The Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry celebrated a significant milestone in students’ educational journey during its annual White Coat Ceremony on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the Palace of Fine Arts Theatre in San Francisco. 

Nearly 220 members from the DDS Class of 2028, the International Dental Studies Class of 2028 and the Dental Hygiene Class of 2027 received their white coats, symbolizing their transition from simulation-based education to providing hands-on patient care in the school’s clinics.

The White Coat Ceremony has been a cherished Dugoni School tradition since the mid-1990s, when it became the first dental school in the nation to introduce the rite of passage. Dr. Elisa Chávez, interim dean of the Dugoni School, welcomed the attendees, reflecting on the history of the event and the meaning behind the coats, which represent a commitment to professionalism, ethical practice and compassionate care.

Dr. Robert Hanlon, president of the California Dental Association, and Ms. Angela Gomez ’14, president-elect of the California Dental Hygienists’ Association offered remarks on behalf of organized dentistry, encouraging students as they embark on this next phase of their education. 

Dr. Navid Knight ’89, assistant professor and Dugoni Conduct Officer, spoke about the ethical and professional responsibilities students assume as they enter clinical care.

“As you enter patient care, remember something important: every patient who comes to you is placing trust in a profession that has existed long before any of us and will continue long after we are gone,” said Dr. Knight. “You are becoming stewards of that trust. Each interaction you have will either strengthen or weaken the public's confidence in our profession. Every patient encounter becomes an opportunity to demonstrate integrity, compassion and professionalism.”

The white coats were provided by the Dugoni School Alumni Association and Dugoni School Foundation. As each student crossed the stage, they also received a commemorative pin and a note of encouragement from alumni, presented by Dr. Marc H. Lai '13, president of the Alumni Association.

Following the presentation of the coats by faculty members, Dr. Homer Asadi ’88, interim associate dean for clinical services, led the students in the recitation of the professional oath, reinforcing their shared commitment to uphold the highest standards of ethics, integrity and patient care throughout their careers.

“The White Coat Ceremony is a reminder to serve my community with compassion, respect and humility,” said Juan Flores, a member of the Dental Hygiene Class of 2027. “Furthermore, it serves as a point to reflect on the three and a half years of hard work I put in to be at University of the Pacific today.” 

Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry Professional Oath

In light of all I hold sacred, in the presence of my family, friends, and teachers, I pledge to fulfill my obligations as a member of the dental profession.

My responsibility is to promote the health of the community and the persons I serve. The health of my patients will be my first commitment.

My privileges depend upon the trust of my patients. I will not violate that trust. I will respect all that is confided in me. I will do no harm.

I will honor my patients' dignity. I will be their zealous advocate, guided by their will, sensitive to their feelings, needs, and thoughts.

I respect and cherish the lives of all persons. I will not discriminate against any person in my decisions and care.

I recognize the limits of my competence. I will seek the knowledge and inspiration of my colleagues whenever my patients' needs require. I will strive to improve the knowledge and skills I profess to have.

I am responsible for contributing to an improved community. I will strive to prevent disease and to correct adverse social conditions. I will serve as both a teacher and a role model for my patients, my successors, and the public.

I am responsible for upholding my profession's integrity. I will strive to counsel those deficient in character or competence and expose those who engage in fraud or deception. I will not use my medical knowledge in any way contrary to the laws of humanity.

With this oath, I willingly assume these responsibilities.

If I honor this oath, may I be granted fulfillment and joy in my practice of the art of dentistry, respected while I live, and remembered with affection thereafter.