NEWBURGH, NY — Nearly 40 students from the Nurse Practitioner (NP) program at Mount Saint Mary College marked a pivotal milestone in their healthcare journey during the college’s Spring 2025 White Coat Ceremony. The event, held in Newburgh, symbolized the students’ official transition from academics to advanced clinical practice as nurse practitioners.
A Ceremony Rich in Meaning and Tradition
The White Coat Ceremony is a longstanding tradition in medical and nursing education. It marks the moment when students don their white coats, a symbol of their commitment to delivering compassionate, ethical, and patient-centered care. At Mount Saint Mary College, the event is made especially personal: each graduate received their coat from a chosen family member — whether it be a spouse, child, parent, or grandparent — emphasizing the support systems behind their success.
The celebration wasn’t just about receiving a garment, but acknowledging a commitment to a higher standard of practice.
Words of Inspiration and Purpose
Ann Marie Brooks, Interim Dean of the School of Nursing, addressed the graduates with heartfelt encouragement. She emphasized the essential role trust plays in patient care:
“You need to build the bridges of trust with every patient,” she said. “I look forward to hearing about everybody doing great things… So go out, save lives, and stamp out disease. But also, surround yourself with people who are going to lift you higher. Go forth, lift yourselves and others higher.”
Her words served as both a challenge and a call to excellence for the soon-to-be practitioners.
Student Reflections and Promises for the Future
Graduate Eric Ablordey of Middletown was selected to represent his class and speak at the event. His address reflected the emotional and symbolic weight of the white coat:
“White Coat is more than just an event,” Ablordey said. “The white coat we receive today…is a promise to uphold the values of compassion, integrity, innovation, and excellence.”
He spoke of the class’s growth, the support they received, and the dedication they now carry into their careers as nurse practitioners.
Celebrating Academic Excellence
The ceremony also recognized outstanding student achievements. Two graduates received the Sigma Award for excellence in nursing studies:
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Rebecca McGuire of New Windsor
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Franklin Owusu of Elmsford
Additionally, Nicholas Terzulli of Brooklyn was honored with the Sr. Leona DeBoer Graduate Nursing Award, named after one of the Dominican Sisters who helped found the Nursing program at the college. The award honors students who exemplify leadership, academic excellence, and a commitment to the nursing profession.
The Role of Nurse Practitioners
Nurse practitioners are highly trained, advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who play a vital role in healthcare. They can diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, develop treatment plans, and manage patient care in a variety of settings. With increasing demand for accessible, quality care, the role of nurse practitioners has never been more important.
As these graduates step into their new roles, they join a growing force of healthcare professionals committed to improving lives and expanding access to medical services across communities.
A Proud Moment for the College and Community
The 2025 White Coat Ceremony not only celebrated the achievements of the graduating students but also highlighted the strength of Mount Saint Mary College’s nursing program. It showcased the blend of academic rigor, personal support, and ethical commitment that defines the college’s approach to healthcare education.
As these new nurse practitioners move into their professional careers, they carry with them the support of their mentors, families, and community — ready to make a lasting impact in healthcare.
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