College of Nursing Celebrates Sophomore Class With White Coat Ceremony

The University of Cincinnati (UC) College of Nursing celebrated its White Coat Ceremony on Aug. 21, 2017, recognizing the 2017 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) sophomores for their commitment to the health care profession. UC President Neville Pinto, PhD, with Greer Glazer, PhD, dean of the College of Nursing and Dianne Felblinger, EdD, professor emerita of the College of Nursing spoke to students and their families at the event held in Great Hall, Tangeman University Center. 

"The white coat ceremony sets a standard among health care professionals,” said Glazer. "It’s been a tradition in other health care fields of study, and as nursing’s role in the clinical setting has expanded, we are increasingly leading the transformation of health care, so it only makes sense to extend this white coat ceremony to nurses.”

President Pinto mentioned that the 195 sophomores are now moving into the clinical component of their nursing studies and how important that was to their educational journey.

"As future nurses and graduates of the UC College of Nursing, we invite you to continue our legacy of leading in the profession,” said Pinto. "You are our next generation of nursing, and I cannot think from a personal perspective of a more important profession for our society.” 

Felblinger mentioned the wide variety of professional options the students will have upon graduation. 

"Knowing you have so many choices and you can have such a wonderful career, you also have the opportunity to do what you love and love what you do,” she said. "Every day is a gift. Show up in body and in spirit with a positive attitude. Be serious when you need to be but don’t forget to enjoy your life and always keep your sense of humor.”

In closing, Glazer asked the students to remember their commitment to provide the highest quality care to all patients and their families.

"You’re never going to have all the answers, and you’re not going to be able to heal everybody,” she said. "You certainly are going to be able to transform lives.”