LORETTO — On May 1, the Department of Physician Assistant Science at Saint Francis University held its annual White Coat Ceremony marking the end of the first year of training and transition into clinical education.

Shaylee Caulkins of Port Allegany, was one of 48 students recognized during the ceremony.

Other participants included department faculty, Dr. Jill Cavalet, Ms. Michelle Beck, Ms. Brandi Penatzer, Dr. Meghan Bolinger, Dr. Don Walkovich, dean, School of Health Sciences and Education and University President Father Malachi Van Tassel. The keynote speaker was alumna Melissa Hall.

The students recited and signed a modern version of the Hippocratic Oath, which reminded them of the vow to provide ethical, confidential, and compassionate care to the patient and not their illness, keeping the patient’s best interest in mind. Students were presented with and donned their white lab coats to affirm their role as future health care providers. The class will graduate with a Master of Physician Assistant Science degree in May 2023, following one year of full-time clinical rotations.