On 10/24/2025, Tanner Lewis, a Blue Lake Rancheria Tribal Member, made a great achievement in his educational career. Tanner has been studying Optometry at the College of Optometric Medicine at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in Provo, Utah, and on 10/24, he joined his class in their white coat ceremony. In medical schools, the white coat ceremony is traditionally celebrated when a class of students make the transition from the study of preclinical to clinical health sciences. It is a significant ritual that marks the transition of students into the healthcare profession, symbolizing professionalism and commitment to ethical and compassionate patient care. The white coat serves as a powerful symbol of the responsibilities and ethical standards expected of healthcare professionals. Now that Tanner has accepted his white coat, he will be able to put the things he’s learned into practice on his educational journey. Congratulations, Tanner!
“Congratulations to my amazing nephew, Tanner Lewis! I knew you could do it and I am so proud of you! The sky is the limit! Keep learning!” – Michele Kindred, Blue Lake Rancheria Tribal Member
“I couldn’t be prouder of my son, Tanner Lewis, who has officially accepted his White Coat from the College of Optometric Medicine at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in Provo, Utah. This distinguished program—the first of its kind in Utah and the Intermountain West—offers a four-year Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree.
Tanner first earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in June 2021, where his academic commitment and compassion for others began shaping his path toward a career in medicine.
From the heart of Blue Lake to the halls of medicine, his journey brings new meaning to seeing things through.
We can’t wait to see the ways Tanner will give back and contribute to the broader Humboldt community in the years ahead. His vision—both literal and figurative—promises a bright future for those he’ll serve.” – Mandi Kindred, Blue Lake Rancheria Tribal Member
Originally Published: 11/10/2025