The ceremony symbolizes professionalism and compassion. The students are "cloaked" with their first white coats, symbolizing the mantle of responsibility, and will take a professional oath, publicly acknowledging their willingness to assume the obligations of their chosen profession.

This year's speaker will be Matt Dane Baker, PA-C, DHSc, executive dean of the College of Science, Health and the Liberal Arts, Philadelphia University.

Baker has been involved in the education of physician assistants for more than two decades. He was the program director of Philadelphia University's physician assistant program for 10 years and has worked clinically as a physician assistant for 23 years in geriatrics, cardiac rehabilitation, family medicine, otorhinolaryngology/head and neck surgery, psychiatry and occupational medicine. He has also worked extensively in health care administration, has participated in research and has more than 20 years' military service, currently serving part-time as a lieutenant colonel in the Air National Guard.

For more information on the White Coat Ceremony, contact the Student Development Office at 817-735-2775.

If you are with the media and need additional information or would like to arrange an interview, please contact the Office of Marketing and Communications at 817-735-2446.