HUNTINGTON, W.Va.—The Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine held its fifth White Coat Ceremony for its Physician Assistant (PA) Program Class of 2027 students Friday, June 20, 2025, at the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center.  

During the ceremony, 28 students received their white coats and recited the Physician Assistant Professional Oath. The tradition marks the PA student transition into the clinical phase of the program. Additionally, Jill O’Connor, PA-C, adjunct professor and preceptor, was honored with “Recognition of an Outstanding PA” for her contributions to the program.  

“The Class of 2027 continues to impress us with their curiosity, perseverance and commitment to their education. They will be great additions to the profession,” said Ben Spurlock, MS, PA-C, director of the PA Program at Marshall University. "The fact that we're celebrating our fifth White Coat ceremony is a testament to the strong work of our faculty and staff who have built this program.” 

Marshall University’s PA program is housed in the Robert W. Coon Education Building on the campus of the Hershel “Woody” Williams VA Medical Center in Huntington. The 28-month program was established in 2018 in response to increased demand for physician assistants across the nation’s health care workforce. The program’s inaugural class of 25 students graduated with their Master of Medical Science degrees in April 2023.  

“I’m incredibly grateful and proud to be starting this new adventure that is preparing me to care for West Virginia residents and our nation’s veterans,” said Christina Casey of Portland, Oregon and member of the Class of 2027. "This moment represents nearly a decade of hard work—from taking a non-traditional path to PA school to moving across the country to attend Marshall University.” 

Additional information about the PA Program at Marshall University is available at https://jcesom.marshall.edu/students/physician-assistant-program/. 

Date Posted: Friday, June 20, 2025