Numbering 284, the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (MSUCOM) Class of 2026 were celebrated Friday during the annual Convocation and White Coat Ceremony, an important milestone in their journey to become physicians.
The ceremony celebrates the beginning of a medical student’s career when they don the short white coat on the path to achieve the long white coat that is received upon graduation as a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.). Convocation and the White Coat ceremony symbolize the students’ commitment to serve others with professionalism, while emphasizing the importance of the science of medicine and the art of caring for all.
MSUCOM Dean Andrea Amalfitano, D.O., Ph.D., welcomed the Class of 2026 and guests to the event at the Breslin Student Events Center. The Convocation and White Coat Ceremony featured keynote speaker Deanna Ingrassia Miano, D.O. ('21), who shared stories from her experience as a medical student, as well as advice and insight with the class. Other speakers included Elizabeth Cowdin, OMS-II and Student Government Association president, and Andrew D. Adair, D.O. and president of the Michigan Osteopathic Association, who congratulated the students for reaching this moment and joining the osteopathic medical family, the fastest growing segment of health care professionals in Michigan and the United States.
View photos here.