The second White Coat Ceremony at the URI College of Nursing was held on January 25th at 9:30 in the morning. Edward Hall was filled with a variety of friends, relatives and faculty who watched 78 new students be accepted into the College of Nursing. This continued the tradition that was started in the fall of 2015.
Interim Dean Mary Sullivan welcomed the new class for reaching this milestone in their careers. She noted that this was a rite of passage into the nursing profession. Their hard work to this point has been rewarded. Dr. Sullivan stressed the code of ethics for nursing and urged them to look at the AMA web site for further information. “It is critical that you provide the best care for your patients and communities.” She also noted the work of Florence Nightingale and cited her speech. ( insert) .
Associate Dean Pat Burbank gave a brief history of the White Coat and how it symbolized a change from apprenticeship to science for the medical professions. She noted that this was the second time the ceremony had been done at URI in what will be an annual tradition for each incoming class. Pat introduced all of the faculty and staff at the College of Nursing and stressed that they were there to help them in any way possible. She then introduced the guest speaker Pamela McCue.
Pamela is the Chief Executive Officer of the RI Nurses Institute, Middle College with a long and distinguished career in nursing administration. She is as she stated, “Also a student.” Because she is currently in the PHD program at URI. Pam congratulated the students at being accepted to the College of Nursing and went on to give a “Big Picture” of what is involved in being a nurse. “It is much more than health care out in the community.” She stressed that this was just the first step and it doesn’t end in three years. It also sets the foundation for graduate school and continuing their education. “Clinical studies are where you knowledge and skill will be put to use. It is rigorous and challenging and even a chance to be nervous, but is set up the rest of your career.” “Nursing is a team sport that involves, doctors, pharmacists, nurses, physical therapists, and administrators all working together to achieve an optimal result.” Pam also stressed the need to find mentors to help along the way. “The White Coat is perceived as a symbol of intelligence, knowledge, competence and integrity by patients and their families.” They should always do their best to live up to those expectations.
Dr. Mary Lavin gave a short speech congratulating the students on “persevering through a series of difficult courses and obtaining good grades.” She explained that there are “lots of places to go in nursing and the faculty has great expectations for the students.” “You will have to establish peer groups, be diligent and thoughtful in your studies.” She stressed that students should use the faculty and staff to help them achieve their goals. Dr. Lavin assisted by Joan Dugas then presented each student a white coat, followed by each student meeting the entire College of Nursing Staff.
After all of the coats had been presented, the students turned, faced the audience and recited the Student Nurse Oath.
Interim Dean Sullivan closed the ceremony: again congratulating them and welcoming them to White Hall where they will spend most of their time. She stressed that “everyone on the faculty and staff is there to help you with your questions, concerns or even compliments.” She also said, “Find a peer support study group, but also find time to relax and enjoy yourselves.”
