UNIVERSITY OF PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND
Atlantic Veterinary College welcomes Class of 2029 at annual Blue Coat Ceremony

The Atlantic Veterinary College (AVC) at the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) proudly welcomed 70 incoming students -- the Class of 2029 -- into its Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program during the annual AVC-Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) Blue Coat Ceremony on Friday, August 22.

Skyeler Webb, AVC Class of 2029, is presented her Blue Coat from her parents

The event, held at UPEI's Performing Arts Centre, is one of AVC's most meaningful traditions. The presentation of the blue lab coat symbolizes the beginning of each student's journey to becoming a veterinarian. During the ceremony, students were invited on stage to receive their coats from family members, friends, or mentors. They will wear the coats during labs and clinical training until graduation, when they receive their white coats as a symbol of their successful transition into the profession.

"This milestone represents more than just the start of your studies -- it is the start of a lifelong commitment to animal health, scientific discovery, and compassionate service," Dr. Dominique Griffon, dean of the AVC, said to the class. "We are honoured to accompany you through this journey and look forward to watching you grow into leaders in veterinary medicine."

The ceremony included remarks from UPEI President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Wendy Rodgers, who extended greetings on behalf of the University community. Dr. Anne Marie Carey, AVC's associate dean of academic and student affairs, announced the names of the students as they were presented with their coats. Second-year students Hannah Johnston and Rachel Ching also shared encouragement and advice with the students, as peers who had recently stood in their shoes.

"I know you're nervous and you probably have imposter syndrome right now, but you are exactly where you need to be," said Johnston. "You were selected to be here because of your hard work and dedication, and that imposter syndrome will eventually wear off."

The Class of 2029 represents a diverse and talented group of future veterinarians, with students from across Canada, the United States, and India.