Lipscomb pharmacy students hear from Winfield Dunn at first White Coat Ceremony

Janel Shoun | 08/15/2008

"From the moment that coat is placed on your shoulders, the word professionalism will become part of who you are,” former Tennessee Gov. Winfield Dunn told Lipscomb University’s first 75 pharmacy students on Friday, Aug., at Middle Tennessee’s first White Coat Ceremony.

Former Governor Winfield Dunn addresses the first class of pharamcy students.

Dean Roger Davis gives his opening remarks

Associate Dean Thomas Campbell recites the Pharamcists' Oath.

Lipscomb University College of Pharmacy class of 2012.

The ceremony, held in Willard Collins Auditorium for the students’ family and friends, is the traditional way to mark health care students’ transition from general to clinical studies, similar to nurses receiving a stethoscope as they enter clinical studies.

Each student received their first white pharmacist’s jacket, complete with a Lipscomb College of Pharmacy patch on the sleeve. “We ask that you wear it proudly but humbly,” Lipscomb Pharmacy Dean Roger Davis charged the students before the ceremonial cloaking began.

The ceremony was sponsored by Wal-Mart Stores Inc. as well as a following luncheon for the students and their guests. Wal-Mart’s Wayne Mitchell was on hand to congratulate the students.

Also in attendance at the first-time ceremony was Kevin Eidson, executive director of the Tennessee Board of Pharmacy, and Baeteena Black, executive director of the Tennessee Pharmacists Association.

Gov. Dunn, who earned a doctorate of dental surgery in the 1950’s, congratulated students on having achieved so much so far and urged them to continue building character, and relying on those of character, as they continued their education in the health field.

“Character is what has brought you to this momentous moment today and it will continue to serve you well,” he said.

These pharmacy pioneers started their new college careers off with a week packed with two days of orientation, the prayer session before their first class, and the White Coat Ceremony.

Lipscomb’s first pharmacy class heralds big change in Southeast's pharmacy future, 08/07/08