(Cleveland)- The Rielin & Salmen School of Nursing at Truett McConnell University (TMU) recently held its annual White Coat Ceremony. This event is a significant milestone for nursing students as they begin their careers.

Class of 2026 members honored during the September 17 ceremony include Alexandria Bullard, Lydia Clack, Zachary Davidson, Kaitlyn Fernandez, Kason Gooch, Johan Newton, Ella Richardson, Jenna Wilson, and Kalen Yarbrough.

The school says the ceremony symbolizes the student’s commitment to patient-centered care and lifelong learning.

“To become a Truett nurse is to recognize nursing as a ministry to serve others with compassion and humility,” said TMU President Emir Caner.

This year’s keynote address was delivered by Dr. Mael L. D. S. Disseau, Vice President for Academic Services at TMU and the Charles F. Stanley Endowed Chair of Theology. Disseau encouraged the students to uphold the highest standards of ethical and compassionate care, rooted in the Christian faith’s Great Commission.

The nursing students pledged to “serve humanity with excellence and integrity” in their future nursing careers.

The ceremony ended with a benediction by TMU’s Dean of the College of Health and Sciences Dr. Rick Austin.