Waynesburg University hosted its second annual White Coat Ceremony for sophomore nursing students Saturday, Oct. 29, in Roberts Chapel on the University’s main campus.
“The purpose [of the event] is to acknowledge the importance of compassion,” said Dr. Kathy Stolfer, director of nursing at Waynesburg University. “At the beginning of the professional educational program, students take an oath. They sign a pledge to be compassionate and caring and receive a pin in recognition.”
According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) website, “When nurses and other healthcare providers build caring, trusting and collaborative relationships with patients, studies reveal a connection to better care decision, improved patient adherence to treatment plans, and less costly healthcare outcomes.”
A virtual keynote address was given by Chief Nursing Officer Rear Admiral Aisha K. Mix, an experienced clinician, public health practitioner, educator and emergency manager.
Rear Admiral Mix was introduced by Dr. Richard I. Levin, president and CEO of the Gold Foundation, and Dr. Deborah Trautman, PhD, RN, FAAN, president and CEO of the AACN.
The ceremony also included remarks by Dr. Stolfer and Waynesburg University President Douglas G. Lee.
Last year, the University received funding from the Gold Foundation to host its inaugural White Coat Ceremony, which has become more widely available for nursing students.
The Gold Foundation, in conjunction with the AACN, provides the resources and support to medical schools and nursing schools to conduct White Coat Ceremonies.
