50th entering class begins journey at Rowan-Virtua SOM White Coat Ceremony

A new chapter began for the 50th class of Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine (SOM) as 292 members of the Class of 2030 received their white coats and officially began their journey as medical students. The largest incoming medical school class in New Jersey gathered with faculty, family and friends August 7 at Rowan University’s Glassboro campus to celebrate this milestone and take their first steps toward becoming osteopathic physicians. 

Since 1996, Rowan-Virtua SOM has celebrated the White Coat Ceremony as the symbolic start of each student's medical school journey. The ceremony recognizes students' commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care and welcomes them into the Rowan-Virtua SOM community. 

Dean Richard Jermyn reflected on the significance of the occasion as the school welcomed its 50th entering class. 

"Today is an especially meaningful day as we celebrate the Class of 2030—our 50th entering class," he said. "Fifty classes. Fifty years. Nearly five decades ago, the first class walked through our doors with the same hopes, dreams, and determination that each of you brings today. They became exceptional physicians, leaders, and innovators. Today, many have returned as your faculty, proving that the legacy they began continues through you." 

Before students received their white coats, Jermyn highlighted the commemorative 50th anniversary pin attached to each coat, honoring the inaugural class and the school's enduring legacy. 

"May you wear it with pride as a reminder of those who came before you, the community that supports you, and the impact you will make in the years ahead," he said. 

Jermyn also reflected on the evolving meaning of the white coat throughout his career, emphasizing its enduring symbolism of trust, compassion and service. He challenged students to carry those values throughout their medical careers, reminding them of their responsibility to care for others with empathy and purpose—particularly as they confront today’s opioid epidemic.  

Each student's white coat included naloxone (Narcan) nasal spray, a lifesaving medication used to reverse opioid overdoses. 

"May the Narcan in your white coat serve as a reminder to care for every patient with compassion, free from stigma and bias," Jermyn said. "See the person before the diagnosis and treat each patient with the same dignity and care you would give your own family." 

He concluded by encouraging students to advocate for their patients throughout their careers. 

"Remember, when the health of your patients is at risk, be an advocate," he said. "Go into your communities with courage and never be afraid to challenge the status quo when it means improving the health and well-being of others." 

Rowan University Chancellor Tony Lowman welcomed the incoming class, noting they will be the first to study in Rowan's new and expanded facilities on the university's West Campus and Sewell campus. He also highlighted Rowan's continued partnership with Virtua Health and the continued growth of health professions education. 

The Class of 2030 represents a broad range of backgrounds and experiences. Nearly half of the class calls New Jersey home, including 11% from South Jersey. Students come from 22 states and four countries, with the school welcoming its largest international cohort to date—42 students. 

Student leaders also offered words of encouragement as the newest future physicians embarked on their medical school journeys. 

Student Government Association First Vice President and third-year medical student Zahra Wallizadeh reminded the class to embrace both the challenges and opportunities ahead. 

"Take full advantage of every opportunity to learn," she said. "This is the time when it's okay to make mistakes and be wrong because that's how you grow. In the end, you get out of this experience what you put into it." 

Student Government Association President and third-year medical student Nabeeha Soherwardy encouraged students to rely on one another and the loved ones who helped them reach this milestone. 

"The people beside you will grow to become some of your closest friends and future colleagues," she said. "Lean on one another with the understanding that medicine is never meant to be practiced alone." 

Following the presentation of their white coats, members of the Class of 2030 recited the Pledge of Commitment, affirming the values of compassion, professionalism and lifelong learning that will guide them throughout their medical careers. 

A long-standing tradition brought the ceremony to a memorable close as students discovered White Coat Notes tucked into their pockets—messages of encouragement from faculty, staff, alumni, family and friends. Supported by donations for student scholarships, the tradition welcomed the Class of 2030 into the Rowan-Virtua SOM family as they begin their journey to becoming osteopathic physicians.