On July 19th, students in the Tom and Julie Wood College of Osteopathic Medicine (MU-WCOM) Class of 2028 reached a defining milestone in their medical education as they received their white coats during Marian University's annual White Coat Ceremony at the Arena and Convocation Center.
The ceremony marks the transition from classroom-based instruction to clinical training, as students move into hospitals, physician offices, and other healthcare settings where they will begin caring for patients under the guidance of experienced physicians.
The presentation of the white coat symbolizes more than a new phase of medical education. It represents the trust, professionalism, compassion, and ethical responsibility expected of every physician as students begin applying their knowledge in real-world clinical settings.
Marian University President Daniel J. Elsener joined MU-WCOM Dean Amanda Wright, D.O., in recognizing the achievement, along with student speaker Sadie Mauger. David Blank, D.O., representing the Indiana Osteopathic Association, also participated in the ceremony. The Indiana Osteopathic Association sponsored this year's white coats, continuing its partnership in supporting the next generation of osteopathic physicians.
2026 Meaningful Medicine Mentoring (MMM) Awards
- - Distinguished Mentor: Dr. Troy Payner
- - Distinguished Mentor: Dr. Jordan Phelps
- - Distinguished Mentor: Dr. Robert Daze
- - Mentor of the Year: Dr. Fred Frick
Faculty Excellence in Teaching Awards
- Biomedical Faculty: Dr. Megan Balle
- Clinical Faculty: Dr. Jeremy Jones
- Clinical Faculty: Dr. Jesse Clark
- Class of 2028: Dr. Ella Moritz
Following the ceremony, students will begin month-long clinical clerkship rotations at hospitals, clinics, and physician practices throughout the region. The rotations will continue throughout the remainder of their medical education, providing hands-on experience across a variety of specialties as they prepare for residency and careers in patient care.
In addition to the Indiana Osteopathic Association sponsorship, we offer the opportunity for alumni and other physician friends of the program to sponsor a white coat.