BSN Juniors Receive White Coats Over Family Weekend
(October 23, 2025) — On the first night of Georgetown’s annual Family Weekend, juniors in the Berkley School of Nursing’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program convened in Gaston Hall surrounded by their family and friends to receive white coats from their faculty during an annual ceremony.
Francyne Diola (N’27) with nursing faculty member Jeremy Sabatino, MSN, RN
The White Coat ceremony, held this year on October 17, marks the entrance of student nurses into their chosen profession.
“The ceremony was a great time to reflect on the work we have put in thus far, in the presence of loved ones who have encouraged us throughout our journey these past couple years,” said Francyne Diola (N’27). “It’s a privilege to receive something that symbolizes our decision to commit to thoughtful patient care surrounded by so many who fuel our motivation to succeed as future nurses.”
Faculty led the 42 members of the Class of 2027 in their first “blessing of the hands,” a spiritual moment meant to recognize the importance of nurses’ healing role with patients before individually distributing white coats to students.
Sarah Vittone, DBe, MA, MSN, RN
“This ceremony calls particular attention to your choice to be part of a profession that will build your scientific knowledge, clinical discernment, passion, and ability to provide unparalleled patient care,” said Sarah Vittone, DBe, MA, MSN, RN, senior director of the BSN Program.
While wearing their white coats, the students took an oath to “promote and continuously advocate for those committed to my care and strive to protect the health, safety, and rights of all, regardless of their social or economic status, personal attributes or nature of their health problems.”
At the close of the ceremony, attendees reconvened on Healy Lawn for a lighting ceremony where students held candles commemorating the early work of Florence Nightingale. “The light represents dedication and selfless work,” said Vittone.
Heather Wilpone-Welborn
GUMC Communications
More Scenes from the BSN White Coat Ceremony
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