SIU SDM Students Receive Traditional White Coats

Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine (SIU SDM) first-year students, along with students in the International Advanced Placement Program (IAPP) received the traditional coat of medical professionals, during the School’s 19^th annual White Coat Ceremony held Friday, Oct. 4 in the Hatheway Cultural Center at Lewis & Clark Community College in Godfrey.

The first-year cohort of 50 students, and seven IAPP students, took the professional oath of ethics and committed to uphold the School’s values of service, respect, integrity, compassion and competence.

“The White Coat Ceremony is an important event in the lives of our first-year dental students,” said SIU SDM Dean Bruce Rotter, DMD. “The ceremony signifies the official entry into the profession of dentistry and is based on the students’ understanding of the ethical codes that direct us as a profession. As dental practitioners, it is incumbent on each of us to treat our patients in an ethical manner, as well as with integrity and respect.”

The keynote speaker was Dr. Timmothy Schwartz, Illinois State Dental Society (ISDS) interim executive director and ISDS Foundation treasurer. Schwartz graduated from University of Illinois College of Dentistry in 1979 and has more than 30 years of private practice experience. He has served on the Illinois State Board of Dentistry and is a Fellow in the International College of Dentists, as well as the American College of Dentists. He is also active in the American Dental Association and the Peoria District Dental Society. He received the ISDS President’s Award in 2014 for his dedication and commitment to the ISDS.

The SIU SDM White Coat Ceremony was sponsored by the Central Illinois Academy of General Dentistry, Illinois Section of the American College of Dentists, Illinois State Dental Society Foundation and the Eighth District of the International College of Dentists.

 Photo: SIU School of Dental Medicine first-year students, along with students in the International Advanced Placement Program (IAPP) received their traditional coat of medical professionals.