At the annual ritual of the White Coat Ceremony at the UNR School of Medicine, the university welcomed the 71 students of the incoming class of 2028 for an exacting academic road to becoming a physician to serve humanity.

The White Coat Ceremony is an iconic ritual that emphasizes compassionate, collaborative, scientifically excellent care from the first day of training in healthcare. During the ceremony, a white coat is placed on each student’s shoulders, signifying their entrance into the medical profession and commitment to the code of ethics and serving humanity. The ceremony marks the beginning of students’ intensive journey to becoming physicians and often concludes with the Hippocratic Oath.

UNR School of Medicine Dean Dr. Paul Hauptman, M.D., addressed students’ families and invited friends. “This is a special day because it signifies the first tangible step in a long and complex path to becoming a physician,” said Dr. Hauptman in welcoming the newly admitted students.

He continued, “First and foremost, we understand what you’re about to go through; the dean, staff, the faculty, and everyone around us is committed to your success. While this path of education is difficult, and you will sacrifice time with friends and family, you are making a commitment today to a noble profession, one that the public implicitly understands is a profession of sacrifice.”

The keynote speaker, Assemblyman Reuben D’Silva, was introduced by Dean Hauptman for his long record of dedication to service as an immigrant to the United States.

D’Silva, in addressing future physicians, pinpointed the beginning of their commitment to the betterment of society. “White coat is that you dawn today is more than just a piece of clothing; it is a symbol of purity, a fresh start, and of the high standards of ethics and professionalism you are expected to uphold it hold,” said Assemblyman D’Silva. “It represents the trust and respect that patients and society have placed in you; when you wear this coat, you not only embracing the role of a healer but also the mantle of the lifelong learner, a compassionate caregiver and dedicated advocate of your patients.”

The class of 2028 has over 10 Indian-American students, a couple of whom are from Las Vegas.