On Aug. 8, the faculty of the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons welcomed 140 students into the medical profession with the annual White Coat Ceremony.
The White Coat Ceremony was founded at Columbia's medical school 32 years ago by the late Arnold P. Gold, MD, professor of neurology and pediatrics, to reinforce the humanistic goals of medical practice as students begin their training to become physicians and educators.
"The need for individuals who are dedicated to compassionate healing has never been greater," said Monica Lypson, MD, the Rolf H. Scholdager Professor of Medicine and vice dean for medical education at VP&S. "Wearing the white coat is a symbol of great responsibility and humility, and a reminder that all of your efforts as physicians must be focused on easing patients' suffering."
New medical students were cloaked by several members of the VP&S faculty: Michael Argenziano, Michelle W. Bell, Maria H. De Miguel, Muredach P. Reilly, Daichi Shimbo, and Jatin M. Vyas. Photo by Michael DiVito for Columbia University Irving Medical Center.
Jean C. Emond, MD, the Thomas S. Zimmer Professor of Reconstructive Surgery (in Pediatrics) and vice chair of the Department of Surgery, gave the keynote address and reflected on the advancements in his field of liver transplantation made possible by the imagination and perception of innovative physicians. "As doctors, suffering is before us all the time, in the front of our minds, and we strive to relieve it," said Emond. "Our vision must guide us, along with our colleagues, forward as we seek to heal those who are sick."
After being cloaked in their white coats by VP&S faculty members, the students recited an Oath in the Hippocratic tradition, written by members of the Class of 2029, and voted on by the class, that reflects the values they are committed to upholding as they begin their medical training.
The class is the fifth at VP&S to create and recite their own oath since the new tradition began in 2021.
