White Coat Ceremony Fall 2016

Finally, the day has come for the University’s first year students in the clinical programs of optometry, audiology, physician assistant, occupational therapy and speech-language pathology to be presented with the symbol of their respected professions - the white coat - as proud relatives and friends watched. 

The ceremony took place on November 3 at Congregation Keneseth Israel Synagogue in Elkins Park. Salus University assistant provost Dr. Brooke Kruemmling welcomed students and their family and friends before introducing University president, Dr. Michael Mittleman. Explaining the significance of the white coat and its symbolic representation of each student’s transition into a clinical profession, Dr. Mittelman also encouraged students to “listen to your patients and always treat them with dignity and respect.”

Keynote speaker, Dr. Steven A. Loomis, immediate past president of the American Optometric Association, began his speech with a description of the history of the white coat and its usage in a clinical setting. He then addressed the students on the importance of working hard and the power of caring for their patients. “Patients are individuals, they are not their diagnosis,” he said. “Patient care in addition to clinical expertise requires passion and respect. Patients put their trust in you – work hard and learn much to be worthy of that trust.” His inspiring speech concluded with a direct emphasis on the broad knowledge base essential for clinicians - “great doctors never stop learning, great doctors learn from their patients.”

The students received their white coats from their respective program deans and directors. After the students were all coated and recited the Oath to Professionalism, they enjoyed light refreshments.