The University of Iowa College of Pharmacy is pleased to welcome two new student classes for the 2023-2024 school year. Twelve new graduate students entered the College on Aug. 14, followed by 80 first-year Doctor of Pharmacy students during an Aug. 19 White Coat Ceremony.
From this point forward, we’re a team. You’re part of a family. We work together to elevate patient care. We help each other. -- Dean Donald Letendre
Of those seeking a Doctor of Philosophy, six are in the Pharmaceutics program, five with Drug Discovery and Experimental Therapeutics, and one in Health Services Research. They represent seven nationalities. During orientation week, students met with faculty and students in their program, received a human resources overview, and toured the building and other areas of campus. They also met with David Roman, professor and associate dean for Research and Graduate Education.
Flocks of family, friends, faculty, and staff convened at Iowa City’s Hancher Auditorium to watch Doctor of Pharmacy students receive their white coats during the White Coat Ceremony.
“You’re in,” said Dean Donald Letendre. “From this point forward, we’re a team. You’re part of a family. We work together to elevate patient care. We help each other.”
The cohort was welcomed to the profession by Clinical Associate Professor Jim Hoehns, president-elect of the Iowa Pharmacy Association. Hoehns said he hoped students “have a lot of rewarding experiences in helping patients over the years.”
Associate Dean Mary Ray welcomed the audience, and Associate Dean Susan Vos presented the student pharmacists, stating “The white coat signifies caring, trustworthiness, and compassion.” Coating each student was performed by Clinical Associate Professors Jeanine Abrons and Steve Veach. Sidney Vancil, a fourth-year student and Student Leadership Council’s immediate past president, led the Oath of the Pharmacist recitation. Walgreens Co. and other generous alumni supported the ceremony.
In closing remarks, Letendre told students he was eager to witness their professional journey.
“I’ll be rooting for you to be the best version of a professional you can possibly be,” he said. “We look forward to the contributions you’re going to make to humankind in the years ahead.”
Doctor of Pharmacy Class of 2027
- 77.5% identify as female, 22.5% as male
- 26% indicate they are First Generation
- 71% are from Iowa
- Represent seven different states
- 23% identify as African American, American Indian, Native Hawaiian, or other Pacific Islander, Asian, Latinx/a/o, or two or more ethnicities
- Average age: 22
- Age range: 19-34
