University Times

Receiving a white coat is an academic tradition for many first-year pharmacy students throughout the United States. Now, thanks to Gordon J. Vanscoy, associate professor at the Pitt School of Pharmacy, pharmacy students here can be assured of the continuation of that professional induction ceremony, which began at Pitt last year.

Vanscoy’s $220,000 trust has ensured that the ceremony will continue for decades.

“The University inaugurated the white coat ceremony last year,” said Patricia Dowley Kroboth, interim dean of the school. “To have an outstanding alumnus and faculty member name this annual event is inspiring not only to our students but also to our alumni and faculty.”

During the Jan. 30 ceremony, each of the 99 first-year pharmacy students was garbed in a white coat, the symbol of clinical service and care. After receiving their white coats, students publicly declared their commitment to integrity, ethical behavior and honor, by reciting the Pledge of Professionalism before faculty, family and friends.

“My father always wanted a doctor in the family. He was so proud of my success and of the work that I have done to serve others throughout my career,” said Vanscoy. “After his recent passing, I wanted to do something in his honor that would articulate his ambitions for his children and his trust in the clinical work of those in health care.”

Vanscoy earned a B.S. degree in pharmacy and an M.B.A. at Pitt and a Doctor of Pharmacy degree at Duquesne University. He is an assistant dean for managed care at Pitt and the chair and CEO of the Monroeville-based University Pharmacotherapy Associates.