New students at the University of North Texas Health Science Center will put on their white coats for the first time at the annual White Coat Ceremony at 2 p.m. on Sept. 12, at the Will Rogers Auditorium, 3401 West Lancaster.

The event is a "rite of passage" for Health Science Center students that encourages a psychological contract for professionalism and empathy. The students will put on their white coats for the first time, signaling their entrance into their chosen career field, and will take a professional oath, publicly acknowledging their new responsibilities and willingness to assume the obligation of their new profession. 

The incoming students will be welcomed by President Scott Ransom and will be addressed by this year's keynote speaker, Dr. Kathleen Forbes, executive vice president of clinical affairs and business development at the Health Science Center, and CEO of UNT Health.

This year's ceremony also will include the presentation of the Founders' Medal and the Mary E. Luibel Distinguished Service Award. 

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.