Feik School of Pharmacy White Coat Ceremony Recognizes the Class of 2028

On Friday, Aug. 9, the UIW Feik School of Pharmacy (FSOP) hosted its annual White Coat Ceremony in the McCombs Center Rosenberg Sky Room. The event was held in celebration of first year (P1) UIW pharmacy students who received their white coats and pledged themselves to serving others by reciting the Oath of a Pharmacist.  

FSOP welcomed over 650 in-person guests and 83 virtual attendees consisting of students, faculty, families, friends and supporters who all gathered to support the future class of 2028 as they embark on their journeys to become professionals in pharmacy. 

The school's founding dean, Dr. Arcelia Johnson-Fannin, and Interim Provost Dr. Dimitri Tamalis addressed the class on behalf of President Evans. 

Additionally, alumnus and former FSOP faculty member, Dr. Johnathan Cuevas ‘11, delivered the ceremony’s keynote address. Cuevas encouraged students to study diligently, connect with alumni and celebrate victories whether big or small.  

“It stands out for students to hear and see someone who was a product of the program they are starting,” said Dr. Rheaclare Fraser-Spears, FSOP white coat ceremony committee chair. “Dr. Cuevas was a stellar example of an alumnus who went through the same steps, which began with a white coat ceremony. He endured hard courses and exams, graduated and became a pharmacist with a successful career both as a faculty member at FSOP and in San Antonio. He loves the FSOP and the pharmacy profession and perfectly encouraged our next generation of healthcare specialists.” 

Each of the 76 P1 students who were honored at the ceremony received their white coats and recited their pledge of professionalism, officially taking their first step towards the pharmacy profession. Fraser-Spears recalls how many families rushed to their newly coated students to congratulate them on their momentous achievement. 

“Family support is a critical part of student success, and you can see how excited and proud families are in that moment,” noted Fraser-Spears. 

“It was such an honor to be a part of the Class of 2028 White Coat Ceremony,” expressed Pherica Fontenette, a student who participated in the event. “It represented a monumental milestone of the beginning of a new chapter to many. The building was filled with smiles and hearts of gratitude, a memory that will not be forgotten. The faculty organized an amazing ceremony. It was the best way to kick off the first week of pharmacy school. Choosing this path is by far one of the most rewarding decisions I have made, and I am happy to call Feik School of Pharmacy my new ‘Pharmily’ for the next four years.” 

Well wishes to FSOP’s latest generation of aspiring pharmacists.