The newest class of future physicians at the Miller School of Medicine slipped into their white coats for the first time at the annual John G. Clarkson Freshman White Coat and Pinning Ceremony. For several members of the 235-member class, it was more than the start of a transformative journey. It was also a chance to be welcomed into the Miller School by family members and friends who once walked the same path as aspiring physicians.

The 19 legacy students beamed with pride as their alumni relatives, all graduates of either the Miller School or University of Miami/Jackson Health System residency programs, placed lapel pins on their new white coats. The pin symbolizes the Miller School mission to serve and care for all communities.

Jose Garcia, M.D. ’87 had the honor of pinning his son, Abraham, a first-year Miller School student.

“Seeing my son grow up committed to helping others, committed to pursuing excellence all his life and also now as he enters medical school, has always been very fulfilling as a father,” said Dr. Garcia, whose eldest son, Jose Pablo Garcia, M.D., is also a physician. “Putting the pin on him is a reminder of what a great person he has been to others.”

Rebecca Kaiser is an M.D./M.P.H. candidate of the Class of 2028. She is the latest in a long line of family members to pursue a career as a physician.

“To say I’m proud of her is an understatement,” said her father, Charles J. Kaiser, M.D. ’90. “She is continuing a tradition dating back to the early 20th century when her great-grandfather, Harry Kaiser, M.D., practiced in Brooklyn. Her grandfather, Gerard Kaiser, M.D., had a long, illustrious career at UM/JMH as chief of cardiovascular surgery and deputy dean for clinical affairs. I am currently in my 30th year as an ophthalmologist, and Rebecca’s cousin, Josh Kaiser, M.D. ’23, is a resident in emergency medicine in New York City.”

The crisp, new white coats were generously provided by Miller School alumni. The Miller School Medical Alumni Association, along with other benefactors, also gifted each student with a stethoscope and UM-branded backpack.

“You are continued evidence that the University of Miami has one of the finest medical programs in the country,” said Maria Pilar Gutierrez, M.D. ’90, president of the Medical Alumni Association.

To learn more about the Medical Alumni Association, click here.