WVU School of Pharmacy first-year students receive white coats

Members of the West Virginia University School of Pharmacy’s Class of 2023 are now white coat official.

Faculty, staff and alumni of the School of Pharmacy welcomed 74 new students on Saturday, August 17, during the annual White Coat ceremony at the WVU Health Sciences Center.

The presentation of the white coat is symbolic as it signifies to the students that they are not only entering the study of the profession of pharmacy, but that they are also entering a commitment to be future healthcare professionals and will develop, deliver and monitor medications in an effort to improve the health, well-being and quality of life of their patients.

Dean William Petros addressed the new cohort before the presentation. He encouraged them to develop a strong support system with fellow classmates and to use the Pledge of Professionalism as a guiding beacon for the next four years and beyond.

“Similar to our WVU values of: service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation, the Pledge of Professionalism you are taking today paves the way for all you are doing on your journey,” said Petros. “You are pledging to set forth on a life marked by self-awareness, leadership, innovation, ethics, honor and professionalism as a student pharmacist, and eventually as a Doctor of Pharmacy.”

Dr. Ashlee McMillan led students as they recited the pledge. She will serve as the class’ faculty advisor.

White coats are donated each year by loved ones, faculty, staff, alumni, student pharmacists and friends. A note of encouragement from the sponsor is placed in the pocket of each coat.

If you are interested in sponsoring a white coat for a future ceremony contact the School’s Director of Development Kevin Tephabock at kevin.tephabock@hsc.wvu.edu.

Photos of the ceremony are available online at: https://wvusop.smugmug.com/2019-SoP-White-Coat-ceremony/