A “White” Start with a Traditional Cloaking Ceremony
On Sept. 10, 2025, Rutgers School of Dental Medicine (RSDM) welcomed the Class of 2029 and the Internationally Educated Dentists joining the Class of 2027 with a time-honored tradition—the White Coat Ceremony. Since its inception in 2001 with the Class of 2005, RSDM has been among the first dental schools in the nation to embrace this symbolic rite of passage.
“More than 24 years later, we continue this tradition with the same spirit and purpose for which it was created,” said Janine Fredericks-Younger, associate dean of student affairs and associate dean of graduate programs, in her warm welcome. “This ceremony marks an important milestone. It signifies the beginning of a dental education and highlights the ethical and professional responsibilities that come with being a future healthcare provider.”
Dean Cecile A. Feldman reflected on her personal experiences of wearing her white coat for the first time, emphasizing it is more than a garment but a symbol of trust. “This is a day you step forward not only as students of dentistry, but as future doctors who will touch lives in ways both seen and unseen,” she said. “From this day forward, remember that dentistry is both science and service, both knowledge and kindness.”
Hannah Ciullo of Class of 2025, who received the Stanley S. Bergen Medal of Excellence—the highest honor awarded to a graduating student—delivered the keynote speech. Ciullo shared her journey of learning a new language during dental school and the challenges she and her classmates overcame together. “One thing I miss most about dental school is the camaraderie, the bond that forms when you go through this journey together,” she said. “Starting today, you are all a team.” She also spoke of the RSDM faculty’s lasting impact on her. “There has not been a day in my residency, where I did not wish one of my RSDM professors was standing next to me, guiding me,” she said. “I often find myself asking, ‘What would Dr. So-and-So would do in this situation?’ Rutgers faculty are a rare group.”
Ciullo also gave students advice that stuck with her over the years: “Do right by your patients, and the success will come to you. … Every day, bring your best self, even if it takes a little extra effort. That attitude becomes a habit, that habit becomes part of your identity, and eventually you become a source of life for your classmates and someday for your future patients.”
Last year, Ciullo received the school’s Professionalism Award on the same stage. This year, Class of 2027 President Karen Eren and Vice President Jason Engler received the award from Chair of Periodontics Andrew Sullivan ’74 for displaying exemplary professional conduct. The ceremony concluded with the recital of the dental oath, led by the President of the New Jersey Dental Association Amit Vora.
A recording of the event can be found here.
