The SIU dental hygiene program class of 2026 was among the participants in the program’s inaugural white coat ceremony. Photo provided.
February 23, 2026
SIU’s Dental Hygiene Program hosts inaugural white coat ceremony
CARBONDALE, Ill. — The Dental Hygiene Program at Southern Illinois University Carbondale recently launched a symbolic new tradition by hosting its inaugural white coat ceremony.
“The ceremony represents far more than the presentation of a white coat,” said Stacey McKinney, dental hygiene program director and associate professor. “It symbolizes commitment, responsibility and the transition from classroom learning to patient-centered clinical care. By donning the white coats, our students formally accept the ethical standards, professionalism, compassion and lifelong learning that define the dental hygiene profession. The white coat also serves as a visible reminder of the trust placed in dental hygienists by patients, colleagues and the communities they serve.”
While other SIU medical field programs have hosted white coat ceremonies, this is the first time for the dental hygiene program. About 90 students from all levels of the program participated, giving them the chance to enjoy the meaningful, traditional and profession-forward experience. McKinney noted that the ceremony also illustrated the program’s commitment to equity and the collective identity of the dental hygiene profession.
Special senior recognition
In addition, the senior students received their class pin, marking the final step in their academic and clinical preparations prior to graduation and signifying their transition from student to dental hygiene professional.
“The class pin serves as a lasting symbol of achievement, perseverance and professional identity,” McKinney said. “It reflects the knowledge, skills and values developed throughout the program, along with the dedication the students have had to reach this important milestone.
SIU’s dental hygiene class of 2026 includes, listed by hometown:
Illinois
Belvidere – Karolyn Anderson
Bloomington – Mairi Koirala, Owen Osborne
Chicago – Marlene Gromek
Chicago/Mount Greenwood – Alyssa Milton
Evanston – Loreli Rojas
Havana – Morgan Niederer
Lakemoor – Julia Fohlmeister
Liberty – Paige Todd
Marion – Olivia Hartwell
Metropolis – Maci Miller
Murphysboro – Brynnlie Fox, Makayla Nagel
Naperville – Phaedra Pampinella
Okawville – Erin Nilles
Oakwood – Madison Doan
Pontiac – Cameron Trost
Raymond – Micah Gehlbach
Waukegan – Karina Delgadillo
Missouri
Clark – Alexandra Mobley
Farmington – Lacey Finch
Hawk Point – Grace Lafeber
Jackson – Hadley Wyatt
Marble Hill – Ally Whitener
St. Louis – Jessica Orange
Tennessee
Morristown – Amy Kamran Disfani
Officials from SIU’s dental hygiene program, health professions programs and College of Health and Human Sciences, along with event sponsor, Ultradent, were on hand for the white coat ceremony at Carterville High School.