More than 100 students officially marked the start of their pharmacy career.

Spirits were high as more than 100 Temple University School of Pharmacy students marked their first significant professional milestone by participating in the annual White Coat Ceremony.

The celebratory event held on Sept. 18 at the Temple Performing Arts Center highlighted the responsibility of pharmacists within healthcare.  

S. Suresh Madhavan, dean of Temple Pharmacy, addressed the evolving role of pharmacists and the white coat’s significance in his opening remarks.

“The white coat you will wear today is far more than a garment,” he told the Class of 2030. “It is a symbol of trust, integrity and service. Known as the cloak of compassion, it represents your pledge to put patients at the center of everything you do.”

He told the students that when they wear this coat, they carry the confidence of the public and expectations of the profession.

“It will remind you that you are called not simply to dispense medicines, but to listen, to guide, to heal and to serve with empathy and professionalism,” Madhavan continued.

The ceremony comes as Temple Pharmacy marks its 125th anniversary this year.

“Since our founding in 1901, generations of Temple pharmacists have cared for patients, strengthened communities, advanced science, built businesses, led organizations and helped shape the profession,” Madhavan said. “During this milestone year, you become the newest chapter in that remarkable history.”