Members of the PCOM South Georgia Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) Class of 2029 received their white coats in a ceremony held Aug. 8, 2025, at University of Georgia’s Tifton Campus Conference Center.
To Zoe Barrett (DO ’29), the white coat represents her potential as a future physician and her place within a supportive community of peers and mentors.
“PCOM stands out because of the incredible support, understanding, and kindness shown by every classmate and faculty member,” said Barrett. “When I find myself struggling with everything going on—whether it be personal, academic, or professional situations—I know I can rely on the people at PCOM.”
For Barrett and her DO classmates, the white coat ceremony signified an important step in their journeys as aspiring medical professionals. The white coat itself stands as a powerful symbol—reminding physicians of their obligation to approach medicine with empathy and ethical conduct, embodying skill, honesty, and accountability in every patient interaction.
During the ceremony, George T. Fredrick, MD, former primary care skills site director and professor at PCOM South Georgia, addressed the class and highlighted the meaningful role the white coat will have throughout the students’ professional journeys.
“More than a garment, the white coat is the cloak of compassion,” Fredrick said. “Patients often see it as a symbol of trust and hope—a sign of the care they anticipate from you. Every patient you see, every student you teach, every resident you train. You are making a difference in the future.”
In 2019, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), a premier osteopathic medical school established in 1899, extended its commitment to the Southeast by establishing PCOM South Georgia. An additional teaching location in Moultrie, Georgia, PCOM South Georgia offers both a full, four-year medical program leading to the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree and a Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences. PCOM is a private, not-for-profit institution that trains professionals in the health and behavioral sciences fields. Joining PCOM Georgia in Suwanee in helping to meet the healthcare needs of the state, PCOM South Georgia focuses on educating physicians for the region. For more information, visit pcom.edu or call 229-668-3110.
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Kristen Hopf
Communications Content Specialist
Office of Marketing and Communications
Email: kristenho1@pcom.edu
Office: 215-871-6303
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