For physical therapists, the white coat ceremony is a tradition that dates back more than 40 years. It signifies the transition from the classroom and didactic learning to the clinic and experiential learning for students in health care professions.
The history of the White Coat Ceremony, held annually in May, at the University at Buffalo School of Public Health and Health Professions dates back to 2006.
Mr. Alfred Caffiero, a dear friend and generous donor to the Doctor of Physical Therapy program, proposed starting a white coat ceremony for the UB DPT program. Caffiero provided the funding to purchase the white coats for each student in that class and continues to provide support for the program to this day.