White Gown Ceremony Held at UNPHU

The Faculty of Health Science and the School of Medicine of Universidad Nacional Pedro Henríquez Ureña, celebrated the ceremony of the White Gown; moment that symbolizes the completion of the cycle of study of Basic Sciences and begins clinical practices, which leads the student to direct contact with the patient. The purpose of this celebration is that the student who begins the pre-boarding cycle is committed to Medicine, with the respect, seriousness and confidence that inspires this new investiture, emblem of the profession for more than two centuries.

Welcoming words were given by Dr. William Duke dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences. Patricia Matos, academic vice chancellor, offered a few words of encouragement, while Adrian De Oleo, dean of Student Welfare, addressed the students, motivating them to continue. The delivery and placement of the white gowns was in charge of the coordinator of the Cycle of Clinical Sciences, in the company of the dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences. The Geneva Declaration was then read by Dr. Celida Rivas, coordinator of the Clinical Cycle.  The speech, on behalf of the students, was given by Angie Rojas De la Cruz, while the closing words of the ceremony were offered by Dr. Claudia Sharf, director of the School of Medicine.

The event was attended by doctors Jehison Corporán, academic coordinator; Jorge Jaime Manzur, professor of honor and Dr. Mariela Pinales. 

The activity took place on July 17, 2023, in the Max Henríquez Ureña hall, and was attended by 34 students.

About the White Coat

The White Gown originated at the Pritzker School of Medicine at the University of Chicago in 1989; but the first full ceremony took place at Columbia University School of Physicians and Surgeons in 1993. Dr. Arnold P. Gold, professor, and pediatric neurologist oversaw it.