D1s Receive White Coats

Continuing a tradition established last year, first-year dental students at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry received the white coats they will wear in clinics during a formal ceremony October 10.

The ceremony, attended by family members and friends of the first-year students, was held at Rackham Auditorium on the U-M campus.

School of Dentistry alumnus, Dr. Raymond Gist (Class of 1966), who is now the President of the Michigan Dental Association, was the keynote speaker.

Dr. Gist challenged the D1s to put their special talents to work, not only during their years of study at the U-M School of Dentistry, but throughout their professional careers.

Congratulating the students on being accepted, he said, “Your education will be earned, not received.” He also stressed the responsibility of providing ethical service to the public and to be self-regulating.

You can hear more of Dr. Gist’s remarks by clicking here.

Other speakers were Afua Mireku, president of the Dental Class of 2004, and Dr. Aleco Tujios, president of the Dental Class of 2003. You can listen to their remarks by clicking their name. Their remarks have been edited so you can listen in any order you choose.
###

The Oath of Aspiring Dental Professionals
(Drafted by the Class of 2004; Recited by the Class of 2007)

Dedication to my career goals has earned me an honorable position in the dental community. This is a privilege that comes with considerable responsibility to my patients, my colleagues, and other health professionals.

I will be committed to disciplined academic studies and the competent and knowledgeable practice of dentistry.

I will work with my peers to establish an atmosphere of honesty and collegiality, thereby fostering collaborative learning. I will actively participate in my community and respect the confidence entrusted in me by my patients.

I understand that the foundation of my education built here at the University of Michigan provides the framework for my continued education. I will acknowledge the changes and advancement of the profession over time, recognize my limitations, and be committed to a lifetime of learning.

I will uphold the highest level of professionalism throughout my dental career and enrich the legacy of my predecessors.

back to top

return to dental news