University of Illinois College of Medicine Celebrates 2025 White Coat Ceremonies
Welcoming a New Class of Medical Students
The University of Illinois College of Medicine held its 31st annual White Coat Ceremony on each of its campuses on Friday, August 15, 2025. Over 300 incoming M1s were celebrated by their friends, families, and communities as they received their white doctor’s coats, symbolizing their pledge to the embodiment of humanism in medicine from the beginning of their medical education.
White Coat Ceremony Slideshow
Chicago Campus
Chicago Campus Writeup
In Chicago, Dean Gloria Elam served as keynote speaker for the ceremony. She urged students to maintain confidence in their passion for healthcare and to remain steadfast in their commitment to caretaking. “Remember the why,” she said. “As your coat is placed on your shoulders, remember that this is a symbol of your commitment. The trust you seek with your patients is symbolized by the white coat you don today. Make that coat mean something.”
Executive Dean Mark Rosenblatt reiterated this message, encouraging students to consider the history represented by their coats. “This is not ‘your coat.’ This coat has been handed down to you by College of Medicine alumni as a tangible expression of our alumni community’s enthusiasm about your first step towards becoming a physician…we and they celebrate your entry into a profession into which you are so very clearly needed. Once again, congratulations on your acceptance into this noble and wonderful profession.”
Peoria Campus
Peoria Writeup
On the Peoria campus, Regional Dean Meenakshy Aiyer said to the incoming UICOMP Class of 2029, “From this moment forward, you are part of a deeply collaborative and supportive community. Our faculty are not just teachers. They are mentors, role models, and lifelong guides. They have committed themselves not only to the science of medicine, but to the art of teaching and the joy of watching students like you grow into your fullest potential. This institution, and in particular the Peoria regional campus, is a place where curiosity is nurtured, questions are welcomed, and learning happens in partnership. You will learn from your professors, from your patients, and, just as importantly, from one another.”
Rockford Campus
Rockford writeup
On the Rockford campus, Regional Dean Alex Stagnaro-Green stressed that today’s ceremony is a transformative one not only in the lives of the incoming class, but also for their families, loved ones, and future patients. “Today formally marks your transition into a member of the medical profession,” he stated. “Special events such as today, Match Day and graduation continue your development. These are landmark days, which you will recall for the rest of your life. But the real transition occurs slowly, almost imperceptibly. As you gain knowledge, interact with other professionals, and most importantly, interact with patients, you will begin to develop your own persona as a physician.”