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By: Stacey Walters | August 17, 2026
The University of Pikeville (UPIKE) Tanner College of Dental Medicine (TCDM) celebrated a historic milestone on Friday, August 14, as members of its inaugural class participated in the college’s first White Coat Ceremony. The ceremony marked the students’ symbolic entry into the dental profession as they donned their white coats for the first time.
The ceremony represented another significant chapter in the development of TCDM, which welcomed its first class of students in June. The college received initial accreditation from the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) in September 2025, paving the way for the launch of its Doctor of Dental Medicine program.
For dental students, the white coat serves as a symbol of professionalism, responsibility and the trust placed in healthcare providers by their patients. During the ceremony, 53 students were formally coated before an audience of family, friends, faculty, staff and members of the university community.
TCDM Dean Jill E. Keaton, D.M.D., M.S., DABOP, FAAOP, emphasized the responsibility represented by the white coat and the unique role the inaugural class will play in establishing the traditions and legacy of the college.
“This is a truly exciting moment for the University of Pikeville as we celebrate the inaugural class of the Tanner College of Dental Medicine at their White Coat Ceremony,” said Keaton. “The white coat carries a profound responsibility, and this inaugural class has the unique opportunity to establish traditions and a legacy that will shape the future of dental education and care in Central Appalachia.”
Keynote speaker Carol G. Tanner spoke to the significance of the occasion and the collective effort behind the establishment of TCDM. With deep ties to Eastern Kentucky, Tanner and her family have demonstrated a lasting commitment to advancing healthcare and education, including the transformational gift that helped make TCDM possible.
“This is an exciting time and an adventure for all of us as we open a new chapter in access to dental healthcare here in the heart of Eastern Kentucky and the greater Appalachian region,” said Tanner. “As one who has deep roots in these mountains, it is difficult for me to find the words to describe how much this endeavor means to me and my family. To the students in this first class, please know that you have my very best wishes as you begin this incredible journey. I know, in my heart of hearts, that you will make us proud.”