Welcome, New MedOwls!

This afternoon, I had the honor of joining the Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine to welcome a new class of medical students during its annual White Coat Ceremony. With this symbolic rite of passage, the members of the Class of 2028 began their journey into medical school and took their first steps as MedOwls.

During the ceremony, students were cloaked with white coats to signify their transition from preclinical studies to the clinical phase of medical education. The Arnold P. Gold Foundation also generously provided them with “Humanism in Medicine” lapel pins — a tradition that began with the first White Coat Ceremony in 1993. Additionally, the Palm Beach County Medical Society welcomed each student with a new stethoscope to symbolize the knowledge, dedication and care required of them as physicians.

To affirm their commitment as medical students and future physicians, the students then recited an oath together, which was written collectively as an expression of their dedication to the medical profession.

Earlier this week, the college also hosted its annual White Coats-4-Care fundraiser event to support important initiatives, including student scholarships, research opportunities and expanded enrollment. We are thankful to the many sponsors, attendees and donors who joined us in celebration and support of our medical program and its students.

As our MedOwls move forward in their training, I have no doubt that the leaders in the Schmidt College of Medicine will ensure they receive a world-class education and unparalleled outcomes. We look forward to preparing the Class of 2028 to become the next generation of outstanding, patient-centered physicians that our communities need.