A tradition of support: Alumni provide coats for future physicians and researchers
Posted on April 16, 2026 by Marketing and Communications
For many years, the USA Medical Alumni Association (MAA) has marked an important milestone for medical students by providing white coats for rising third-year classes. On April 9, in partnership with the Office of Student Affairs, the association continued that tradition by distributing embroidered white coats to the Class of 2028.
鈥淭here is a profound sense of pride in watching the next generation of Whiddon College of Medicine physicians take this next step,鈥� said Hayley Chancey, assistant director of medical alumni relations. 鈥淭he USA Medical Alumni Association is honored to provide these coats 鈥� a tradition that represents the enduring support of those who came before them.鈥�
This year also marks an expansion of that support. For the first time, the Medical Alumni Association will sponsor the purchase of 46 blue lab coats for all Ph.D. students in the Basic Medical Sciences Graduate Program.
鈥淚t鈥檚 a tradition we look forward to continuing for years to come as we broaden and expand our student support initiatives through alumni generosity,鈥� said Meg Laubinger, director of development for medical affairs and alumni relations.
Robert Barrington, Ph.D., director of the Office of Research Education and Training, said the Basic Medical Sciences Graduate Program is thankful for the new partnership with the USA Medical Alumni Association.
"Their recognition of the importance of foundational biomedical research, along with their investment in the scientist trainees that help drive it forward, comes at a meaningful time for our program and community," he said.
The program is especially appreciative of MAA's support of its upcoming Blue Coat Ceremony, during which first-year graduate students will receive lab coats as an official transition into their research laboratories.
"This milestone will highlight their active membership into the scientific enterprise, and the provision of lab coats serves as a powerful symbol of identity, responsibility, and belonging," Barrington said. "MAA's contribution helps launch this new tradition in a memorable and impactful way."
These milestone moments are made possible by the continued generosity of USA Medical Alumni Association members, whose annual dues directly support students. M.D. and Ph.D. alumni, as well as former residents and fellows of the Whiddon College of Medicine, are invited to join or renew their membership at: .
White Coat Ceremony will be held Wednesday, June 24, at the USA Mitchell Center.