WEST DES MOINES, IOWA (September 8, 2026) — On Friday, September 4, 456 students from five programs at Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences received their first white coats during the university's White Coat Ceremony — an event that marks the beginning of students' professional journeys and their commitment to becoming compassionate and competent health-care providers.
"Students, when you don the white coat, you assume not only the responsibilities, but also the obligation that attend to those who choose to provide care to other human beings," said Angela L Walker Franklin PhD, President and CEO of DMU.
"By accepting these obligations, you become part of the legacy of thousands of Des Moines University alumni whose contributions to medical care have alleviated suffering, saved the lives of countless individuals, and maintained the integrity and high ethical standards of health-care professions represented here."
Participating in DMU's White Coat Ceremony, held at the Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center Grand Ballroom in Des Moines, were:
- 232 students in the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine program (Class of 2030)
- 66 students in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program (Class of 2028)
- 62 students in the Doctor of Podiatric Medicine program (Class of 2030)
- 61 students in the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program (Class of 2028)
- 35 students in the Doctor of Occupational Therapy program (Class of 2029)
Each dean shared remarks on the significance of the white coat and the responsibility it represents, including Wallace Boeve EdD PA-C DFAAPA, dean of the College of Health Sciences; Kevin Smith DPM PhD FACFAS, dean of the College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery; and David Connett DO FACOFP (dist), dean of the College of Osteopathic Medicine.
The ceremony concluded with the three deans leading students in reciting the White Coat Ceremony Student Oath. During the oath, students pledged that their efforts "will be focused on the ultimate goal of serving future patients."
The students' white coats were provided through an endowed fund established by DMU graduates Maurice Schwartz and Elliott Schwartz, as well as through donations from other alumni and friends of the university.
