Western Atlantic University School of Medicine (WAUSM) proudly celebrated a milestone moment in the journey of its future physicians with its 8th White Coat Ceremony on September 20, 2025. This cherished tradition marks the official welcome of incoming MD students into the medical profession, as they donned their white coats for the first time – a symbol of their commitment to compassionate care, scientific excellence, and lifelong learning.
Of this diverse class hailing from 23 states across the US and The Bahamas, 46% come from groups considered underrepresented in medicine; 33 have worked as healthcare professionals before coming to WAUSM; and many have made an impact by volunteering in emergency rooms, student clinics, homeless shelters, and with Habitat For Humanity.
In his delivery of the keynote address, Dr. Achintya Moulick, Executive Chairman of Hudson Health System, told the students, “Keep your minds open. Your white coat is something that is going to open up your entire vista. You can do anything.”
This year’s ceremony also spotlighted two exceptional Bahamian students who were awarded prestigious scholarships in recognition of their academic promise and dedication to the field of medicine. Canaan Cooper was selected as the first recipient of the Dr. Pandora Johnson Memorial Scholarship, a full-tuition award covering all 10 semesters of WAUSM’s MD Program. This scholarship honors the legacy of Dr. Johnson, a founding member of WAUSM’s Board of Directors and a lifelong educator whose impact on higher education in The Bahamas spanned nearly five decades.
Joining Cooper in being recognized was Xanthe Smith, who was awarded a partial student scholarship. Over the course of her medical education at WAUSM, Smith will receive a 100% tuition scholarship for pre-clerkship semesters (2–5) and a 50% tuition scholarship for clerkship semesters (6–10) – a testament to WAUSM’s ongoing investment in nurturing local talent and supporting future healthcare leaders in The Bahamas.
Jacquie Colgan, Chair of the Bahamian Scholarship Committee, shared her thoughts on the establishment of the Dr. Pandora Johnson Memorial Scholarship: “WAUSM could not be prouder to establish this scholarship in Dr. Johnson’s honor. One of our founding board members, a woman whose passion and dedication to education at all levels was evident throughout her life’s work. Our commitment in making sure that her life’s work continues is a reflection of her dream of opening doors for Bahamian young people to fulfill their dreams. Dr. Johnson would be so proud of Canaan Cooper, the first recipient of this scholarship, as he pursues his dream of becoming a medical doctor. We look forward to presenting many more scholarships to Bahamian students in pursuit of their dreams.”
Dr. Scott Ippolito, Executive Dean and Chief Academic Officer of WAUSM, added: “Dr. Pandora Johnson’s legacy as a trailblazer in Bahamian education is deeply woven into the fabric of WAUSM. Her decades of service, from shaping the foundation of the University of The Bahamas to championing strategic educational partnerships and nurturing students, have left an indelible mark. This scholarship ensures her spirit of excellence and advocacy lives on through the students who will carry her vision forward.”
Canaan Cooper, who hails from Nassau, expressed heartfelt appreciation at being chosen as the first recipient of the Dr. Pandora Johnson Memorial Scholarship. “I couldn’t stop smiling when I found out,” he said. “I didn’t expect it, and I was just praying and thanking the Lord for the opportunity.”
After learning more about Dr. Johnson’s legacy, Cooper shared that the scholarship now represents something much deeper to him: “It’s not just an award – it’s a legacy. I’m honored to carry it forward and hope to see many more Bahamian students follow in these footsteps.”
Also from Nassau, Xanthe Smith shared that being a recipient of the Bahamian Scholarship is a life-changing opportunity that allows her to pursue medical school without the burden of tuition. She sees it as a reflection of the trust others have in her potential to become an outstanding physician.
“My journey to becoming a physician began in third grade after reading Gifted Hands by Ben Carson. But as I grew and experienced more of life, my ‘why’ evolved,” Smith explained. “My mom and sister both live with sickle cell disease and witnessing their struggles gave me insight not only into the patient experience but also how illness affects the entire family. I would like to give back to the community by being a voice for my patients.”
Dr. Paula Wales, WAUSM Provost and Chief Operating Officer, reflected on the significance of the ceremony and the scholarships:
“The White Coat Ceremony is one of the most meaningful moments in a medical student’s journey. This year, it’s made even more special by honoring two Bahamian scholars whose dreams are being made possible through the generosity and vision of our Bahamian Scholarship program. We are proud to support their path to becoming compassionate, skilled physicians.”
WAUSM also announced the appointment of two distinguished professionals to its Board of Directors: Charles W. Diggiss, MBBS, FRCS, a Bahamian general surgeon and prominent leader in the country’s healthcare system, who currently serves as president and CEO of Doctors Hospital Health System and chairman of the MedNet Group of Companies; and Willie A. M. Moss, who brings a wealth of experience in corporate, commercial, and real estate law, complemented by exceptional expertise in Grand Bahama’s industrial and commercial sectors. Their knowledge and leadership will be invaluable to WAUSM as the University continues to grow and serve the region.