ABOUT THE TEMPLE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Listed on Philadelphia’s register of historic structures, the Temple Performing Arts Center was built in 1891 for the congregation of Pastor Russell Conwell, founder of Temple University. On its lower level is the Chapel of the Four Chaplains, a multi-denominational chapel honoring four Army chaplains of different faiths who gave up their life preservers to save their shipmates on the sinking USAT Dorchester after it was torpedoed off the coast of Greenland during WWII. Over the years, the building has hosted hundreds of university events and visiting dignitaries, including Reverend Martin Luther King Jr., Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Margaret Mead. Today it hosts university events, performances, ceremonies, and celebrations.

An Oath Based Upon The Declaration Of Geneva

I SOLEMNLY PLEDGE to dedicate my life to the service of humanity; THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING of my patient will be my first consideration; I WILL RESPECT the autonomy and dignity of my patient; I WILL MAINTAIN the utmost respect for human life;

I WILL NOT PERMIT consideration of age, disease or disability, creed, ethnic origin, gender, nationality, political affiliation, race, sexual orientation, social standing, or any other factor to intervene between my duty and my patient; I WILL RESPECT the secrets that are confided in me, even after the patient has died;

I WILL PRACTICE my profession with conscience and dignity and in accordance with good medical practice; I WILL FOSTER the honor and noble traditions of the medical profession; I WILL GIVE to my teachers, colleagues, and students the respect and gratitude that is their due;

I WILL SHARE my medical knowledge for the benefit of the patient and the advancement of health care; I WILL ATTEND to my own health, well-being, and abilities in order to provide care of the highest standard; I WILL NOT USE my medical knowledge to violate human rights and civil liberties, even under threat;

I MAKE THESE PROMISES solemnly, freely, and upon my honor.

A Brief History Of The White Coat

Early in the history of medicine, when hospitals were places for “incurables,” clerics wore black robes, the color associated with mourning and death. In the late 19th century, when aseptic techniques were introduced and medicine began to gain ground, physicians began wearing the white protective overcoats worn by laboratory workers. Before long, the garb caught on and became the universal uniform of the physician. In addition to connoting a sense of cleanliness, the coat symbolizes professional and personal integrity.

Acknowledgements

The gifts provided to each student in the Class of 2027 were made possible by the donations of alumni, faculty, staff, supporters, and friends of the Lewis Katz School of Medicine —- with special thanks to E. Ronald Salvitti, MD ’63.

LEWIS KATZ, OUR NAMESAKE

He was raised by a single mother who believed in him. He earned a scholarship to attend Temple University. He achieved great success in business —- and as a philanthropist. His whole life was about giving. To learn more about Lewis Katz, scan the QR code at right to watch the rousing address he gave at Temple University Commencement in 2014.

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