Class of 2013 White Coat Ceremony

A White Coat Ceremony was held on Friday, April 15, 2011 at 6:00 for the graduating class of 2013. This traditional ceremony has been held at SCNM twice a year since 2004. The ceremony marks the rite of passage for students' transitioning from the classroom to their clinical experience treating actual patients. 

Currently, the first two years of the students curriculum is comprised of basic sciences such as Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, etc. These courses lay the foundation for clinical entry. 

“The White Coat Ceremony is one of my favorite ceremonies we have at SCNM!" exclaimed Stephanie Smith, Dean of Students. "It is so exciting and inspiring for us all to see how these students, who came to SCNM just two years ago, have grown into individuals about to touch the lives of real patients with their positive energy, enthusiasm, and compassion. We are all very proud of them!” 

The Ceremony began with a welcome from Stephanie Smith, Dean of Students, followed by a motivating keynote speech by Dr. Sarah Hezal, Department. This was followed by Ashley Follette who moved the audience with her heartfelt memories of the last two years with their classmates. 

After the speakers, the procession began with the “coating” of the students with their new white lab coats. The class then proceeded to take the White Coat Oath promising to approach their patients individually by using the basic principles of Naturopathic Medicine: 

• Do No Harm
• The Healing Power of Nature
• Identify and Treat the Cause
• Treat the Whole Person
• Physician as Teacher
• Prevention is the Best Cure. 

Although each coat is merely a piece of white material, it signifies responsibility and knowledge. The students will begin their clinic shifts this Spring quarter and will continue their challenging and rewarding journey to becoming the best Naturopathic physicians possible.

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