Written by: Dionne Lucas, Director of Donor Communications
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Aug. 11, 2026) — The next generation of physicians, dentists and researchers will take the first step in their professional journeys as Meharry Medical College welcomes its newest students during its annual White Coat Ceremonies on Friday, Aug. 14, beginning at 9 a.m. CDT in the Cal Turner Family Center on the college’s campus.
Receiving their first white coats marks the beginning of students’ professional education and symbolizes their commitment to compassionate, ethical and patient-centered care. The White Coat Ceremony is a nationally recognized tradition that marks students’ entry into health professions and serves as a public commitment to the values of integrity, professionalism, compassion and service.
“For 150 years, Meharry has prepared leaders who answer a calling greater than themselves,” said James E.K. Hildreth Sr., M.D., Ph.D., president and chief executive officer of Meharry Medical College. “Every White Coat Ceremony reminds us that our mission is renewed with each new class. As one generation passes the torch to the next, our commitment to service, excellence and improving the health of our communities endures.”
This year’s ceremonies hold special significance as Meharry celebrates its 150th anniversary. Since 1876, Meharry has prepared generations of physicians, dentists, researchers and other health professionals dedicated to improving the health and well-being of underserved communities.
Among those receiving a white coat is incoming medical student Simone Stokes, whose mother graduated from Meharry Medical College’s School of Dentistry in 1992.
“I feel like I’m stepping into a long legacy of exceptional people,” Stokes said. “I’m really excited to see what’s next.”
“Receiving a white coat is both an honor and a responsibility,” said Cherae M. Farmer, D.D.S., M.S.P.H., and dean of the School of Dentistry. “It symbolizes the commitment they are making to serve with excellence, compassion and integrity.”
- 9 a.m. – School of Graduate Studies
- 11 a.m. – School of Medicine
- 1:30 p.m. – School of Dentistry
The White Coat Ceremonies are open to invited guests. To watch the livestream, visit @MeharryTube on YouTube.
For more information, please contact Dionne Lucas at dionne.lucas@mmc.edu or Jolene Butts Freeman at Jolene.freeman@mmc.edu.
ABOUT MEHARRY MEDICAL COLLEGE:
Meharry Medical College is a historically Black academic health sciences center founded in 1876 that trains qualified physicians, scientists and dentists from every demographic to serve underserved communities. Meharry educates its students in the school’s 150-year heritage of healing the whole person and advancing public health. True to its heritage, it is a United Methodist Church-related institution. Diverse Issues in Higher Education annually ranks Meharry as a leading national educator of African Americans who earn M.D., D.D.S. and Ph.D. degrees in the biomedical sciences. Learn more at www.meharry.edu.
