SIU School of Dental Medicine Students Welcomed to the Profession at Annual White Coat Ceremony
The 2019 class of the Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine was formally introduced to the profession of dentistry at the School’s annual White Coat Ceremony held Saturday, Oct. 3. With the acceptance of the traditional coat of medical professionals, the cohort of 52 students committed to uphold the School’s values of service, respect, integrity, compassion and competence.
Dr. Cissy K. Furusho, diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentists and chair of the Illinois Section of the American College of Dentists, gave the keynote address. Furusho emphasized that the students were starting a journey with endless opportunities. She encouraged them to hold true to their inspiration.
“Do you remember when you found out you were accepted to dental school and you were going to be a dentist?” Furusho asked. “Do you remember the feeling? I get chills just thinking about it.
“There will be days that you may not do well on an exam or the margin of your crown won’t be just perfect,” she continued. “But your passion for the profession, knowing why you are doing what you’re doing, and holding onto that feeling, will carry you through.”
At the ceremony, the students signed and recited the Professional Oath, pledging to the “service of humanity, my patients, my community and my profession.”
Photo: SIU School of Dental Medicine Class of 2019.
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