 new medical students of the Class of 2014 at the 13^th annual White Coat Ceremony on Saturday, July 31, 2010 at Rudder Auditorium on the Texas A&M University campus.

On his last official day of service, Interim Dean Dr. Ed Sherwood served as emcee to more than 450 attendees.  He explained to the students and their families that White Coat ceremonies originated in 1989 in the United States, and now several medical schools in other countries have also begun this tradition.

“The white coat symbolizes a high standard of professionalism and integrity in medical education,” Dr. Sherwood said.  “It also means that he who wears it has taken on the role of healer and of a lifelong learner.”

Dr. Sue Rudd Bailey ‘81, current president of the Texas Medical Association and alumna of College of Medicine’s charter class, served as keynote speaker.  Dr. Bailey encouraged the students to work together to form a family-like team during their time as students.

“Excellence in medicine is a habit,” said Dr. Bailey.  “It’s a way of life that each of you begins today.”

Following Dr. Bailey’s address, the students received their white coats and took an Oath of Commitment.  A reception in Rudder Exhibit Hall followed.