2026 Convocation program
2026 Convocation Program
CALL TO ORDER AND GREETINGS
Sarah Adkins, Pharm.D. Faculty Officer Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine
Jennifer Gwilym, D.O. (‘03) Interim Senior Dean and Chief Academic Officer Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine
Ken Johnson, D.O. Vice President for Health Affairs
Ryan Steere, OMS II National President Representative, Student Government Association, Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine
White Coat Ceremony
Jennifer Gwilym, D.O. (‘03)
Tracy Shaub, D.O. ('92) Dean, Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine at Athens
Isaac Kirstein, D.O. Dean, Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine at Cleveland
William Burke, D.O. ('88) Dean, Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine at Dublin
Congratulations and Pledge
Jennifer Gwilym, D.O. (‘03)
Richard Thacker, D.O. President, American Osteopathic Association
Andrew Eilerman, D.O. (‘03) President, Ohio Osteopathic Association
Shelby Raiser, D.O. President, Society of Alumni and Friends Board of Directors Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine
Adjournment
Jennifer Gwilym, D.O.
A note about today's coating:
Students in the Class of 2030 will be coated alongside members of their small group, a cohort of peers with whom they will learn and grow during the first semester of medical school.
Small group learning is a key part of the Heritage College curriculum. Through small groups, students learn to function effectively in clinical teams, think critically under pressure and actively engage in the learning process.
First-semester small group learning is particularly impactful. Many students forge enduring bonds during this time, as they learn to navigate the challenges of medical school together.
We would like to thank the following organizations for their thoughtful generosity:
The Ohio Osteopathic Foundation for providing the white coats
The Arnold P. Gold Foundation, initiators of the first White Coat Ceremony in 1993, for providing “Keeping Healthcare Human” lapel pins.
Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine
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