ST. LOUIS – Saint Louis University’s School of Medicine marked a pivotal milestone for 175 incoming medical students at its annual White Coat Ceremony. On Sunday, July 27, faculty, family, and friends convened at St. Francis Xavier College Church to honor the students' achievements and their forthcoming pledge to the medical profession.

Adam R. Merando, M.D., associate dean of student affairs for SLU’s School of Medicine, began the ceremony with a welcome and a reminder for students.

“The white coat worn by physicians is a symbolic representation of the intrinsic trust that you, too, will invariably earn from your patients, and should be worn with a sense of respect and pride,” Merando said.

The Rev. Nicole Armstrong, Campus Minister for SLU’s south campus, followed with an invocation. Armstrong spoke of SLU’s mission, urging students to reflect on how they can use their knowledge to serve their community. She concluded with a prayer for students, asking for guidance, perseverance, and the ability to share their love through medical service.

Christine Jacobs, M.D., vice president for medical affairs and dean of the School of Medicine, addressed the assembly, applauding the students' accomplishments and the challenging yet rewarding road ahead. She highlighted the academic rigor and the emotional breadth of experiences they will encounter, urging them to treat all patients with dignity and compassion. 

“You will see the best of humanity and experience the burden of human tragedy,” Jacobs said. “This journey will not always be easy, but it will be profoundly meaningful.”

Chad Miller, M.D., senior associate dean of undergraduate medical education, also said opening remarks, followed by Jamie Sutherell, M.D., vice chair of education in SLU’s Department of Pediatrics, Division of Cardiology, who delivered the keynote address. Sutherell echoed the importance of the doctor-patient relationship and traced the historical significance of the white coat back to the late19th century.

Alumni Share Encouragement

Each student received a letter from a member of the class of 2025 and notes of encouragement from alumni, including Sandra Lai, M.D. (Med ’97, Residency ’00 SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital) and Mark Mullen, M.D. (Med ’20).

“Congratulations on receiving your White Coat!” Lai said in her note. “You are embarking on a great education at SLUMed and will receive so much support from your professors and your fellow classmates. Remember to take breaks and sleep when you can. Give yourself grace even when you feel so exhausted and dejected. Be proud of yourself and your accomplishments. You did it!”

Mullen emphasized the exciting and change-filled few years in store for medical students.

"You are in for a tremendous period of growth over the next four years and beyond. And you are in excellent, capable hands! While you will learn an exciting amount of important scientific and clinical material, you will also encounter plenty of opportunities for growth as a whole person - mind, body, and spirit,” said Mullen, assistant professor of psychiatry and psychiatry clerkship director of the School of Medicine. “We, the faculty, are here to support you as you continue to discover and explore your vocation. Do not be afraid. The journey ahead is meaningful and beautiful. We are committed to your well-being and growth!” 

The ceremony also recognized senior students inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society, who have exemplified compassionate care and the qualities of integrity, excellence, and empathy. These students will serve as role models for the incoming class, embodying the highest standards of patient-centered care.

The class of 2029 stood to recite the Hippocratic Oath, led by the newly inducted Gold Humanism Honor Society students. Faculty members and physicians in the audience joined in, reaffirming their commitment to the ethical practice of medicine.

Meet the Class of 2029

This year, the School of Medicine received 6,672 applications. A total of 732 students were interviewed, and 175 students matriculated. The Class of 2029 is made up of 98 women and 76 men. A total of 51 students are from Missouri, with another 43 from Illinois. Other states represented included California (20), Minnesota (seven), Wisconsin (five), and Ohio (five). Five students are international.

The age range for the Class of 2029 is 21 to 37. The average age is 23. Of these students, 12 are first-generation college graduates. They represent 68 undergraduate institutions, six students earned master’s degrees, and one earned a doctorate. The average GPA is 3.91, and the average MCAT is 513.

About SLU School of Medicine

Established in 1836, Saint Louis University School of Medicine has the distinction of awarding the first medical degree west of the Mississippi River. The school educates physicians and biomedical scientists, conducts medical research, and provides health care on a local, national and international level. Research at the school seeks new cures and treatments in five key areas: infectious disease, liver disease, cancer, heart/lung disease, and aging and brain disorders. As a nationally recognized leader in research and innovation, SLU is an R1 research university, advancing groundbreaking, life-changing discoveries that promote the greater good.