MSBS Class of 2019 Induction Ceremony

After studying, submitting their applications, interviewing, and waiting, students from MSBS Class of 2019 have reached a defining moment in their academic, and future, career. With their induction into RVU’s Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences (MSBS) Program, they have chosen a path that will expand their contributions to the world and put them one step closer to achieving their goals.

The highlight of the week was the Induction Ceremony, held on Wednesday, August 8th at RVU. Students were welcomed to the University by Clinton Adams, DO, FACHE, President and CEO of RVU, and welcomed to the MSBS program by MSBS Class of 2018 graduate, Onilia Zorio, now a first-year medical student with RVU’s College of Osteopathic Medicine. Additional speakers included Matthew McMaster, OMS II, President of the Student Government Association; Dwight Hertz, MD, Professor of Pathology; and, Joel Roberts, MD, Instructor of Physiology. Speakers shared inspirational stories, offered words of wisdom, and emphasized the importance of the white coat.

A recognizable feature of the medical profession, the white coat is a symbol of compassion and links students to all who wear it. Marking the transition from text-heavy coursework to applying knowledge and developing clinical skills, the white coat and induction ceremony offer students the opportunity to reflect on the goals they hope to achieve. After announcing their names, undergraduate institution, and hometown, the students were coated by Francina Towne, PhD, Director of the MSBS Program. The ceremony concluded with beverages and hors d’oeuvres.

Leading up to the Induction Ceremony, students participated in activities during Orientation Week to familiarize them with RVU’s campus, introduce them to faculty and staff, and help develop strong communications skills with fellow classmates. After a warm welcome, students dove right into their ice breaker challenge, which involved putting together a story from a set of sequential images (without revealing their own assigned image). Together, students figured out the correct sequence and put to test their communication and problem-solving skills. Other activities included a scavenger hunt, a lunch and leadership segment with SD McMaster, and a service project that involved creating hygiene kits for the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless.

Welcome, MSBS Class of 2019!