White Coat and Pinning Ceremony Welcomes Class of 2026

Two hundred and four aspiring physicians in the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine Class of 2026 made their formal entry into medical education during the fourth annual John G. Clarkson White Coat and Freshman Pinning Ceremony.

The Miller School’s latest cohort celebrated the special occasion during Friday’s event at the Watsco Center. Henri R. Ford, M.D., M.H.A., dean and chief academic officer of the Miller School, regards the occasion as one of the most cherished traditions in medical education.

“You are embarking on what is simultaneously the greatest journey and the most rewarding adventure of your lifetime,” Dean Ford said. “This white coat symbolizes authority and empowerment, but most importantly, it is a beacon of hope. By encompassing character, compassion, sensitivity, patience, honesty, and integrity, you will have the qualities that are the essential scaffold of a successful physician. Let this white coat remind you to exhibit these attributes for the rest of your lives.”

Pivotal Times

The Class of 2026 is entering medical school during a critical time in public health, and will take part in several milestones as the 70th class in the Miller School’s history, during the University’s centennial, said Julio Frenk, M.D., M.P.H., Ph.D., president of the University of Miami.

“We are focused on future medical and higher education leaders,” President Frenk said. “You are one of the earliest classes learning from one of the most innovative medical curriculums in the world, which will shape you for the challenges of the future. Your profession is being called on to serve with courage, care, and compassion. Donning the white coat means you are fully embracing those virtues.”

Latha Chandran, M.D., M.P.H., executive dean for education and policy, founding chair of the Department of Medical Education, and Bernard J. Fogel Chair in Medical Education, noted that family and friends of the Class of 2026 students played a vital role in helping the students achieve this milestone.

“This is a great moment in your lives and for those who supported you,” Dr. Chandran said. “Take in this moment and absorb its special significance for yourself and your family. Fill your minds with tremendous gratitude for the people helping you along the way.”

Ryan Huang, Class of ’26, understood this sentiment. He is following in his mother’s footsteps by attending the Miller School.

“Miller has a great track record for the physicians it develops; my mom came here for her start in medicine,” Huang said. “When I picture myself as a doctor in a few years, I hope I’m a little more confident and self-aware, and my patients trust me as I do everything I can to help them.”

Humanistic Medicine

Daniel Lichtstein, M.D., regional dean for medical education and this year’s keynote speaker, reminded the class of the importance of connecting with patients and practicing the art of attentive listening.

“By getting to know patients’ stories and perhaps letting them know ours, we might add a link to the chain of trust,” Dr. Lichtstein said. “My message to you is that we owe it to our patients not to allow anything to get in the way of what they each deserve.”

Coats of Honor

Following Dr. Lichtstein’s words of wisdom, each student took the stage to don their white coat and collect their pin. Each student also received a stethoscope as a gift from the Miller School Medical Alumni Association.

“I want to be a doctor because it gives me the chance to make decisions with patients that can be life changing,” said Jordan Czerwiec, Class of ’26. “I love being a part of that.”

A gallery of photos from the ceremony is available here.

Tags: Dean Henri Ford, John G. Clarkson White Coat and Pinning Ceremony, medical alumni, Medical Alumni Association, Miller School of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine Class of 2026, President Julio Frenk