BY Sarah Smykowski
Published August 10, 2026
The White Coat Ceremony is an annual rite of passage for incoming students that marks the beginning of their dental school journey. Students are presented with a white coat, a symbol of clinical service and care, and recite the dentist’s pledge in unison.
One week after the School of Dental Medicine said farewell to the graduating Class of 2026, it welcomed 25 new students during the International Dentist Program (IDP) White Coat Ceremony, held May 8 at the Reikart House in Amherst.
The IDP Class of 2028 hails from all over the world, representing 12 different countries and speaking 16 languages. The cohort includes foreign-trained dentists, a multimedia supervisor, a German language teacher and public health consultant, among other professionals. The class is defined by their dedication to volunteerism and service, providing thousands of hours of care in dental camps and community health centers.
Later in the summer, 95 first-year dental students were welcomed to the school at the DDS White Coat Ceremony held Aug. 7 at Slee Hall on North Campus.
The DDS Class of 2030 represents a global community as well. While 85% of incoming students are New York State residents, students were born in or have citizenship in 16 countries. They speak 25 languages. The class includes former EMTs, teachers, triathletes and a fashion design assistant. The class has dedicated thousands of hours to volunteering and outreach here in Buffalo and around the world.
The ceremonies offer an opportunity to celebrate with friends and family before the semester officially begins. Good luck to all students who are embarking on this journey, and welcome to the SDM!