HUNTINGTON, W.Va. - The Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine welcomed its largest class of incoming medical students this week with a series of orientation activities, culminating in the annual white coat ceremony Friday, July 31, at the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center. 

The ceremony marked the official start of the Class of 2030’s medical school journey and symbolized each student’s commitment to the profession of medicine. As part of the event, students received the traditional white coat—a powerful symbol of trust, compassion and professionalism—and took the physician’s oath, pledging to uphold the highest standards in patient care and ethics.  

This year’s class includes:  

• 105 students, representing 24 different states  

• 30 students are from West Virginia  

• 86% are from medically underserved regions   

The White Coat Ceremony was established by the Arnold P. Gold Foundation and first introduced at Marshall University in 1996. It marks one of the most significant milestones for medical students before beginning classes and clinical skills training. Dr. Ali and Mrs. Corinna Oliashirazi generously donated funds to provide each student with a stethoscope. An additional 160 School of Medicine alumni, family and friends sponsored the white coats as well as medical instruments received during orientation for the Class of 2030.  

Kasey D. Stickler, M.D., associate professor of family & community health at the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine and sports medicine physician at Marshall Health Network, delivered the keynote address and served as the honorary cloaker. Stickler was selected by the class of 2026 as the recipient of the Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Faculty Award. In addition, the School of Medicine presented the 2026 White Coat Emeritus Award to David Jude, M.D., professor of obstetrics and gynecology. Jude, who served as chair of the department of obstetrics and gynecology for 15 years, was recognized for his passion for women’s health and commitment to mentorship as a master clinician.   

For news and information about the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, follow us on X at @MUSOMWV, like us on Facebook or visit jcesom.marshall.edu.   

Event photos are available at jcesom.smugmug.com/Events/2026-Events/Class-of-2030-White-Coat-Ceremony. 

Date Posted: Friday, July 31, 2026