Watch the full recording of the Long White Coat Ceremony
The Campbell University College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences celebrated an important milestone on Friday as members of the PA Class of 2026 received their long white coats during the annual PA Long White Coat Ceremony.
For PA students, the Long White Coat Ceremony represents more than a change in attire. It signifies the transition from didactic learning and clinical experiences to professional practice and serves as a reminder of the compassion, integrity and commitment to service that define the profession. The ceremony included the presentation of long white coats, the Blessing of the Hands and the PA Professional Oath, reaffirming each student’s dedication to providing ethical, patient-centered care.
“Today is a celebration of your hard work, perseverance and dedication to becoming physician assistants,” said Dr. Laura Gerstner, chair and director of the Campbell University PA Program. “As you begin your career, remember that every patient interaction is an opportunity to learn, grow and make a difference in someone’s life. We are so proud of each of you. You’ll always be part of the Campbell PA family. Please keep in touch, come back to visit and know you’ll always have a home here.”
Learning from a Dedicated Mentor
Delivering this year’s White Coat Address was Erin Kunz, MHS, PA-C, senior PA in the Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Duke University Medical Center. A longtime supporter of Campbell’s PA Program, Kunz has served as a guest lecturer since the program welcomed its inaugural class in 2011, sharing her expertise in oncology, behavioral medicine and compassionate patient care.
Celebrating Student Achievement
The ceremony honored members of the PA Class of 2026 for their academic excellence, leadership, professionalism and service.
The Jerry M. Wallace Servant Leadership and Character Fellows were Joshua Allan House and Megan Elizabeth Matthews, recognizing their commitment to servant leadership and advocacy in healthcare.
The Pi Alpha Honor Society, the national honor society for PA students recognizing academic achievement, leadership, research and service, welcomed eight new members:
- Peyton George Baker
- Sophia Brown
- MaryBeth Dobbins
- Joshua House
- Hannah Redman
- McKenzie Steele
- Hailey Yates
- Irene Zellonis Otto
The Outstanding Service Award was presented to Keller Whitlock and Madison Perry for their dedication to serving their classmates, the program, the PA profession and the community.
The Excellence in Professionalism Award recognized Catherine Headley and Joshua House for exemplifying professionalism, leadership and integrity throughout the program.
The Camel Spirit Award was presented to Joseph McNulty, honoring the student who best exemplifies positivity, purpose and passion while embodying the spirit of the Campbell community.
The Jerry M. Wallace Legacy Award was presented to MaryBeth Dobbins in recognition of her compassion, humility, servant leadership and commitment to caring for others.
The Director’s Award, recognizing exceptional dedication, perseverance and resilience throughout the program, was presented to Megan Matthews.
The program also recognized Leah Black, PA-C, of Rainbow Pediatrics, and Sandeep Grewal, MD, of Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center, with the Excellence in Precepting Award for their outstanding commitment to educating Campbell PA students during clinical rotations. Abhik Biswas, MD, of Cape Fear Valley Inpatient Pediatrics, was posthumously honored with the Honorary PA Award for his lasting impact on the Campbell PA Program and the PA profession.
Watch the full recording of the Long White Coat Ceremony
The Next Chapter
As part of this year’s ceremony, students also participated in the Note in the Coat program, a meaningful tradition that allows members of the Campbell PA community to sponsor a student’s white coat and share a personal note of encouragement, advice, or prayer. As graduates exited the stage following the ceremony, each received their note; a heartfelt reminder that they are supported by a community cheering them on as they begin the next chapter of their journey.
Since welcoming its inaugural class in 2011, the Campbell University PA Program has prepared highly skilled, compassionate healthcare professionals who are making a difference in communities throughout North Carolina and across the nation. The annual Long White Coat Ceremony celebrates the transition from student to professional. As they don their long white coats and begin serving patients, the PA Class of 2026 carries forward Campbell University’s mission of faith, learning and service while joining a growing network of Campbell PA alumni who will always have a place to call home.
