The dental class of 2009 and the dental hygiene class of 2008 were welcomed into clinical practice at a “White Coat Ceremony” held in Coffman Union Great Hall on June 8, 2007. A traditional rite of passage in many health profession programs, the ceremony recognized 108 third year dental students (including 10 PASS students) and 21 sophomore dental hygiene students for achieving an advanced level of scientific knowledge and technical skills, and marked their transition from classroom into patient clinics.
Welcoming the students as colleagues-in-training were Drs. Robert Hirsch, Associate Dean of Clinical Affairs and Barbara Brandt, Assistant V.P. for Education (AHC). Dr. Loren Taple, President of the SOD Alumni Society, extended greetings. Ms. Lisa Ahmann, Clinic Director, Division of Dental Hygiene, introduced and addressed the dental hygiene class, and Dr. Judith Buchanan, associate dean of academic affairs, introduced and addressed the 3rd year dental students. Other faculty participants were: Drs. Patrick Lloyd, Edward Combe, and Gary Anderson. The guest speaker was St. Paul dentist Norman Coates, who spoke about professionalism and the privileges of patient care.
Students and practicing professionals affirmed their commitment to uphold the ideals of the profession. Ms. Ahmann led dental hygiene students, dental hygiene faculty and practicing colleagues in reciting the American Dental Hygienists’ Association Code of Ethics. Dr. Lloyd led dental students and dentists in reciting the Minnesota Oath of New Dental Practitioners. A reception for the 500+ participants and guests followed the program.