School of Medicine

WVU School of Medicine Celebrates the 2007 White Coat Ceremony

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“The responsibilities of medicine are great, yet this profession is one of joy and fulfillment,” Dr. Norman Ferrari told students in his opening remarks at the 2008 White Coat Ceremony. This ceremony, named for former dean of students, John W. Traubert was held at the Metropolitan Theatre on March 14. Dr. Ferrari is the Senior Associate Dean for Medical Education at WVU.

The White Coat Ceremony, established at WVU in 1996, was designed to help students in the second year of training reaffirm the reasons for choosing medicine as their lives’ work just at the time they are embarking on clinical training and developing relationship with patients. The Ceremony emphasizes the physician’s two-fold responsibility to take care of and to care for patients.

Dean John E. Prescott welcomed the faculty members present, representing more than 600 faculty at the WVU School of Medicine dedicated to the teaching and guidance of medical students. He said, “This ceremony will serve to renew your commitment to mentoring and preparing our students to become the next generation of WVU physicians, ones with compassionate hearts, sharp minds, and skilled hands.”

Dr. David M. Morgan, president of the WVU Alumni Association, was the guest speaker. Dr. Morgan spoke to the Class of 2010 saying, “You are nearing the completion of your basic science studies, the bedrock of your medical education. The clinical years ahead are a complex mixture of science and art, emphasizing teamwork, communication and empathetic understanding.”

Associate Dean for Student Services and Professional Development, Anne Cather introduced each of the ninety-six students for presentation of the white coats. Guest coaters were Dr. Mitch Jacques, Associate Vice President and Dean of the Eastern Division, and Dr. James Griffith, Associate Dean for Students at the Charleston Division.

The Class of 2010 recited the Oath of Hippocrates, led by Dr. John Traubert. Following the Ceremony, students joined more than 500 family members and guests for a reception at the Clarion Hotel Morgan.