The University of Houston College of Optometry welcomed the Class of 2030 to the optometric profession during its annual White Coat Ceremony, marking the students’ transition into clinical training and patient care. The event was held on Aug. 20 at UH Optometry’s Doctors of Texas State Optical Alumni Education Center.

Before faculty placed the students’ first white coats on their shoulders, speakers emphasized that the milestone represents far more than academic achievement.

Dr. Michael Twa, Dean of UH Optometry, centered his remarks on character and human connection, reminding students that becoming a clinician requires learning both the science of optometry and the responsibilities that extend beyond clinical knowledge.

“What we do as physicians is more than to diagnose and treat disease,” said Dr. Twa. “We care for people, and that is often the most important part of what we do.”

Dr. Twa also described the white coat as an internationally recognized symbol of hope, service, leadership and integrity, underscoring the trust placed in those who wear it.

That message was echoed by University of Houston President Renu Khator, who encouraged students to approach every patient encounter with excellence throughout their careers.

Dr. Moes Nasser (’82), Benedict Professor and Board President of the Foundation for Education, Research and Vision, spoke about the lasting impact they can make in everyday moments – from helping a child see clearly in the classroom to identifying a serious medical condition early enough to change a life.

“Your white coat gives you responsibility, not superiority,” Dr. Nasser said. “Your patients may not remember what test you performed or what number you recorded. But they will remember that you listened. Remember that no instrument can replace sound judgment, and no technology can replace compassion.”

Representing the Texas Optometric Association (TOA), Dr. Mary Kate Walters – Benedict Professor and member of the TOA Board of Trustees – urged students to embrace both the path and the vast opportunities ahead. She emphasized that faculty, classmates, mentors, and the broader profession are fully invested in their success.

“Today, you aren’t simply beginning a degree program,” she said. “You are becoming part of something bigger than yourself.”

Dr. Twa later highlighted the intertwined histories of UH Optometry and the Texas Optometric Association as a powerful example of the professional community and alumni supporting students as they enter the field. TOA, which sponsored the white coats, played a key role in the college's founding in 1952 and continues to drive its growth today.

The students also put their own voice to their aspirations with the recitation of their class pledge, which they created as a group. Together, they promised to pursue lifelong learning, advocate for patients, support one another, serve with compassion, and “see the whole person, not just the prescription.” They concluded by affirming their collective vow “to serve, lead, and inspire.”

Following the formal coating, the Class of 2030 stood alongside optometrists in attendance, including UHCO faculty and alumni, to recite the Optometric Oath, formally pledging their duty to their patients and the profession.

The White Coat Ceremony served as a centerpiece of Orientation Week on Aug. 17-21. Across five days of workshops, equipment pickup, and rapport-building activities, new students engaged with student organizations, faculty and staff across UH Optometry.