OSU Nursing Program welcomes its largest cohort of students this fall

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Media Contact: Kirsi McDowell | Communications Coordinator | 405-744-8320 | kirsi@okstate.edu

Oklahoma State University's nursing program honored 101 students at its fourth annual White Coat Ceremony in the Student Union Ballroom, welcoming the largest group of nursing students entering their professional education to be recognized since the program began in 2023.

Following the student processional, College of Education and Human Sciences Dean Jon Pedersen welcomed students, faculty and family. 

“I look into the audience and see all these wonderful nursing students, soon to be nursing professionals,” he said. “All of our faculty and staff have worked diligently to bring this BSN program to fruition.”

Dr. Pedersen introduced Dr. Jeanette Mendez, senior vice president and provost of OSU. Mendez highlighted the importance of this program and the impact its students have on the community.

“The nursing shortage is one of the most pressing challenges facing Oklahoma,” she said. “Each one of you has chosen to step forward and meet that challenge.”

The White Coat Ceremony signifies an important transition, marking the completion of a rigorous admissions process as the nursing students continue their professional journey through in-depth coursework, hands-on lab simulations, and a wide range of clinical rotations.

Pedersen and Mendez described the nursing program and its students as embodying OSU’s land-grant mission of service to others, commitment to knowledge and leadership for the public good. Mendez told students that no matter what path they pursue next, they will be stepping into one of the most influential careers.

“Whether you practice in a clinical setting, hospital, home health or research, you will be engaged in one of the most impactful careers in the world,” Mendez said. 

“Not only is the work you’re preparing to do a career — it is a calling — and we are honored to walk alongside you as you begin this journey.”

Dr. Tracy Kendall, nursing clinical assistant professor, explained the history of the white coat tradition and highlighted its importance.

“The official White Coat Ceremony is used to symbolize the start of your education into the science and art of nursing,” she said. “The white coat not only symbolizes the work you have done to get to this point, but it also symbolizes the work you’re willing to do to get to the end.”

Dr. Alana Cluck, nursing program director, presented students with their white coats along with other nursing faculty. Following the presentation, Cluck led the class in reciting the nursing oath before closing out the ceremony.

Since its inception in 2023, OSU’s nursing program has seen exceptional growth and recognition. 

For more information about OSU's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, visit okla.st/BSN.

Story By: Annie Ross | annie.ross@okstate.edu