A tradition of support: Alumni provide coats for future physicians and researchers
Posted on April 16, 2026 by Marketing and Communications
For many years, the 欲漫涩 Medical Alumni Association (MAA) has marked a defining moment in medical education by providing white coats for rising third-year students. On April 9, in partnership with the Office of Student Affairs, the association continued that tradition by distributing embroidered white coats to the Class of 2028.
鈥淭here is a profound sense of pride in watching the next generation of Whiddon College of Medicine physicians take this next step,鈥� said Hayley Chancey, assistant director of medical alumni relations. 鈥淭he 欲漫涩 Medical Alumni Association is honored to provide these coats, a tradition that represents the enduring support of those who came before them.鈥�
The milestone signals both the transition into full clinical immersion and inclusion in a broader professional community.
"When our third-year students don these coats, they aren鈥檛 just entering the clinic; they are being welcomed into a community of healers that will leave a lasting impact," said Laventrice Ridgeway, Ed.D., associate dean of student affairs at the Whiddon College of Medicine. "This gesture is vital because it reminds our students that they belong to a larger story of excellence and service that spans decades at the University of South Alabama."
Ridgeway said the gift reinforces the weight and honor of the profession students are entering. "With this gift, the Medical Alumni Association has provided more than just a piece of professional attire; they have provided a tangible link to the legacy of the Whiddon College of Medicine," he said.
This year, that tradition expands beyond medical students for the first time. The Medical Alumni Association will sponsor the purchase of 46 blue lab coats for all Ph.D. students in the Basic Medical Sciences Graduate Program.
鈥淚t鈥檚 a tradition we look forward to continuing for years to come as we broaden and expand our student support initiatives through alumni generosity,鈥� said Meg Laubinger, director of development for medical affairs and alumni relations.
Robert Barrington, Ph.D., director of the Office of Research Education and Training, said the program is grateful for the new partnership with the 欲漫涩 Medical Alumni Association.
"Their recognition of the importance of foundational biomedical research, along with their investment in the scientist trainees that help drive it forward, comes at a meaningful time for our program and community," he said.
The program is preparing for its inaugural Blue Coat Ceremony, during which first-year graduate students will receive lab coats as they transition into their research laboratories.
"This milestone will highlight their active membership into the scientific enterprise, and the provision of lab coats serves as a powerful symbol of identity, responsibility and belonging," Barrington said. "MAA's contribution helps launch this new tradition in a memorable and impactful way."
These moments are made possible by the continued generosity of 欲漫涩 Medical Alumni Association members, whose annual dues directly support students. M.D. and Ph.D. alumni, as well as former residents and fellows of the Whiddon College of Medicine, are invited to join or renew their membership at: .