CDU Pipeline Program Hosts 25th Annual Junior White Coat Ceremony

The CDU Pipeline Program celebrated a significant milestone with the 25th Annual Junior White Coat Ceremony, honoring 140 Pre-K–12th grade students from the Saturday Science Academy II (SSA II) for their achievements in science and healthcare education.

The CDU Pipeline Program celebrated a significant milestone with the 25th Annual Junior White Coat Ceremony, honoring 140 Pre-K–12th grade students from the Saturday Science Academy II (SSA II) for their achievements in science and healthcare education. The event not only recognized students’ dedication to learning but also symbolized their commitment to pursuing careers in the health sciences.

The ceremony featured remarks from CDU administration, CDU faculty, SSA II alumni, former SSA director Lorraine Grey, and Honorable Steven Bradford, all of whom delivered powerful remarks reflecting on SSA II’s enduring impact. Their words underscored the program’s role in transforming young minds, fostering a love for science, and shaping the future of healthcare.

During  his remarks, the Honorable Steven Bradford stated, “It’s often said, ‘seeing is believing,’ but I disagree with that. Believing is seeing; and this program helps young folks believe they can do anything they want.”

The Junior White Coat Ceremony, a long-standing CDU tradition, awards white coats to students who successfully complete three consecutive SSA II sessions within a year (Winter, Spring, and Fall). All students who participate in at least one session are recognized with a certificate during the ceremony.

The event not only recognized students’ dedication to learning but also symbolized their commitment to pursuing careers in the health sciences.

Amber Harris, CDU Campus Security Officer and parent of five-year-old SSA II student Jace Jacobs, expressed her enthusiasm for the program’s influence on young minds.

“I hope my child gains the skills and hands-on experience he needs to explore the world of science. At the age he is now, this program will help open his interest in the field of learning how things work and the big challenges we face daily,” Harris shared.

Young Jace, already inspired by the program, added, “Saturday Science is awesome.” While he hasn’t yet decided on a career, his aspirations are heartfelt: “I want to help poor people.”

As SSA II marks its 25th year, program leaders reflected on its lasting impact on students and the community. “It was an honor and a blessing to be a part of the 25th Annual Junior White Coat Ceremony. For over two decades, SSA II has created a pipeline to Science Technology Engineering Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM) careers, giving students from diverse backgrounds early exposure to the STEMM fields,” said Dr. Dulcie Kermah, Executive Director of CDU Pipeline Programs. “This program builds confidence, fosters curiosity, and nurtures future STEMM professionals.”

Through engaging lessons, mentorship, and exposure to real-world applications of science, SSA II continues to play a vital role in shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals and scientists.

As CDU celebrates this silver jubilee of the Junior White Coat Ceremony, the University remains committed to expanding opportunities for young learners and ensuring a future where excellent health and wellness are accessible to all.

Registration is now open for the next cohort of SSA II. The Spring 2025 session will take place on the campus of CDU every Saturday from April 12 to June 7, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.. To learn more about the SSA II and to apply visit the CDU website and join CDU Pipeline Programs on Linktree.