A Milestone in Nursing: HFU Newtown Campus Celebrates White Coat Ceremony for MSN-DNP FNP Students
On Thursday, September 12, 2024, the HFU Newtown Campus was abuzz with excitement and pride as it hosted the White Coat Ceremony for the MSN-DNP Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track students. This significant event marked a pivotal moment in the academic and professional journeys of four dedicated students: Melissa Gomez, Naoana Victor, Jennifer Rodriguez, and Marlena Pierce.
The ceremony was a joyous occasion attended by students, their families, friends, faculty, and nursing administration. It celebrated the students’ completion of their FNP clinical hours and didactic courses within the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. The event underscored the hard work and commitment required to reach this milestone.
The ceremony began with a warm welcome from Dr. Jinsy Mathew, Vice Dean, who set the tone for the evening with her inspiring words. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Denise Vanacore, Vice Dean, who shared her insights and experiences, motivating the students to continue their pursuit of excellence in nursing.
Dr. Elaine Maruca, DNP Program Director, provided a historical perspective on the White Coat Ceremony, highlighting its significance in the nursing profession. The highlight of the evening was the cloaking of the white coats and the pinning ceremony, performed by Dr. Valerie Batezel and Dr. Elaine Maruca. This symbolic act represented the students’ transition from the academic phase of their education to their roles as healthcare professionals.
The DNP program at HFU is designed for nurses who aspire to work in both clinical and non-clinical environments, providing direct patient care or taking on leadership roles in education or healthcare policy. The program equips graduates with the skills to apply theory and research, practice evidence-based care, measure aggregate outcomes, and transform healthcare systems to ensure quality and safety.
The White Coat Ceremony was a testament to the dedication and perseverance of the MSN-DNP FNP students and a celebration of their achievements. As they don their white coats, they are ready to embark on the next chapter of their professional lives, equipped with the knowledge and skills to make a significant impact in the field of nursing.
