A Ceremonial Celebration of White Coats

On March 26, Florida Atlantic’s Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing hosted its annual White Coat Ceremony at the Carole and Barry Kaye Auditorium. The longstanding tradition marked a major milestone for more than 170 first-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) students, who received their white coats and formally stepped into the nursing profession, symbolizing their dedication to compassion, care, and professionalism.

The ceremony featured a welcome address from the College’s Dean, Dr. Cameron Duncan, along with remarks from Dr. Colin Polsky, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs for Broward Campuses and Professor of Geosciences.

“As you continue your studies, I encourage you to take full advantage of the opportunities that exist across the university, from mentorship and research opportunities to partnerships with healthcare providers throughout the region,” Dr. Polsky shared with the BSN students.

Alumna Taren O’Brien, vice president and chief nursing officer at Holy Cross Hospital, delivered the keynote address, urging students to aim high in their nursing careers. “Be the nurse,” she said, whether through the application of clinical skills or by offering steady support to patients and families in their most vulnerable moments. She encouraged the families in attendance to stand behind their future nurses, recognizing that the demands of the profession may leave them without words to fully share their daily experiences.

Following the Keynote Speaker, several faculty members assisted with the donning of the white coats. The event concluded with the recitation of the White Coat Ceremony Oath, led by Dr. Joy Longo, associate dean of academic programs and associate professor. The oath serves as a solemn promise by these students to uphold the highest standards of responsibility and care throughout their nursing journey.

Enjoy photos of this event HERE .