News 2016: Sophomore nursing students to earn rite of passage at White Coat Ceremony

White Coat Ceremony underpins idea that compassionate care is the hallmark of clinical practice

For the second year in a row, UMass Dartmouth’s College of Nursing will celebrate an important milestone for sophomore students beginning their experience in the clinical learning environment. College of Nursing Dean Dr. Kimberly Christopher will join nursing faculty, students and their families for the White Coat CeremonyWednesday, February 17, 5-7 p.m., at the University’s Main Auditorium. More than 90 students make up the sophomore class within the College of Nursing.

The White Coat Ceremony is a rite of passage marking the transition for sophomore nursing students from classroom learning to clinical learning at health care organizations.  The white coat symbolizes the science of nursing and commitment to providing safe, compassionate, and patient centered care. 

During the ceremony students will don their white lab coats and receive a specially designed pin that serves as a visual reminder of their oath and commitment to providing quality care.  The ceremony underpins the idea that compassionate care is the hallmark of clinical practice.

UMass Dartmouth’s College of Nursing received support from the Arnold P. Gold Foundation last year to begin this tradition.