Class of 2012 White Coat Ceremony

A White Coat Ceremony was held on Friday, February 12, 2010 at 5:30 for the graduating class of 2012. 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 Mehrtens, 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 Dr. Paul Mittman, SCNM President and CEO, followed by a motivating keynote speech by Dr. Nick Buratovich, Department Chair of Physical Medicine and an SCNM founder. This was followed by two student speakers who moved the audience with their heartfelt memories of the last two years with their classmates. 

"The bonding that occurs between a class, even on their first day, is extremely powerful," stated Dean Mehrtens.

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.  

The celebration continued with family and friends and light refreshments in the lobby.