Baptist University Honors Future Nurses at White Coat Ceremony

On February 26, 2026, the Baptist University College of Nursing hosted its fifth White Coat Ceremony in the Campus Hub Gymnasium, honoring the Class of Fall 2027. This meaningful rite of passage not only highlights the importance of compassionate patient care early in nursing education but also marks a defining moment in the professional journey of future nurses.

Dr. Cathy Stepter, Dean of the College of Nursing, opened the ceremony with a warm welcome to students, families, and guests. Mira Washington, BUSNA President-Elect, shared a scripture reading, followed by an opening prayer from Ann Dangha, BUSNA President.

The program featured remarks from Dr. Cheryl Johnson-Joy, Associate Dean of Nursing, who introduced Kenyon Page, Baptist Health Sciences University Alum, as the alumnus speaker. Dr. Stepter then welcomed guest speaker Dr. Anne Plumb, Dean Emerita.

A total of twenty-two students were cloaked in their white coats and received nursing pins during the ceremony. Students were cloaked by Dr. Angel Boiling, BSN Chair.

Led by Dr. Laritha Hill Sweet, the newly cloaked students held nursing lamps and recited the University’s Nursing Clinical Pledge, reaffirming their dedication to compassionate, ethical, and patient-centered care—a symbolic commitment to the values at the heart of the profession.

Dr. Ivy Anderson, Nursing Faculty, delivered closing remarks, followed by a prayer from Rusty Woods, Director of Faith Integration and Service Chaplain. The ceremony concluded with a reception celebrating this milestone moment in the students’ nursing journey.