Nearly 40 students from the Mount Saint Mary College Nurse Practitioner program were honored at the Spring 2026 White Coat Ceremony on Friday, May 8.
The ceremony, held in the Dominican Center Chapel, celebrated the graduates’ transition to the professional nurse practitioner role. The students’ white coats were presented to them by chosen family members and friends, symbolizing the support systems that helped them reach this milestone.
The event featured opening remarks by Professor Nancy Gartin-Checchi, Graduate Coordinator, who emphasized the significance of the achievement.
“The white coat, or post-master certificate that you will receive today, is more than a garment or a piece of clothing,” said Checchi. “It is a symbol of trust, professionalism, and compassion.”
Following a prayer by Fr. Gregoire Fluet, who asked that the white coat “be a reminder that they now carry special obligations to their fellow human beings,” Dr. Robert Gervasi, President of the Mount, congratulated the grads on a job well done.
“The culture of nursing really has become the culture of Mount Saint Mary College,” said Gervasi. “Thank you for leading the way for us.”
Dr. Ann Marie Brooks, Interim Dean of the School of Nursing, urged the new Nurse Practitioners to embrace their unique power within the healthcare landscape.
“The ANA recently declared the theme for 2026 National Nurses Week: The Power of Nurses,” Brooks noted. “You’re the coordinators of the healthcare system. You will help patients and families navigate the system.”
Student speaker Melissa Mapes of Astoria, N.Y. was selected by her classmates to offer a reflection on their journey through the rigorous program.
“We made it to the day that we’ve all been picturing,” Mapes said. “We’ve learned the importance of maintaining that balance, of filling up our cup so we can give to others, to be better people and better professionals.”
The commitment of the Class of 2026 was further highlighted in the ceremony program, where students shared personal reflections on their new roles. As graduate Jensy Cherian of Brewster, N.Y. shared, “This white coat represents responsibility, integrity, and trust placed in our profession. I am honored to step forward with gratitude, professionalism, and a dedication to serving others.”
At the end of the ceremony, the graduates joined together to recite the Nurse Practitioner Oath, pledging to serve humanity with integrity and to “advocate for those whose voices may not be heard.”