University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies students marked an important milestone in their journey toward becoming registered nurses at the School’s Fall 2026 White Coat Ceremony on August 28.
Dean Hudson Santos welcomed students, faculty, family members, and friends to the ceremony, describing the occasion as both a celebration of achievement and a moment of transformation as students prepare to take their nursing education into clinical settings.
“For generations, the White Coat Ceremony has marked the transition from learning about nursing to living nursing,” Santos told the students. “It symbolizes your entry into the clinical environment, where knowledge meets humanity, science meets compassion, and skill meets service.”
Santos spoke about the experiences awaiting students as they begin caring for individuals and families during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. He reminded them that nursing depends not only on knowledge and skill, but also on compassion, integrity and a commitment to others.
Juan Gonzalez, associate dean for undergraduate nursing programs, spoke about the learning and growth ahead as students move beyond lectures, simulations and skills labs and into clinical settings. He encouraged the future nurses to ask questions, seek feedback, remain curious and embrace opportunities to learn from patients, peers, faculty and clinical instructors.
“Trust the process, trust your preparation, and trust yourselves,” Gonzalez told them. “You have earned your place here, and we are excited to support you as you continue your journey toward joining the nursing profession.”
Gonzalez then invited nurses and nursing students in attendance to recite the School’s Ibis Nursing Pledge, affirming their commitment to compassion, fairness and excellence; respect for the dignity, culture and voice of every patient; ethical practice and lifelong learning; health equity; and service to the community.
Following the pledge, students were called to the stage to receive their white coats from nursing faculty, symbolizing their transition into clinical education and the passing of knowledge and wisdom from one generation of nurses to the next.
Santos closed the ceremony by reminding students that the significance of their white coats ultimately will be determined by how they practice nursing.
“The true meaning of this coat is not found in the fabric,” he said. “Its meaning will be defined by the kindness you show a frightened patient. By the dignity you extend to every person you encounter. By the courage you demonstrate when faced with uncertainty. And by your commitment to improving the lives of others.”
He also encouraged students to support one another through the challenges ahead, reminding them that no one succeeds in nursing alone and welcoming them to the next chapter of their nursing journey and to the Canes Nurse family.
2026 FALL WHITE COAT CEREMONY
