Embarking on the Clinical Journey
On Sunday, August 16, 2026, New England College of Optometry celebrated one of its most meaningful traditions: the White Coat Ceremony. Held at Boston University’s George Sherman Union, the ceremony marked an important milestone for the Class of 2029 as students received their white coats and prepared to take the next step in their journey from classroom learning to clinical care.
The White Coat Ceremony is more than a celebration. It represents each student’s commitment to the compassion, integrity, and service at the heart of the healthcare profession. Surrounded by family members, friends, faculty, and classmates, students put on their white coats for the first time—an outward symbol of their promise to care for patients with skill, empathy, and respect. Throughout the room, there was a shared sense of pride, excitement, and purpose.
NECO President and CEO Dr. Howard Purcell encouraged students to carry those values with them throughout their careers.
“Wear your white coat with pride and compassion,” he told the students. “Never lose sight of what you do and why you do it. Remember the great Martin Luther King, Jr., who said that ‘intelligence plus character—that’s the goal of true education.’”
Helping students into their white coats were two NECO alumni and faculty members who understand the journey well: Dr. Jennifer Reilly, OD ’15, Associate Professor of Optometry, and Dr. George Asimellis, Professor of Vision Sciences.
Dr. Reilly acknowledged that the road ahead will not always be easy, but reminded students that challenges are an essential part of becoming skilled and compassionate healthcare professionals.
“Smooth seas never made skilled sailors,” she reminded them. “Comfort is the enemy of competence. But every challenge you face will help you become a better doctor—and a better human being.”
Dr. Timothy Bossie, Senior Director of Owned Clinics & Outreach Affiliations, and Dr. Amy Moy, Senior Director of Health Care Initiatives & Optometric Compliance, reflected on the important role optometrists play in supporting both the physical and emotional well-being of their patients.
“You’re now part of something bigger,” said Dr. Bossie. “Your care impacts your patients’ lives in ways you may never fully see.” He also echoed Dr. Young’s advice about the importance of building trust: “Start where they are and find common ground. It’s great advice.”
Dr. Moy encouraged students to remain curious and committed to learning throughout their careers.
“After graduation, it’s tempting to think you know it all,” she said with a smile. “But staying curious, revisiting your notes, and keeping up with changes in the field—that’s how you keep growing.”
Dr. Erik Weissberg, Vice President and Dean of Academic Affairs, officially presented the members of the Class of 2029, along with students from NECO’s Advanced Standing International Program (ASIP) and Accelerated Optometric Degree Program (AODP). Drs. Reilly and Asimellis then helped each student into their white coat, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
To NECO’s newest students entering the profession: Welcome! The path ahead will challenge you, inspire you, and help shape the healthcare professionals you will become. As you move forward, you carry the support of the NECO community and the trust of the patients you will one day serve.
Your journey is just beginning, and we look forward to seeing the difference you will make in eye care—and in the lives of your patients.