During the Department of Physician Assistant Studies Long White Coat Ceremony in 1CW last Friday, Reamer Bushardt spoke to the Class of 2024 not just as the Institute’s provost and vice president for academic affairs, but as a physician assistant who had once taken part in the traditional ceremony.

“This coat that you're going to put on is a visible representation, and it should remind us of our commitment the truth and openness and compassion as we care for people and their families and the communities where we live and serve,” Bushardt told the 40 degree candidates, their friends, family, and faculty members. 

That sentiment was echoed by student speaker, Jenna Doherty, who recollected some of their collective accomplishments, thanked those who supported them during their time in the program, joked about quiz appeals and classmates who helped everyone with technical issues before saying, “As we embark on this next journey of practicing medicine as physician assistants, I hope we continue to channel the fire within us to make a difference in the lives of those who we are surrounded by.”

Aubrey Fiacco Lipshutz, a 2021 graduate of the PA program, delivered the keynote address, speaking about her time as a student as well as a practicing PA and preceptor for current students. She encouraged the candidates to consider the needs of their patients, other health professionals who they would be working with, and how they can help the next generation of PA students. 

“I challenge you to meet every patient where they are, provide the utmost level of care, provide them with all the empathy and respect that they deserve, and help educate them on their care and to remember what a privilege we have in getting to be a member of their care team,” said Fiacco Lipshutz, now a PA with Atrius Health. “Get involved. Join your team. Give to the next generation of PAs. Provide for all of your patients, and never stop learning. Give your time, your talents, your energy, and your passions that we know you all have, and be proud you're a PA.”

Before the candidates donned their white coats for the first time, six students were inducted into Pi Alpha, the national physician assistant honor society, and three students earned awards. The Student Excellence in Leadership Award went to Michael Mendes, as the student who was identified by both peers and faculty as an outstanding leader during the program. The Student Excellence in Service Award was given to Alissa Joyce Brual, honoring outstanding commitment to service during the program. Finally, the Program Director’s Award was given to Matthew Reinemann, recognizing contributions to the program, the class, and the IHP community.

Mimoza Shehu won the Outstanding Clinical Faculty Award, which honors a distinguished faculty member who demonstrates excellence in classroom teaching and in supporting PA students’ growth and development in the didactic setting. 

Trevin Lau from the Mass General Department of Obstetrics won the Outstanding Clinical Faculty Award, which honors a distinguished clinical preceptor who demonstrates excellence in bedside teach and in support PA students’ growth and development. 

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