White Coat Ceremonies started as a ritual in medical, dental, pharmacy, veterinary, and other healthcare professions schools ― the ceremony marks the student’s transition from the study of preclinical to clinical health sciences. Many patients view the white coat as a “cloak of compassion” and a symbol of the care and hope they expect to receive from their doctors.

In 2012, Northwestern Health Sciences University started the tradition of recognizing chiropractic students entering the clinical training phase of their education by presenting them with a white coat, which they will wear throughout clinical internships. The College of Chiropractic Alumni Association agreed to provide ongoing support by purchasing the white coats for the students.

“The White Coat Ceremony is designed to signify clearly entering the health care profession. It’s a huge transition,” Dr. Foshang, Dean of the College of Chiropractic, said. “For me, it’s a wonderful time to see our students cross the proverbial gate into patient care ― moving from theory to practice.”