White Coat Ceremony

Class of 2029 White Coat Ceremony

Class of 2029 White Coat Ceremony
Friday, September 26, 2025
4:30-6:30pm
Health Sciences Education Center Auditorium

Interactive Map
The ceremony will be followed by a reception in the Health Sciences Education Center Lobby.

 

Honored Guest Speaker
Emily Do, Pharm.D., J.D., M.B.A.

Chief Pharmacy Officer, County of San Diego

A woman in a black top

Emily Do is the chief pharmacy officer for the County of San Diego and the current president-elect of the California Society of Health-System Pharmacists (CSHP). She holds more than a decade of experience working in various areas of pharmacy, including community, health-system, administration, public health, quality improvement and regulatory.
 
In her current role at the County of San Diego, Do collaborates with and engages various stakeholders to develop and implement the strategic plan for pharmaceutical services, as well as provides direction for enterprise-wide policies and procedures to enhance services and improve outcomes based on evidence and best practices. She is passionate about implementing AI in health care, improving access to pharmaceutical services and promoting safe medication use through system and process designs.
 
Do holds a doctor of pharmacy from Creighton University, a juris doctor from Concord Law School and a master’s degree in business administration from Missouri State University.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the White Coat Ceremony?

The White Coat Ceremony is a significant event that marks the transition of pharmacy students into their professional journey. It symbolizes their commitment to the values of the pharmacy profession with the donning of the white coat, which represents professionalism and a pledge to uphold the highest standards of practice. During the ceremony students recite the Oath of a Pharmacist, affirming their dedication to the principles and responsibilities of the profession.

What is the dress code?

Students should wear attire that reflects how they want to show up in the world in a professional setting. They will be provided with their white coats during the ceremony. Please consider that a white coat will be placed over attire during the ceremony.

How many guests are allowed to attend?

Due to space limitations, two guests per student may be present in the venue. A livestream link will be made available in advance to allow additional guests to join the event virtually and cheer their students on.

Is parking available near the venue?

Visitor parking is available in the South Parking Structure and the Gilman Parking Structure. Please note that parking may be limited and requires payment except in designated handicapped spaces for those with Disabled Person parking placards or plates. To pay for parking, you can use the ParkMobile app or self-service kiosks in the parking structures. For more information on parking rates and additional details, please visit our campus Visitor Parking webpage.

Guests can also use a variety of public transit options, including the bus, Blue Line Trolley (nearest stops are the VA Medical Center Station and UCSD Central Campus Station), and the COASTER Train.

What can I expect during the ceremony?

The White Coat Ceremony will feature:

Who can I contact if I have accommodation needs, or general questions or concerns?

Christine Cartlidge, ccartlidge@health.ucsd.edu

We strive to provide an inclusive and accessible experience for all guests. If you require accommodations, please contact Christine as far in advance as possible. We will do our best to ensure that your needs are met.

 

Livestream: Class of 2029 White Coat Ceremony

Coming soon!

 

Watch the Class of 2028 White Coat Ceremony