“I promise to devote myself to a lifetime of service to others through the profession of pharmacy…”

Eighty-eight Doctor of Pharmacy students recited the Oath of the Pharmacist and were officially welcomed into the profession and college during the annual White Coat Ceremony on August 21 at Hancher Auditorium in Iowa City.

Dean Donald Letendre emphasized the importance of professionalism and encouraged students to know their 'why': Why they chose the profession of pharmacy.

During the ceremony, students were coated by Clinical Professor Jay Currie, Veale Professor William Doucette, Clinical Associate Professor Deanna McDanel, and Clinical Associate Professor Jeffrey Reist. Chris Clayton, '00 PharmD and president-elect of the Iowa Pharmacy Association, gave a warm welcome on behalf of the profession. 

The event marked the end of the course, "Engagement: Professional Skills and Values," during which students were introduced to the college community and profession, learned about the curriculum, student resources, service, and outreach opportunities, and participated in self-development and awareness activities. 

The PharmD class of 2025 is 63 percent female and 37 percent male, with 67 percent coming from Iowa. The class represents 11 different states, 28 percent are underrepresented minorities, and 55 percent have a bachelor’s degree or higher.

The college also welcomed seven new graduate students last week, in Health Services Research and Pharmaceutics. During their week of orientation, they met with faculty and other graduate students, toured the new building, and received an overview of the graduate program.

We are excited for the 2021-2022 school year and are thrilled to have our halls full of activity again!