UNR Med celebrates the arrival of the M.D. Class of 2028 | University of Nevada, Reno

The White Coat Ceremony for incoming medical students is a profound and symbolic event, marking the official start of their journey into the medical profession. Since 1996, the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med) has welcomed a new class of first-year medical students with the White Coat Ceremony. This year, on August 10, 2024, UNR Med welcomed 71 students to the M.D. Class of 2028 at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Reno.

The ceremony signifies the students’ commitment to the values of compassion, integrity and excellence in patient care. As they donned their white coats for the first time, these aspiring physicians embarked on a path of lifelong learning and dedication to improving the health and well-being of others.

“This is a special day because it signifies the first tangible step in a long and complex path to becoming a physician,” UNR Med Dean Paul J. Hauptman, M.D., said. “So, while this path of education is difficult and you will sacrifice time with friends and family, you are making a commitment today to a noble profession, one that the public implicitly understands is a profession of sacrifice.”

Nevada Assemblyman Reuben D’Silva, keynote speaker at this year’s ceremony, delivered a powerful message to the Class of 2028. Drawing from his journey as an immigrant, marine, educator and patient, he highlighted the importance of compassionate, patient-centered care.

D’Silva emphasized, “Compassion is the bridge that connects science to humanity. It is what turns a good doctor into a healer, and what allows for the building of trust and strong relationships that are essential for positive health care outcomes. Always remember, patients may forget your name, but they will never forget how you made them feel and how much you cared for them.”

Each student’s path to the White Coat Ceremony is unique, marked by personal achievements and steadfast determination. Donning the white coat represents the beginning of a new chapter for these future physicians, blending personal passion with professional dedication. The ceremony concluded with the Honor Pledge, underscoring their commitment to the path ahead.

The Class of 2028 is a diverse group of future physicians, ranging in age from 21 to 40. With 33 students who completed their undergraduate studies at the University of Nevada, Reno, and 32 hailing from Nevada, the class reflects a strong connection to the state. They have demonstrated strong academics across a wide range of majors, including biology, chemistry, neuroscience, psychology, global politics, business administration, mechanical engineering, anthropology, biomedical engineering and public health.

Class Highlights:

• 11 students are first-generation medical students
• 8 students have ties to rural communities
• The class speaks a combined 22+ languages

Explore more of the magic from this year’s White Coat Ceremony