Siu’s Dental Hygiene Program Hosts Inaugural White Coat Ceremony

CARBONDALE, Ill. — The Dental Hygiene Program at Southern Illinois University Carbondale recently launched a symbolic new tradition by hosting its inaugural white coat ceremony.

“The ceremony represents far more than the presentation of a white coat,” said Stacey McKinney, dental hygiene program director and associate professor. “It symbolizes commitment, responsibility and the transition from classroom learning to patient-centered clinical care. By donning the white coats, our students formally accept the ethical standards, professionalism, compassion and lifelong learning that define the dental hygiene profession. The white coat also serves as a visible reminder of the trust placed in dental hygienists by patients, colleagues and the communities they serve.”

While other SIU medical field programs have hosted white coat ceremonies, this is the first time for the dental hygiene program. About 90 students from all levels of the program participated, giving them the chance to enjoy the meaningful, traditional and profession-forward experience. McKinney noted that the ceremony also illustrated the program’s commitment to equity and the collective identity of the dental hygiene profession. Click here to learn more.