The Physician Assistant Program marked a milestone this spring, celebrating its 10th annual White Coat Ceremony and welcoming the Class of 2027, the program’s tenth cohort. The Class of 2027 began their studies in January of 2026 and gathered for the ceremony on Feb. 20 at 4:30 p.m. in the MBRB Auditorium.
Keynote speaker Bill Churchwell, PA-C, a 2018 graduate of the program, reflected on his journey from student to practicing clinicians and the responsibility symbolized by the white coat. He now practices in malignant hematology at the UNC Cancer Center, caring for patients with complex oncologic conditions, and remains actively involved in mentorship and program leadership.
During the ceremony, students received their white coats for the first time, marking their formal entry into the profession and the beginning of their clinical training. The event celebrated not only the achievements of the newest class, but also a decade of educating physician assistants committed to compassionate care, collaboration and service to their communities.