Halifax Community College celebrated the next generation of nurses during its Summer 2026 White Coat Ceremony on July 8, recognizing Associate Degree Nursing students as they advance to the second level of their nursing education. 

The ceremony welcomed students from the Traditional ADN, LPN-to-ADN, and Paramedic-to-ADN pathways, all of whom are expected to graduate in May 2027.

The White Coat Ceremony is a nationally recognized tradition that symbolizes students' commitment to professionalism, compassionate patient care, and the ethical responsibilities of the nursing profession. 

The tradition began in 1993 at Columbia University through the vision of Dr. Arnold P. Gold, a pediatric neurologist who believed healthcare professionals should be recognized not only for their knowledge and clinical expertise, but also for their compassion, integrity, and commitment to treating every patient with dignity and respect. In 2014, the Arnold P. Gold Foundation partnered with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing to bring the White Coat Ceremony to nursing education. Today, more than 450 schools of nursing across the country participate in this meaningful tradition, including Halifax Community College.

"The White Coat Ceremony represents far more than the presentation of a uniform," said Sarah R. Harris, program director of nursing at Halifax Community College. "It marks a pivotal moment in our students' journey as they prepare to care for patients with knowledge, compassion, integrity, and professionalism. We are incredibly proud of each student as they continue their path toward becoming outstanding registered nurses."

Kim Stallings, Administrator and CEO of Bryan Health and Rehab, served as the keynote speaker, encouraging students to embrace the challenges and rewards of the nursing profession.

Traditional ADN student Matt Henley introduced the keynote speaker, while Brittney Baker, an LPN-to-ADN student, and Chad Edmundson, a Paramedic-to-ADN student, shared personal reflections about the significance of receiving their white coats and what the milestone meant to them as future nurses.

During the ceremony, students also recited the HCC White Coat Ceremony Pledge, affirming their commitment to empathy, integrity, excellence, lifelong learning, and compassionate patient care.

Three students were recognized with Clinical Excellence Awards for demonstrating exceptional clinical performance and dedication to patient care:

Cassandra Tapit – Traditional ADN Program; Molly Mumford – LPN-to-ADN Program; and Rachel Hoggard – Paramedic-to-ADN Program

A total of 36 nursing students participated in this year's White Coat Ceremony, representing the Traditional ADN, LPN-to-ADN, and Paramedic-to-ADN programs.

“As students donned their white coats, they joined thousands of nursing students across the nation in embracing the values the ceremony represents: integrity, respect, responsibility, and a promise to continue keeping healthcare human,” HCC said. “The white coat serves as a lasting symbol of their commitment to excellence and compassionate care as they continue their education and prepare to serve patients and communities throughout the region.”