First-year Medicine Students Welcomed at White Coat Ceremony

The College of Medicine welcomed 174 students in the Class of 2026. The first-year medicine students arrived on campus July 18 to begin a week-long orientation culminating in the White Coat Ceremony on July 22.

Yoleetah Ilodi, M.D., assistant dean of diversity for the College, delivered the keynote address at the special event, offering thoughtful advice to the students in attendance.

“You’re committing to putting your patients first, pursuing knowledge for a lifetime and leading with intention,” said Dr. Ilodi. “This moment is twofold: it contains the joy and pride of having accomplished all you have to this point, and the realization of the gravity of the road ahead. Your path awaits, and your future is bright.”

After Dr. Ilodi’s remarks, the big moment came for an inspired group of students. Each had their name called to walk across the stage to have their white coats placed upon them by second-year medicine students who will serve as role models for the Class of 2026.

Corrie Stofcho, M.D. (’06), assistant dean of student affairs for the College, led the class in the reading of the Oath of Professional Commitment, which states in part:

I will lead my life and practice my art in uprightness and honor.

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