Newman held its seventh annual Lab Coat Ceremony on Jan. 22, honoring junior and senior-level science students for their academic achievement.
The Lab Coat Ceremony is a mostly annual event that recognizes students majoring in biology, biomedical science, biochemistry and chemistry as they progress into advanced coursework. Each student receives a personalized lab coat, embroidered with their name and the Newman University logo.
“The coat is a gift to acknowledge the hard work, dedication and perseverance students have exemplified to pass several very challenging science classes,” said Ryan Huschka, associate professor of chemistry and the division chair of science and mathematics.
Huschka presented the names of the students for the 2026 ceremony.
“We also believe the lab coat will help motivate students to finish out their science degree on the path to becoming future leaders,” he said.
The keynote speaker of the night was delivered by Lucy Mwangi, a 2023 Newman biology graduate and current medical student at the Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine. Her speech encouraged students to reflect on their journey and the deeper meaning behind the tradition.
“This lab coat does not represent perfection or even brilliance,” she said in her speech. “It represents commitment—commitment to learning, to growth and ultimately, to using science to transform society.”
She concluded her speech with a reminder:
“Today, you don’t just receive a lab coat,” she said. “You step into the scientist you are becoming.”
2026 Lab Coat Ceremony Winners:
Newman’s School of Arts & Sciences
Programs in the School of Arts and Sciences prepare graduates for their desired careers.
