Class of 2019 Nursing Students Receive White Coats

Pictured: NYIT nursing students at the Nurse White Coat Ceremony at Riland Auditorium.

On November 1, 53 students in the NYIT nursing program received their white coats. This is the second time the students took part in this rite of passage, which was introduced in 2014 as a way to recognize the vital role nurses play in the healthcare system. NYIT hosted its first ceremony in 2016.

More than 100 guests gathered in Riland Auditorium to witness the students take the White Coat Oath, which states their commitment to caring for their patients, their families, and their communities, locally, nationally, and globally.

Donna Darcy, clinical instructor of Nursing and a member of the ceremony’s planning committee, introduced Jerry Balentine, D.O., vice president for medical affairs and global health, who welcomed the attendees. He was followed by Gordon Schmidt, Ph.D., professor and associate dean in NYIT School of Health Professions, who spoke about the important role nurses play in the healthcare system.

Maureen Cardoza, Ph.D., associate professor and interim chair of Nursing, said, “Nursing is among the highest-rated, trusted profession by the public. Nurses are present and ever-vigilant providing care for the ill and infirmed whether it be in the hospital, long-term care facility, in a patient’s home, their school, the workplace, or in the community setting. Nurses answer the call for help and deliver every time, everywhere.”

Newly coated nursing student Jessica Smith gave the closing remarks at the Nurse White Coat Ceremony.

Keynote speaker Elizabeth Cotter, Ph.D., associate professor at Molloy College and nurse educator at St. Francis Hospital in Roslyn, N.Y., told the students, “This ceremony is to remind you that you are ready to go out and practice…It is a journey, a process. NYIT has given you the foundation, but now it’s up to you to be present for your patients. Have a wonderful time on this wonderful journey.”

Newly coated nursing student Jessica Smith gave the closing remarks. “My thanks and gratitude to our professors and staff in the nursing department,” she said before turning her attention to her classmates. “Each one of you has cared enough and persevered to be where you are. No matter what, don’t lose your drive. And remember to believe in yourself.”