Thursday, October 22, 2026
photos by Alexandra Butler, photographer/photo editor
Natalie M. Sanchez receives a pin during a white coat ceremony for physician assistant studies students in Penn College’s Klump Academic Center.
The School of Nursing & Health Sciences held two white coat ceremonies in August: one celebrating the Class of 2026 as its members transitioned from students to physician assistants and the other welcoming the Class of 2027 into the clinical phase of their education.
On Aug. 7, 25 students were recognized for the successful completion of their education and reaffirmed their commitment to ethical practice, lifelong learning, professionalism and patient-centered care as they enter the profession. Caitlin M. Forsgren, of Williamsport, who was selected by faculty for demonstrating proficiency and professionalism, was the student speaker. During the ceremony, graduating students received a long white coat – a symbol of the professional phase of their careers – and a traditional pin from a physician assistant who supported them throughout their academic journey.
On Aug. 13, 26 students officially transitioned from classroom learning to clinical practice, where they work alongside patients, preceptors and healthcare teams. Kathryn A. Plankenhorn, of Montoursville, a 2023 graduate of the program, served as the keynote speaker.
“By holding ceremonies at both milestones this year, the program honored two important transitions: the culmination of professional preparation for the Class of 2026 and the beginning of clinical training for the Class of 2027,” said Melissa E. Sedor, physician assistant program director. “Moving forward, the white coat ceremony will celebrate students’ entry into the clinical year, recognizing the privilege and responsibility of caring for patients as they begin the clinical phase of their journey.”
Historically, the white coat ceremony was held between the students’ didactic and clinical years, but when COVID caused a schedule change, the program began holding the ceremony just prior to graduation. Sedor said the return to the prior tradition aligns with “a key moment in the students’ professional development: their first direct experiences caring for patients.”
“When students are finished with their summer didactic coursework, we will do a ceremony before clinical rotations begin,” said Tina R. Strayer, coordinator of physician assistant studies. “This represents that the profession is welcoming them into the clinical setting and world. Now they’re going to actually put the things they’ve learned into practice.”
Learn more about Penn College's physician assistant program.
The graduating class of 2026 tunes in for one of its final on-campus "lectures."
Student Caitlin M. Forsgren, of Williamsport, addresses her classmates during the Aug. 7 ceremony.
Student Kathryn A. Plankenhorn, of Montoursville, inspires the Class of 2027 during the Aug. 13 event.
Dustin T. Bowles, of Williamsport, receives his white coat from Cheressa L. Mix, instructor of physician assistant.
Courtney L. Petrilak, of Waymart, crosses the stage in the Klump Academic Center Auditorium, where a loved waits to add a pin to her newly donned white coat.
Students face the audience to thank those who supported their academic journeys.
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