A New Chapter Begins for Incoming ND Students

On September 12, 2025, NUNM celebrated a milestone in the journey of its newest Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) students: the White Coat Ceremony. This cherished rite of passage marks the transition from aspiring student to student doctor and underscores the values of service, compassion, and patient-centered care that define the naturopathic profession. Families, friends, and online viewers from across the globe joined the community in Portland to witness the occasion.

Kelly Baltazar, ND, DC, Dean of the College of Naturopathic Medicine, opened the ceremony with a warm welcome. “You come from different states across the country, some as far as Puerto Rico and Malaysia,” she said. “You span age groups and experiences, and each of you brings your own unique worldview. The diversity of paths you have taken to get here only makes our community stronger and more resilient. Welcome to the NUNM family.”

Leadership and Inspiration

Melanie Henriksen, ND, LAc, CNM, President and CEO of NUNM, followed with a message about the profound responsibility of becoming a naturopathic physician. Drawing on her experience, she reminded students that their education is more than academics; it’s a path of service. “These opportunities will challenge you, they will change you, and often, without even realizing the impact that you have, you are going to transform the lives of your patients and of our community,” she said. Dr. Henriksen encouraged students to approach their work with humility, courage, and gratitude, reminding them that their white coat is both a symbol and a tool of focus, responsibility, and connection.

The Personal Meaning of the White Coat

Third-year ND student and Student Government Association (SGA) president Samantha Jensen reflected on the personal significance of the white coat. Sharing her own journey of uncertainty, grief, and eventual belonging, Jensen emphasized the community and support that defines the NUNM experience. “When I finally made the decision to pursue naturopathy, I questioned whether I belonged,” she said. “Then came my own white coat ceremony. I put my white coat on, and something clicked. That coat became more than a symbol. It became a reminder of the kind of doctor I want to be: someone who leads with curiosity, kindness, and understanding.”

The Science Behind the Symbol

Dee Saunders, ND, MS, NUNM Associate Vice President of Clinical Education and Administration, introduced students to the concept of “enclothed cognition,” the idea that the clothes we wear influence our psychological state. Drawing on research showing that wearing a doctor’s white coat can enhance focus and attention, she offered students a powerful perspective on the meaning behind their new coats.“ “Very soon, as you’re getting ready to enter the clinic and you’re juggling competing priorities of holding space for your patients, typing on the computer, building rapport, and speaking intellectually with your attending, just remember, this coat you’re wearing has power; it’s a reminder of your commitment and your focus,” Dr. Saunders said.

Donning the White Coat

Following these inspiring words, the incoming students took part in the time-honored tradition of donning their white coats. Faculty assisted in-person students while friends and family assisted the online students, officially welcoming them into the NUNM community. One by one, names were called, and students were cloaked in the white coat that symbolizes their commitment to patient care, lifelong learning, and the principles of naturopathic medicine.

Taking the Oath

The ceremony culminated with the recitation of the student-created oath of professionalism, developed by each incoming class during orientation and uniquely written each year. Led by Taylor Boham, ND, Assistant Medical and Residency Director, the oath reinforced core values such as humility, integrity, curiosity, and compassion. Students pledged to honor both evidence and tradition, safeguard trust, listen deeply, and advocate for accessible, holistic care.

A Toast to the Hero’s Journey

As the formal program concluded, Nancy Scarlett, ND, offered a celebratory toast framed by the concept of the “Hero’s Journey,” encouraging students to “embrace the people around you, not just your teachers, but your classmates they will be lifelong colleagues and friends because you’ve been through so much together.”

The Path Ahead

The White Coat Ceremony is more than a tradition; it is a profound reminder of the responsibilities, opportunities, and impact of becoming a naturopathic physician. For the incoming class, it signals the start of an intensive journey of study, clinical experience, and personal growth. “Our world is calling out for helpers,” Dr. Baltazar reminded the cohort. “Thank you for stepping into this path. We are honored to have you as part of the NUNM community

With white coats now on, the entering class of 2025 steps forward into their journey as healers, educators, and advocates. Guided by community, tradition, and the enduring principles of naturopathic medicine, they carry with them the tools, the knowledge, and the compassion to make a difference in the lives of their patients and the world around them.