Lincoln Memorial University’s (LMU) College of Mathematics, Sciences, and Health Professions hosted the White Coat Ceremony for the Class of 2027 Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) students on Friday, Oct. 4, at the Knoxville Convention Center. The ceremony, a momentous occasion in the journey to becoming occupational therapists, symbolizes the transition from the classroom to clinical practice and the commitment to patient-centered care.
The ceremony began with an invocation delivered by Acacia Gambrel, OTD, OTR/L, followed by a welcome from Colleen Bullen, OTD, OTR/L, interim program director. Adam Rollins, PhD, dean of the College of Mathematics, Sciences and Health Professions, shared remarks that emphasized the importance of occupational therapy in transforming lives, particularly in underserved and rural communities—an integral part of LMU’s mission.
The keynote address was delivered by Ashley Swift, chief communications officer and director of outreach for CTNNB1 Connect and Cure, and clinical informatics educator at Covenant Health. Her speech highlighted the vital role occupational therapists play in promoting independence and improving quality of life for individuals with physical and cognitive challenges.
Allison Martin, PhD, officiated the Coating Ceremony, where each student was presented with their white coat by faculty Jillian Pindar, OTD, OTR/L and Deb Zeitlin, OTD, OTR/L. The white coat, a significant symbol of clinical readiness and ethical responsibility, was received with pride by the students. Following the coating, Debbie Ruediger, OTD, OTR/L, CHSE, CAPS, led the students in the recitation of the OT Pledge and Creed, affirming their dedication to ethical practices and compassionate patient care.
Student Mia Gamberi, OT-S, president of the Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA) for the Class of 2026, delivered an inspiring address, encouraging her peers to embrace the opportunities ahead with resilience and passion. The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Elizabeth Schmidt, PhD, OTR/L, who congratulated the students on this significant milestone and highlighted the importance of perseverance and collaboration as they enter clinical practice.
The Class of 2027 is a diverse and accomplished group of 19 students from across the country, all bringing unique perspectives and experiences to LMU’s OTD program. The students honored during the ceremony include:
Chloe Arnwine – Knoxville, TN, University of Tennessee Knoxville
Molly Boothroyd – Canton, NC, East Tennessee State University
Morgan Bussert – Shelby, NC, University of the Cumberlands
Lucas Clotfelter – Jacksboro, TN, Lincoln Memorial University
Nicolette Curcio – Tucson, AZ, Northern Arizona University
Edmond Drake – Gatlinburg, TN, Lincoln Memorial University
Brooke Foster – Maynardville, TN, Lincoln Memorial University
Austen Mae Meyers – Knoxville, TN, Tennessee Wesleyan University
Nicholas Miller – Murfreesboro, TN, Middle Tennessee State University
Makenna Morris – Fayetteville, TN, Union Commonwealth University
Sarah Oppenheimer – Olive Hill, KY, Morehead State University
Emily Petty – Iron City, TN, University of Tennessee Chattanooga
Zoe Pryor – Chattanooga, TN, University of Tennessee Knoxville
Bailee Robbins – Jamestown, TN, Tennessee Tech University
Haley Stallard – Rutledge, TN, Lincoln Memorial University
Megan Summers – Oak Ridge, TN, Carson Newman University
Katie Tuggle – Knoxville, TN, Lincoln Memorial University
Avery Wilson – Chattanooga, TN, Marshall University
Megan Young – Danville, CA, Penn State University
The ceremony concluded with a recessional featuring the newly coated Class of 2027, ready to embark on their clinical rotations and future careers in occupational therapy.
For more information about LMU’s Doctor of Occupational Therapy program, visit LMU's website or contact the College of Mathematics, Sciences, and Health Professions at (423) 869-3611.
Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in liberal arts and professional studies. The main campus is in Harrogate, Tennessee. For more information about the undergraduate and graduate programs available at LMU, contact the Office of Admissions at 423-869-6280 or email at admissions@LMUnet.edu.
