PA White Coat Ceremony Wrap-up

By Office of the President | Sep 9, 2025

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On Wednesday, August 27, 2025, Alumni Auditorium at Downstate Health Sciences University was filled with applause, cheers, and pride as the Physician Assistant Class of 2025 stepped onto the stage to receive their white coats. The 17th Annual White Coat Ceremony marked a powerful milestone for these future healthcare leaders, symbolizing their completion of Physician Assistant (PA) education and impending receipt of degrees to prepare for the national examination, followed by lifelong service to patients and communities.

The ceremony opened with a heartfelt welcome from Andrea Trimmingham, MA, PA-C, Chair and Program Director of the PA Program. President Wayne J. Riley, M.D., MPH, MBA, MACP, and Dean Allen Lewis, Ph.D., CRC, followed with greetings that celebrated the students鈥� accomplishments and reaffirmed Downstate鈥檚 mission to prepare a diverse, compassionate, and skilled healthcare workforce.

This year鈥檚 keynote speaker, Dawn Morton-Rias, Ed.D., PA-C, ICE-CCP, FACHE, President and CEO of the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) and Downstate鈥檚 Dean Emeritus of the College of Health-Related Professions鈥攏ow the School of Health Professions鈥攄elivered an inspirational message. She encouraged the students to wear white coats to symbolize professional achievement and a daily reminder of the empathy, cultural sensitivity, and excellence required to serve patients in one of the nation鈥檚 most vibrant and diverse communities.

Attendees enjoyed a special presentation from Samuel M谩rquez Ph.D., FAAA, Professor and Director of Gross Anatomy, who shared his perspective on the privilege of caring for patients through the study of anatomy. Dr. Marquez also received the PA Distinguished Professor Award.

Alums, faculty, and clinical leaders, including distinguished Downstate graduates and hospital partners, joined in presenting white coats, creating a powerful connection between the Class of 2025 and those who have walked the path before them. A moving musical tribute by PA student Raquel Bartocci added a personal and celebratory note.

As the students recited their professional oath under the guidance of faculty member Norman McCulloch, MBA, PA-C, the room reflected a shared moment of pride and promise. Families, friends, mentors, and colleagues witnessed the Class of 2025 launching their careers as PAs and preparing for the next phase of their journey with confidence and compassion.

The White Coat Ceremony closed with gratitude and encouragement, recognizing the faculty, staff, and offices across Downstate who support the PA Program鈥檚 success. Above all, it celebrated the students and their resilience, dreams, and commitment to keeping care close for the communities they serve.

Congratulations to the Physician Assistant Class of 2025. Your future is bright, and the journey ahead begins now.

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