Students in the Silver Cohort of the Class of 2029 at Lincoln Memorial University-Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine (LMU-CVM) celebrated a significant milestone in their veterinary education during the annual White Coat Ceremony held September 18, 2026 in Tex Turner Arena.
Surrounded by family, friends, faculty and mentors, 122 students received their white coats, recognizing their academic progress and commitment to the responsibilities, ethics and professionalism of veterinary medicine.
Members of the Silver Cohort began the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program in January 2025 and have spent the past several semesters developing the scientific knowledge, clinical skills, and professional foundation needed for success in veterinary medicine. Receiving the white coat marks an important step in their journey and reflects the dedication required to succeed in the profession.
"Receiving the white coat is a significant accomplishment for our Silver Cohort students and a reflection of the dedication they have demonstrated throughout their veterinary education," said Dr. Stacy Anderson, dean of LMU-CVM. "This milestone recognizes both their academic progress and their commitment to the values of the veterinary profession. We are proud of all they have achieved and look forward to seeing them continue to grow as future veterinarians and leaders in animal health."
The ceremony highlighted LMU-CVM's commitment to preparing practice-ready veterinarians through hands-on learning, clinical experiences and mentorship opportunities. As students donned their white coats, they joined a longstanding tradition that recognizes both their progress in the program and their growing responsibility to care for animals and support the people who depend on them.
Dr. Victoria Shamblin, a 2018 LMU-CVM graduate, delivered the keynote address, encouraging students to embrace challenges, pursue lifelong learning and lead with compassion throughout their careers.
The White Coat Ceremony is a meaningful tradition that recognizes students' growth as future veterinarians and their commitment to advancing animal health and welfare. For the Silver Cohort, the event celebrated not only their accomplishments to date but also the opportunities that lie ahead as they continue their veterinary education.
Photos from the White Coat Ceremony are available to view here.
Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in liberal arts and professional studies. The main campus is in Harrogate, Tennessee. For more information about the undergraduate and graduate programs available at LMU, contact the Office of Admissions at 423-869-6280 or email at admissions@lmunet.edu.
