Welcoming the OVC Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Class of 2027 to the Veterinary Profession

The Ontario Veterinary College's (OVC) Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Class of 2027 will be welcomed to the veterinary profession during a Professional Welcome Ceremony (sometimes called the "Blue Coat Ceremony") on October 1, 2023.

During the ceremony, which the students' friends and family are invited to attend, each student veterinarian will receive a blue lab coat signifying the beginning of their academic journey in the DVM program. They also receive tokens of appreciation and recognition from industry partners including the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA), the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA), the College of Veterinarians of Ontario (CVO) and the OVC Alumni Association (OVCAA). 

This year's professional welcome ceremony will be hosted by OVC's Dean, Dr. Jeffrey Wichtel, and Associate Dean of Students and Academic, Dr. Joanne Hewson. Guest speakers will include: Dr. Timothy Arthur (President-elect, CVMA), Dr. Matthew Richardson (President, OVMA), Dr. Lorie Gold (Past-President, CVO), and Dr. Tamara Hofstede (Vice-President, OVC Alumni Association). A key feature of the ceremony is the student veterinarians' recitation of the Veterinarian's Oath in recognition of their commitment to the professional and ethical standards as outlined by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association. 

The event will be broadcast via a live video feed beginning at 1:00 p.m. EST for those who are not able to attend in person.