Duke Physician Assistant Program celebrates class of 2027 at White Coat Ceremony

The Duke University Physician Assistant Program recognized 89 students during its annual White Coat Ceremony on June 26. The ceremony is a rite of passage that signals the end of classroom learning and the beginning of clinical training.

“You are now part of the Duke legacy,” said Program Director April Stouder, EdD, MHS, PA-C, PA, in her opening remarks.

This year marked the start of a new tradition: a personalized dose of gratitude. PA program alumni wrote a note to each of the students, and they were placed inside the coat pockets to find. This new custom was organized by Averyll Aberdeen, program coordinator. 

Stouder expressed immense appreciation for faculty and staff, spoke to the history of the white coat, and emphasized the importance of treating people with compassion and humanism.  

“Wearing a white coat comes with tremendous responsibility to always put the patient first and more importantly, the person first,” she said. “It means that you commit to care for every patient with kindness and ensure the best possible care is delivered.” 

Jacquetta Melvin, MPH, PA-C, associate program director, then reflected on the class’s dedication to community service, professionalism, commitment to each other, ability to navigate challenges with grace, and offered words of wisdom as they embark in the next phase of the journey. 

“Resist the urge to react and receive feedback with openness. Take active steps to improve. But most importantly, be present, care for yourself, set boundaries, and give yourself grace,” Melvin said.  

“Please always remember it is an honor and privilege to care for your fellow humans,” Stouder said in closing.