Dr. Douglas Wheelock named 2018 Distinguished Alumni

May 9, 2018

Dr. Douglas Wheelock, DDS, was recognized as the 2018 Distinguished Alumni Award winner at this year's Toast to the Tassel, an annual celebration of the current graduating class.

Dr. Wheelock graduated from Briar Cliff College in May of 1973. He was the first Briar Cliff student to attend dental school. He graduated in 1976 from the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and returned to Sioux City to open his own practice in 1977. According to his wife, Marilyn, Doug has always attributed his success in dental school to his educational experience at The Cliff, an experience characterized by hands-on, experiential learning. And if you ask him, Doug will also say that the best opportunity Briar Cliff offered him was the chance to meet Marilyn, now his wife of nearly 45 years.

In addition to practicing dentistry in Siouxland for over 40 years and becoming a husband, father, and grandfather, Dr. Wheelock has also been an outstanding member of the Sioux City community, spending countless hours volunteering for organizations like the Boy Scouts and his church, and even donating his dental services to those in need in our community. Dr. Wheelock truly embodies Briar Cliff's Franciscan values and BCU is proud to honor him as this year’s Distinguished Alumni.