College of Medicine welcomes largest class in its history

The College of Medicine formally welcomed its largest class in history, celebrating 192 students during a White Coat Ceremony on Friday, July 12, 2024. The “white coat,” which is placed upon each incoming NEOMED College of Medicine student during the ceremony, represents the beginning of their journey to becoming a doctor. Of the incoming class, 82% of the students are from Ohio.

"We're very proud of the fact that our graduates are from Ohio and for Ohio—doctors who provide health care for the people in communities throughout the Akron, Canton, Cleveland, and Youngstown areas—as well as throughout the state and beyond," said President Langell.

Prior to having their white coats placed upon them, students heard about the significance of the white coat and how their time at NEOMED will shape them as physicians.

“As physicians, we must honor the trust that patients place in us with an unwavering moral commitment and a determination to offer them the best care possible, both physically and emotionally,” said Marc Basson, M.D., Ph.D., M.B.A., dean of NEOMED’s College of Medicine.

Dr. Basson also honored Eugene Mowad, M.D., vice dean and senior associate dean of student affair for the College of Medicine, with the Dean’s Leadership Award for many years of outstanding service to the College of Medicine and its students.

“A practicing pediatrician himself, he is well recognized as an outstanding educator, a compassionate advisor and a strong advocate for our students,” Dr. Basson said of Dr. Mowad upon presenting him with the award.

NEOMED’s College of Medicine has a long history of training physicians from Ohio who go on to practice in their home state. Its most recent (2024) graduating class had a 98% residency match, with 55% of the University’s M.D. graduates choosing to stay in Ohio to pursue their careers, where they now serve communities throughout the state in a variety of specialties.