During the ceremony, rising third-year medical students are cloaked with white coats, the traditional dress of physicians for more than 100 years. Afterward, students take the Medical Student Oath, a promise to uphold the human aspects of medicine, such as sensitivity, compassion and respect for patients. Dr. Todd, acting as the new President of the USA School of Medicine Alumni, and will lead the students in the Medical Student Oath.

Dr. Todd says, “The White Coat Ceremony is an important milestone in a medical student’s long journey. I remember mine and was privileged to participate in my son’s ceremony three years ago. As president of the Alumni Association, I am honored to administer the oath.” (Photo: Dr. John Todd)

Also at the event, select rising seniors, as well as residents and faculty, are inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society. Inductees are selected for practicing patient-centered medical care with integrity, compassion and altruism. Election to this organization is by vote of medical students.

About Dr. John L. Todd

Dr. John Todd, Medical Director of The Shoulder Center at Baldwin Bone & Joint, P.C., is a board- certified orthopaedic surgeon who is fellowship trained in both shoulder reconstruction and sports medicine. Dr. Todd has been in practice for more than 20 years, and his primary clinical focus is non- operative and operative care of the shoulder. He has dedicated his career to helping patients with both chronic degenerative problems and injuries of the shoulder as part of Baldwin Bone & Joint – a group of fellowship-trained orthopaedic specialists. The Shoulder Center has office locations in Daphne and Orange Beach, AL. For more information, call 251.625.2663 or visit theshouldercenter.net.