Match Day 2026: Cheers, tears and next steps for Rowan-Virtua SOM’s newest physicians

With anticipation building and envelopes in hand, members of the Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine’s Class of 2026 gathered at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Cherry Hill on Friday, March 20, to take part in one of the most defining moments of their medical education: Match Day.

Surrounded by family, friends and faculty, students joined peers across the country in learning where they will complete their residency training — the next step in their journey to becoming physicians.

The ceremony opened with welcome remarks from Anne C. Jones, D.O. ’08, assistant dean for student affairs, who served as master of ceremonies, followed by remarks from Dean Dr. Richard T. Jermyn and Dr. Rebecca Moore, vice president of the Rowan-Virtua SOM Alumni Association.

As the clock approached noon, the energy in the room intensified. At exactly 12 p.m., under the direction of Dr. Millicent Channell, vice dean for academic affairs and student services, the class joined in a unified countdown before opening their Match letters together.

In an instant, the ballroom erupted — cheers, applause and emotional embraces filled the space as students discovered where their careers would take them next.

Match Day Excellence

This year, over 98% of the Class of 2026 matched with residency programs. The rate is expected to increase in the coming days, continuing Rowan-Virtua SOM’s trend of strong match outcomes that exceed national averages for osteopathic medical schools.

Dean Jermyn praised the class for their achievements and the impact they are poised to make in medicine.

“We are so proud of you and know you will do amazing things wherever you go,” Jermyn said. “As a class, take a collective deep breath, soak in the joy of this moment and enjoy every minute of today as you celebrate all that you have accomplished.”

Impacting Physician Shortage

Members of the Class of 2026 secured residency positions across a broad range of specialties. Of those, more than 35% will pursue primary care fields, highlighting the school’s mission to address critical health care needs. Additionally, nearly 45% of graduates will remain in New Jersey for their residency training, helping to strengthen the state’s physician workforce.

Class of 2026 President Tanvi Shah reflected on the journey that brought the class to this moment and the shared experiences that shaped them along the way.

“I hope that today proves you are good enough, and you deserve every single moment of celebration surrounding this monumental achievement,” Shah said. “This is a dream many years in the making and the start of something new.”

For the Class of 2026, Match Day marks a milestone years in the making — one that reflects not only academic achievement, but resilience, growth and purpose. As they step into residency programs across New Jersey and the nation, they carry forward a tradition of excellence and a commitment to care for the communities they will soon serve.