Ponce Health Sciences University BVI Campus Class of 2029 reciting the Hippocratic Oath during their White Coat Ceremony on July 10, 2025. Photo: PHSU

Members of the Class of 2029 of the Ponce Health Sciences University, BVI Campus. Photo: PHSU

Ponce Health Sciences University is being housed at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College in Paraquita Bay, Tortola. Photo: Internet Source

The PSHU Class of 2029 received their white coats during the medical school’s inaugural White Coat Investiture Ceremony on Thursday, July 10. 2025, at Elieene L. Parsons Auditorium of H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) in Paraquita Bay.

Deshoy Ivan Ward and Koiya Rymer of the VI received their white coats together with 30 other student doctors from the projected 40 students for this cohort, who come from Puerto Rico and the United States. 

‘An important & pivotal moment in your lives’- VP PHSU

Vice President of PHSU, Dr Jose Daniel Pérez, MD, MSC, MPH, said the ceremony is an opportunity to reflect and share this moment with not only students, but family, staff and the people who helped them get to this point. 

“Today definitely marks an important and pivotal moment in your lives, a day that you will undoubtedly look back on with pride and perhaps a pinch of anticipation for the incredible journey that lies ahead.”

Dr Perez told the student doctors, their academic career in medicine has officially begun. 

“It’s going to prepare you to do the symbolic act of wearing the white coat today. Take a moment, reflect and truly absorb the significance of this occasion.”

He added that medicine is not an ordinary career. 

“It is a call that you have, Doctors have a call, and definitely you have it.”

‘More than a uniform’- PHSU President

Meanwhile, the President of PHSU, Gino Natalicchio, told students that the White Coat is more than a uniform. 

“It is a symbol of trust, responsibility and compassion. It marks your official entry into the noble profession of medicine. From today forward, you’re carrying not only the coat, but the hopes of the community you will serve.”

He also said the White Coat Ceremony at the VI campus marks a milestone in PHSU’s journey. 

“This has been a journey, a very interesting journey, we’re so excited to be here.”

The inaugural White Coat Ceremony was attended by government ministers, including Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), Minister for Health and Social Development Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R9) and Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports Hon Sharie B. de Castro (AL).