On September 27, the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences held its annual White Coat Ceremony, also known as “Donning the Healer’s Habit,†at the Palais des Congrès in downtown Montreal. This cherished tradition marks the transition of second-year medical students to clinical training. Over 200 students and 650 guests attended, including faculty leadership and Osler Fellows, who assisted the students in donning their white coats on stage.
Now in its 23rd edition, the ceremony began with a musical prelude performed by I Medici di Â鶹AV, setting a celebratory tone for the occasion. This was followed by introductory remarks by Mélanie Mondou, MDCM, Associate Dean, Undergraduate Medical Education, and Marion Koch, MD, Program Director Undergraduate Medical Education (Campus Outaouais). Lesley Fellows, MDCM, Vice-President (Health Affairs) and Dean of the Faculty, then delivered a speech highlighting the values and responsibilities that accompany the medical profession. “Becoming a physician is about earning and re-earning the trust society places in you – the trust each patient places in you†she told the future doctors.Â
Danyèle Lacombe, MDCM, Vice-Dean and Director of Campus Outaouais, reminded the Class of 2027 of the significance of the day. « Aujourd’hui est un moment très spécial pour vous tous » dit-elle, « nous marquons le début d’un nouveau chapitre dans vos vies : le passage du savoir théorique au savoir clinique ».
“Today is a very special day†she said. “We mark the beginning of a new chapter in your lives: the transition from theoretical knowledge to clinical knowledge.â€
Benefactor Frederic Braun, MDCM Class of 1972, told the medical students in his inspiring speech that “The meaning of life is to find your gift, and the purpose of life is to give it away.â€
This year’s keynote speaker was Edvin Schei, MD, Professor of Family Medicine and Medical Education at the University of Bergen in Norway. Speaking in English and French, he shared his insights on the role of medicine with the students. “Two words encapsulate how you, as a doctor, will have to engage with patients. The first is ‘power.’ Power is what you possess when others rely on your thoughts, words and decisions. However, the ability to heal is a gift that the patient grants you. This leads to the second word: ‘trust.’ Trust is a profound resource you access when you put on the white coat and say, ‘I am a doctor: how can I help you?’â€Â
The event concluded with the donning of white coats, symbolizing the medical students’ dedication to their profession and clinical practice. This was followed by the recitation of the Class pledge and a cocktail reception, which was enjoyed by all.
Congratulations to the MDCM Class of 2027!
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