Sarah Hummelgard '08, Neil Rohe '08, Chris Tigges '08, Kyle Held ...

Sarah Hummelgard ’08, Neil Rohe ’08, Chris Tigges ’08, Kyle Held ’06, Vicki Tatro 

’06, Rhett Ruehle ’05, Jessica Johnson ’04, Sean Flynn ’04, Karla Thole ’06, Julie 

Lohr ’04, Tae Barto ’04, Jennifer Wolf ’00, Shamayne Frank ’99, Rena Kazos ’07, 

Jason Kruse’07, D.O., Megan Murphy ’07, M.D., Nicholas Bechtold ’05, D.O., Leah 

Miller ’05, M.D., Katie Olson ’05, M.D., Kelsey Nylander ’05, D.O., Rick Andersen 

’04, D.O., Kathy Dorcey LaFavor ’01, Nick Kuiper’01, D.O., Matt Weiland ’01, D.O., 

Brian Ray’01, D.O., Staci Rosche ’01, M.D., Jay Kurth ’98, D.O., Derek Dubay ’95, 

M.D., Greg Keane ’95, D.O., Chris Ewing ’94, M.D., Jenny Bertness ’92, D.O., T. J. 

Wente ’90, D.O., Bruce Reifenrath ’89, Jill Murray ’00, M.O.T., Bridget Tanton’99, 

Rhonda Sander ’98, Beth Rathe ’93, M.O.T., Karen Ostermeyer ’91, Chad Renner 

’97, O.D., Stephanie Sherwood ’06, Laura Francis ’02, Katie Fagan ’07, Josh Fuxa 

’06, Amanda Bliss ’06, Mike Mefferd ’06, Amy Linquist ’99, Brianna Kruse ’98, Jenny 

Banwart ’94, Kevin Poss ’93, Heather Scribner ’06, Michelle Sanchez ’03, Lindsey 

Thorpe ’99, Emily Dvorak ’08, Timothy Buechler ’07, Robert Greenhagen ’02, Lee 

Evans ’91, Greg McCarthy ’89, Dave Verbik ’89, Katie Fitzpatrick ’04, Dustin Staab 

’04, Lindsey Crumly ’02, Sarah Soergel ’97, Christine Bean ’96, Keith Bretey ’90, 

Sarah Hummelgard ’08, Neil Rohe ’08, Chris Tigges ’08, Kyle Held ’06, Vicki Tatro 

’06, Rhett Ruehle ’05, Jessica Johnson ’04, Sean Flynn ’04, Karla Thole ’06, Julie 

Lohr ’04, Tae Barto ’04, Jennifer Wolf ’00, Shamayne Frank ’99, Rena Kazos ’07, 

Jason Kruse’07, D.O., Megan Murphy ’07, M.D., Nicholas Bechtold ’05, D.O., Leah 

Miller ’05, M.D., Katie Olson ’05, M.D., Kelsey Nylander ’05, D.O., Rick Andersen ’04, 

D.O., Kathy Dorcey LaFavor ’01, Nick Kuiper’01, D.O., Matt Weiland ’01, D.O., Brian 

Ray’01, D.O., Staci Rosche ’01, M.D., Jay Kurth ’98, D.O., Derek Dubay ’95, M.D., 

Greg Keane ’95, D.O., Chris Ewing ’94, M.D., Jenny Bertness ’92, D.O., T. J. Wente 

’90, D.O., Bruce Reifenrath ’89, Jill Murray ’00, M.O.T., Bridget Tanton’99, Rhonda 

Sander ’98, Beth Rathe ’93, M.O.T., Karen Ostermeyer ’91, Chad Renner ’97, O.D., 

Stephanie Sherwood ’06, Laura Francis ’02, Katie Fagan ’07, Josh Fuxa ’06, Amanda 

Bliss ’06, Mike Mefferd ’06, Amy Linquist ’99, Brianna Kruse ’98, Jenny Banwart 

’94, Kevin Poss ’93, Heather Scribner ’06, Michelle Sanchez ’03, Lindsey Thorpe ’99, 

Emily Dvorak ’08, Timothy Buechler ’07, Robert Greenhagen ’02, Lee Evans ’91, 

Greg McCarthy ’89, Dave Verbik ’89, Katie Fitzpatrick ’04, Dustin Staab ’04, Lindsey 

Crumly ’02, Sarah Soergel ’97, Christine Bean ’96, Keith Bretey ’90, Sarah Hummelgard 

’08, Neil Rohe ’08, Chris Tigges ’08, Kyle Held ’06, Vicki Tatro ’06, Rhett Ruehle 

’05, Jessica Johnson ’04, Sean Flynn ’04, Karla Thole ’06, Julie Lohr ’04, Tae Barto 

’04, Jennifer Wolf ’00, Shamayne Frank ’99, Rena Kazos ’07, Jason Kruse’07, D.O., 

In this issue, meet 

alumni who are doctors 

and pre-med students, 

all of whom said their 

success began at Briar 

Cliff. These stories are 

living proof that at 

Success Begins 

in the Classroom 

’ 

09 

Megan Murphy ’07, M.D., Nicholas Bechtold ’05, D.O., Leah Miller ’05, M.D., Katie 

Olson ’05, M.D., Kelsey Nylander ’05, D.O., Rick Andersen ’04, D.O., Kathy Dorcey 

LaFavor ’01, Nick Kuiper’01, D.O., Matt Weiland ’01, D.O., Brian Ray’01, D.O., Staci 

Rosche ’01, M.D., Jay Kurth ’98, D.O., Derek Dubay ’95, M.D., Greg Keane ’95, D.O., 

Briar Cliff success 

begins in the 

classroom.

Dear Alumni and Friends of Briar Cliff University, 

President 

Our mission and our Catholic Franciscan heritage are rooted 

in providing a values-based experience that teaches personal 

integrity and social responsibility. This is why we are so 

passionate about teaching values and why we value teaching 

the way we do. 

We believe our core values make a huge difference in the 

lives of our students. We know that the Briar Cliff experience 

continues to shape their lives long after they graduate. 

This edition of the Briar Cliff Magazine features several examples 

of just how life shaping the Briar Cliff experience can be. 

You’ll meet Dr. Douglas Wheelock ’73; Dr. Jennifer (Bertness) 

Schenne ’92; Dr. Greg McCarthy ’89; and Dr. Christine (Locke) 

Bean ’96. You’ll also learn how Briar Cliff prepared them for 

their careers in medicine. 

You also will read about Maha Jarmakani, Brittany Gentzler, 

Tara Brockman, Aaron Kunz and Drew Dula – current students 

who are preparing for medical school. 

As you peruse these pages, think of the many students who 

share the legacy of Briar Cliff. Recall the nurses, doctors, 

educators, accountants, journalists, musicians, artists, priests, 

sisters, scientists and so many other graduates who live, work 

and share the core values learned at Briar Cliff. 

I invite you to tell us about your own experiences, and I hope 

you enjoy many warm memories as you read these graduate 

success stories. 

God’s blessings, 

Beverly A. Wharton 

F r o m t h e 

Although life has taken Mike McNamara, 

Jacksonville, Fla., far from his college home, 

it’s not hard for him to recognize that he 

left a bit of himself behind. “My heart has 

always been at Briar Cliff,” McNamara said. 

As part of the first official class of men at 

Briar Cliff in the fall of 1966, McNamara 

fondly remembers being welcomed with 

open arms. “The faculty members, especially 

the Sisters, were extremely understanding 

of this new intrusion onto their campus,” 

he shared with a laugh. “They were 

extremely, extremely patient and open.” 

McNamara credits Briar Cliff’s strong liberal 

arts education and Franciscan heritage for 

guiding him through personal business 

and life success. 

But he gained even more from the 

college – his wife of nearly 38 years, Carol, 

and a passion for fundraising that has 

resulted in a long, successful career. As a 

work-study student in the Alumni and 

Development Office while attending Briar 

Cliff, McNamara learned firsthand the art 

of fundraising from Sister Muriel Ford 

and Mrs. Marion Johanson. Today, he is 

in his twentieth year of working with the 

Development Department of Mayo Clinic, 

currently serving as Senior Principal Gifts 

Officer in Jacksonville, Fla. 

While the McNamara’s have always been 

dedicated to making annual gifts to their 

alma mater, they decided several years ago 

that they could make the biggest impact on 

the future of Briar Cliff with an estate gift. 

“I’m now capable of making better 

annual gifts – and I’m delighted to do that,” 

McNamara said, “but I have maintained that 

estate provision because I still feel that will 

be an even more important gift some day. 

“I’d encourage all of my classmates to think 

about what Briar Cliff gave us and how easy 

it would be to include Briar Cliff as part of 

our estates,” McNamara said. “It’s pretty 

painless and probably wouldn’t hurt any of 

our families, and yet it would be very 

helpful for future generations of students.” 

Thank you Thank you T hank you Thank you Thank you Thank yo 

Franciscan 

Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you T hank 

Heritage Society Thank Thank you Thank you T hank You you … 

Thank you Thank you Thank 

Remember Briar Cliff in Your Estate Planning you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Than 

The Franciscan Heritage Society honors all donors who you Thank Dear you Donors, T hank Benefactors you and Thank Alumni you – Thank you Thank you Than 

include Briar Cliff University in their estate plans by naming 

Thank you Thank you Thank for your you commitment Thank you to Thank continuing you our 78-year Thank you history Thank of providing 

Briar Cliff in a will and/or making the University the beneficiary 

you Thank you 

of an insurance policy or a trust. Briar Cliff honors all requests 

a quality liberal arts education in the Catholic Franciscan tradition. Whether 

Thank you Thank you T hank you Thank you Thank you Th 

for anonymity. For more information, please contact Mike 

through time, talent or treasure, your selfless giving provides life-changing 

Jorgensen at 712-279-5396 or mike.jorgensen@briarcliff.edu. you Thank experiences you to Thank hundreds you of students. Thank you We Thank are grateful you for your Thank generosity. you Thank you Than 

you Thank – The you Briar T hank Cliff you Community Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank 

1 Briar Cliff University Magazine – Spring 2009 

hank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank 

Thank you Thank you T hank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank

Why I Love Briar Cliff 

By Dr. Diane Werth 

For the last six years, I have really enjoyed my role 

as a Trustee. In addition to being on the Board, I 

attend as many campus events as possible, 

including theatre productions, musical events 

and SIFE presentations. We also have students 

come to our Board meetings. These opportunities 

to see what goes on at Briar Cliff and to interact 

with students are the most gratifying to me. 

After being so involved with 

the Briar Cliff community, 

I have a number of reasons 

why I love Briar Cliff. 

First of all, Briar Cliff students 

are the most friendly and 

delightful young people 

who always greet others on 

campus with a smile and 

a “Hello.” 

I also love Briar Cliff because 

of how connected students, 

faculty and staff are to one another. That connection 

is uncommon on many college campuses. Sustaining 

that closeness will be key to the University’s 

viability in the future. 

I love Briar Cliff’s unique location. The University’s 

scenic setting overlooking Sioux City offers a secure 

campus atmosphere. 

I love the fact that Briar Cliff is faith-based, which is 

Table of 

Contents 

Page 3-4 

Faculty Review 

Page 5 

Paging Briar Cliff 

Doctors 

u Thank Page 10you 

you Success Begins 

you in the Thank Classroom 

k you Page Thank 11 -12 

k you Around BCU 

Thank Page 13you 

ank Chargers you Thank Go to 

k you Nationals Thank 

you Page T 14 

you Class Notes 

you Thank 

Briar Cliff prepares 

students for 

successful careers 

and instills in them 

the passion and 

commitment to give 

back to society …. 

an essential factor in our longevity. I have heard 

many students of all faiths say their faith has 

deepened because of Briar Cliff’s atmosphere. 

I love Briar Cliff because of the excellent 

education it offers students. The most 

important thing the University can do is to 

ensure that students continue to receive an 

excellent education. This will prepare them 

for what’s next in their lives, 

Promoting a better understanding between China and 

the U.S. is the main goal of Fulbright Scholar Eric Juhnke, 

Ph.D., associate professor of history and department 

chairperson at Briar Cliff University. 

including graduate schools, 

medical schools and many 

lifelong careers. 

During Term III of this academic year, Dr. Juhnke has been 

teaching in China on a Fulbright Scholar Grant at Guangdong 

University of Foreign Studies (GDUFS) in Guangzhou. 

While at GDUFS, he is teaching American Culture 

and Society, a course that introduces Chinese students 

I love the fact that Briar 

Cliff has an excellent faculty 

that is committed to our 

students. Maintaining a high 

caliber of professors and 

instructors is important. 

The University’s size also is 

something that I love about 

Briar Cliff. While sustaining and increasing 

enrollment is essential, our small size is part of 

our uniqueness. 

Briar Cliff prepares students for successful 

careers and instills in them the passion and 

commitment to give back to society, the 

University and individuals in need. 

Dr. Diane Werth 

Cardiologist (retired) 

• Cardiovascular Associates in Sioux City, 

Iowa, for 20 years 

• Bachelor’s degree from the University 

of Arizona 

• Master’s degree from the University 

of Colorado 

• Medical training at Indiana University 

• Post–doctoral fellowship at the 

National Institutes of Health at 

Bethesda, Md. 

• Married; has a son, a daughter-in-law 

and a grandson 

Professor Teaches in China on Fulbright Scholar Grant 

to the United States. He also is assisting GDUFS in revising the 

course textbook. 

As a part of the Fulbright program, Dr. Juhnke is visiting and 

lecturing at other universities in China. Through these experiences, 

he hopes to learn more about Chinese culture, how it 

differs from U.S. culture and how Chinese view Americans. 

Dr. Juhnke intends to incorporate his experiences in China 

when teaching a course entitled Global Society this Fall. 

Briar Cliff University Magazine – Spring 2009 2

Faculty ReviewJeanne 


Emmons, Ph.D., professor of English, was a 

featured poet at the South Dakota Festival of Books in 

Sioux Falls, where her poem “A View From the Mountain” 

was accepted for an anthology on Mount Rushmore. 

Dr. Emmons also was a featured poet for the Artist and 

Poet Project of the Washington Pavilion in Sioux Falls, 

where her poem 

“The Poet Dreams 

of Peace” was 

displayed. She will 

be a featured poet 

for a workshop 

conducted by the 

Akron (Iowa) Public 

Library in April 

and will speak at a 

poetry workshop 

sponsored by the 

South Dakota 

Poetry Society 

in May. 

Barbara Condon, Ph.D., R.N., associate professor 

of nursing, was published in the latest issue of the 

Nursing Forum, a peer-reviewed nursing journal. In her 

article entitled “Feeling Misunderstood – A Concept 

Analysis,” Dr. Condon examines the use of feeling 

misunderstood in the disciplines of business, education, 

psychology, sociology, mass media and nursing. The 

article also includes a discussion of nursing implications of 

feeling misunderstood in healthcare. Dr. Condon recently 

participated in the Midwest Nursing Research Society’s annual 

conference in Minneapolis with a poster presentation 

entitled “The Lived Experience of Feeling Misunderstood.” 

Bill Welu, MFA, 

professor of art 

and chairperson, 

will retire at 

the end of this 

academic year. 

Since Welu came 

to Briar Cliff in 

1966, his artistic 

touch has been 

seen throughout 

the campus. 

Over the years, 

Welu has made 

many significant contributions, including creating the 

sanctuary furniture in the Chapel, the bronze reliefs in 

Meis Recital Hall and in the Newman Flanagan Center 

and the sculpture of Saint Francis. “As much as his artistic 

influence will be remembered, Bill’s kindness to the 

Briar Cliff community and his great love for the Sisters of 

Saint Francis and for the University will continue to 

inspire us,” said William Mangan, Ph.D., vice president 

for Academic Affairs. 

Linda Harrington, assistant professor of theology, 

offered a course on the social justice teachings of the 

Roman Catholic Church for the Sioux City Diocese’s diaconate 

formation program. At the Associates of the Iowa 

Cistercians at New Melleray Abbey in Dubuque, Iowa, 

Harrington presented “Theology of Commitment 

in the Context of the Lay Cistercian Movement” and 

“The Sermons of Bernard of Clairvaux on the Song of 

Songs.” She also coordinated the Third Annual Great 

Plains Undergraduate Theology Conference in March 

at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn. In addition, 

Harrington and Sister Michaela Galles, OSF, associate 

professor and chairperson of the theology department, 

presented an in-service for catechists of the Diocese of 

Worthington, Minn. 

Tricia Currans-Sheehan, 

Ph.D., professor of English 

and writing and editor of 

The Briar Cliff Review, had her 

novel The River Road – A Novel 

in Stories published. Recently, 

Dr. Currans-Sheehan won the 

Headwaters Literary Competition, 

sponsored by New Rivers 

Press, for her collection of short 

stories The Egg Lady and Other 

Neighbors. The River Road – A 

Novel in Stories is available on Amazon.com, at Barnes & 

Noble and Book People Book Sellers in Sioux City. 

Sister Grace Ann Witte, OSF, Ph.D., associate professor, 

chairperson of the Department of Sociology and 

Criminal Justice, was one of the recipients of the 2008 

War Eagle Human Rights Award. Dr. Witte played a key 

role in launching the Catholic Worker House and Clare 

Guest House and is an active member of the Siouxland 

Coalition for Peace. 

Sister Michaela Galles, OSF, associate professor 

of theology, presented “Sacred Time, Sacred Space, 

Encountering God” in the Saint Francis Center on campus. 

Sponsored by the Faculty Development Committee, 

Galles’ presentation 

incorporated the 

history of special 

times and places 

that are recognized 

as sacred. In addition, 

she discussed 

ideas on understanding 

the Godhuman 

relationship 

and focused on the 

special gifts that 

enable each person 

to encounter God.

Shauntey James, Ph.D., 

associate professor of sociology 

and criminal justice, 

presented her research 

paper entitled “The Impact 

of International Service- 

Learning on Students” at 

the International Service- 

Learning Conference at 

Utah Valley University in 

Orem, Utah. Dr. James’ 

research was based on her 

work with a service-learning 

class of U.S. and Ugandan 

university students and the course’s impact on the students. 

Barbara Redmond, assistant professor of business administration, 

was appointed to serve as the SHRM Chapter chairperson 

of college relations and the SHRM Foundation chairperson. 

Redmond is on the Board for the Siouxland Society of Human 

Resource Management (SHRM) Chapter for 2009. She received the 

2009 Woman Pursuing Truth award at the 25th Annual Women of 

Excellence recognition banquet. She was nominated by the women 

of the business administration department for her encouragement 

of men and women to consider nontraditional careers in business. 

Redmond has been an advocate for education, an innovative leader 

in the delivery of education, a role model and mentor. 

Sister Shirley Fineran, OSF, assistant professor of social work, 

presented at the Siouxland Comprehensive Strategies for Youth 

Group. Fineran’s presentation focused on mental health issues of 

children and youth. 

Sam Shanks, Ph.D., 

assistant professor of theatre 

and speech communication, 

presented a paper entitled 

“Road Trip! William Dunlap’s 

‘A Trip to Niagara’ and the 

Utility of Imaginary Pilgrimages” 

at the Annual Conference 

of the American Society 

for Theatre Research. At Briar 

Cliff, Dr. Shanks specializes 

in stage design, lighting 

design, technical theatre, 

American theatre history and 

dramatic literature. 

Will Prigge, Ph.D., assistant professor of history, was a guest 

speaker at the University of Glasgow’s symposium commemorating 

Latvia’s 19th anniversary of independence. Prigge also chaired a panel 

and presented a paper at the “Baltic States under Stalinist Rule” 

workshop held in Tartu, Estonia. 

Richard Poole, MFA, 

chairperson, professor of 

theatre and speech communications, 

was nominated by 

regional peers of the American 

College Theatre Festival for 

a National Teaching Artist 

Award in Theatre History. In 

other work, Poole was published 

in the Annals of Iowa, the 

Iowa State Historical Association’s 

scholarly journal. His play 

entitled “The Medicine Show 

of the Great Doctor Balthazar 

T. Archimedes” was presented recently by Texas A&M University. 

In March, at the Southeast Theatre Conference in Birmingham, Ala., 

Poole gave an audition workshop entitled “Dynamic Audition Pieces 

Created Through Family/Theatre History.” At the conference, he also 

delivered a paper on a brief history of the American medicine show. 

Phil Hey, MFA, professor of English, had an article published in Poem, 

Revised: 54 Poems, Revisions, Discussions (Marion Street Press). Hey’s 

article entitled “Wrestling with a Villanelle” deals with the writing of his 

poem “An Apology,” which appears in his book How It Seems to Me: New 

and Selected Poems, published in 2004 by MWPH Books. Hey also is on 

the Literature Grants Panel of the South Dakota Arts Council. 

Paul Olson, Ph.D., assistant professor of sociology, delivered a 

paper at the annual meeting of the Society for the Scientific Study of 

Religion. Dr. Olson’s research was on the use of geographic information 

system technology to research changes in the membership of religious 

congregations in Omaha, Neb., and Sioux City, Iowa. Dr. Olson also 

organized and chaired the Society’s first session on this topic. 

Kenneth Berg, Ed.D., associate professor of education, attended 

the Summit on Collaborative Efforts to Meet the Needs of All Iowa 

Learners: Dialogue Between Educator Preparation and the PK-12 

Education Community in Ames, Iowa. 

Sister Kathy Knipper, OSF, 

Ed.D., served on the State 

Department of Education 

Accreditation Team for 

Northwestern College in Orange 

City, Iowa, where the team 

evaluated Northwestern’s 

teacher preparation program. 

Dr. Knipper also was a member 

of the Excellence in Education 

Grant Review Committee for 

the Siouxland Community 

Foundation. She currently serves 

on the State Review Panel, which 

studies institutional reports, a component of the accreditation process 

for teacher preparation programs in the state of Iowa. 

VISIT 

US! 

For more news on Briar Cliff University 

faculty, visit briarcliff.edu. 


Success can be defined in many ways, and 

where success begins can be debated. 

When you turn the following pages, you’ll 

meet Dr. Doug Wheelock, Dr. Jennifer (Bertness) 

Schenne, Dr. Greg McCarthy and Dr. Christine 

(Locke) Bean – all are Briar Cliff alumni. They 

agree that their success in medicine began in the 

classrooms of Heelan Hall. 

You’ll also hear from five seniors who plan 

to go to medical school: Maha Jarmakani, 

Brittany Gentzler, Tara Brockman, Aaron Kunz and 

Drew Dula. While these students are unique and 

diverse, they share one thing in common – their 

success also began at Briar Cliff, where they 

benefitted from: 

• Valuable hands-on lab work that reinforced the 

classroom experience. 

• Top-notch professors who helped them develop 

a strong work ethic. 

• Challenging classes that prepared them for 

the rigors of medical school and fostered their 

critical thinking skills. 

• Genuine support and friendship of faculty 

and peers. 

• Meaningful internships that offered real-life 

medical experiences. 

These stories are living proof that at Briar Cliff 

success begins in the classroom. 


Paging 

Briar Cliff 

Doctors 

Why They Love Briar Cliff

Paging Dr. Wheelock ‘73 

Doctor of Dentistry 

Wheelock, Bursick & Giese Dentistry, Sioux City, Iowa 

Why do you love Briar Cliff? 

I love Briar Cliff because it has always been a part of my life, since I 

grew up in Crescent Park near campus. When I was a kid, I’d run up 

and down the steps leading to “The Cliff.” Little did I know that one 

day Briar Cliff would unlock the door to my future. 

Who was your favorite instructor? 

My favorite instructors were Ken Baldwin and Jane Hey. They inspired 

me, made me want to learn and taught me how to learn. They also 

made me love biological sciences even more. 

How does your Briar Cliff experience continue 

to influence your work today? 

My work is influenced today because my instructors expected a 

lot from me and challenged me to be my very best. In my dental 

practice, my No. 1 rule is “Do your best for each and every patient.” 

How has Briar Cliff shaped your life? 

My life was shaped by being able to complete the required courses 

for dental school in only three years at Briar Cliff and then being 

“Briar Cliff not only 

prepared me for dentistry, 

it prepared me for life, 

which has helped me to 

reach and exceed most 

of my dreams.” 

– Douglas Wheelock 

Doctor of Dentistry 

accepted right away to dental school. The nurturing environment 

and hands-on lab work also shaped my life by preparing me well for 

dental school. My dental school colleagues from bigger schools only 

observed in their labs. 

If you had your Briar Cliff experience to do over 

again, would you do it the same way? 

I would not change a thing. Briar Cliff not only prepared me for 

dentistry, it prepared me for life, which has helped me to reach and 

exceed most of my dreams. 

How have you stayed connected to Briar Cliff? 

I stay connected to Briar Cliff by attending basketball and football 

games, going to Homecoming activities, participating in the 

Presidential Leadership Council and receiving the Alumni Association 

Family Award in 1995. I also keep in touch with classmates socially 

and professionally. 


“Briar Cliff professors are 

caring individuals who 

spend the time needed 

with each student.” 

– Jennifer (Bertness) Schenne 

Doctor of Osteopathy 


Paging Dr. Schenne ‘92 

Doctor of Osteopathy 

Family Practice, Mapleton, Iowa 

and South Sioux City, Neb. 


I love the one-on-one academic and social learning 

experiences I had. Briar Cliff gave me the confidence and skills 

to pursue a career that I love. I love my memories of the many 

field trips and dinners with classmates and instructors. 


Dr. Bob Olson was my favorite instructor. He was very 

supportive and always available to answer my questions. He 

counseled me on my career decisions, and his advice paid off. 

How does your Briar Cliff experience 

continue to influence your work today? 

At Briar Cliff, I learned how to work with others. In my labs 

and classes, I acquired the values of teamwork and trust. 

Today, I continue to apply teamwork and mutual trust in 

my medical practice. 


Prior to coming to Briar Cliff, I was very uncertain as to the 

direction of my life. The people I met and the supportive 

atmosphere really helped shape my final decision to go to 

medical school. Now, I am spending my life helping others. 

If you had your Briar Cliff experience to do 

over again, would you do it the same way? 

Yes! 


I have only recently moved back to the Siouxland area. So, I 

am looking forward to getting back in touch with my classmates 

and the Briar Cliff community.

“I love the faith-based 

campus where students, 

coaches and faculty 

instilled in me the values 

of kindness, respect 

and caring.” 

– Greg McCarthy 

Doctor of Podiatry 

Paging Dr. McCarthy ‘89 

Doctor of Podiatry 

Siouxland Foot and Ankle Associates, Sioux City, Iowa 


I love Briar Cliff because of the fun I had and the friends I made while 

attending school there. I also love the fact that it is a faith-based 

environment. 


Dr. Bob Olson was my favorite instructor. He was a tough teacher 

but taught in an understandable way. He was very caring and 

committed to his students. 

How does your Briar Cliff experience continue 

to influence your work today? 

I was influenced by the faith-based campus. Briar Cliff students, 

coaches and faculty instilled in me the values of kindness, 

respect and caring, which I try to live by today. Being on the 

baseball team taught me time management. 


Briar Cliff shaped my life by giving me the confidence, knowledge, 

skills and enthusiasm to pursue a career in medicine. 

If you had your Briar Cliff experience to do over 

again, would you do it the same way? 

Yes. 


I stay connected by keeping in touch with my Briar Cliff friends, 

participating in the Alumni Association and attending athletic 

events. I also have stayed connected to the campus through my 

four nieces, nephew and two sisters who have attended Briar Cliff. 


Paging Dr. Bean ‘96 

Doctor of Veterinary Science 

Buena Vista Veterinary Clinic, Storm Lake, Iowa 


I love the personalized instruction and the scholarships that I 

received. I have great memories of Dr. Bob Olson’s cadaver class 

and the Black Hills Study Tour. 


Dr. Brian Hazlett was my favorite instructor because of his 

wonderful sense of humor. I’ll never forget his fishing pole 

pointer, which really got my attention. His teaching style 

made my education very rewarding. 

How does your Briar Cliff experience 

continue to influence your work today? 

Briar Cliff taught me that I was more than just a number and 

that I mattered. I have continued this philosophy in my medical 

practice by treating each client as an important individual. 


Briar Cliff shaped my life by providing role models for me. 

The highly personalized approach and one-on-one experiences 

with my professors are examples of how I interact with my 

clients today. 

If you had your Briar Cliff experience to do 

over again, would you do it the same way? 

I lived at home and worked at a vet clinic while I was going 

to school. If I could do it over, I would be more involved in 

campus life. 


I have stayed connected by watching my father, Larry Locke, 

graduate from Briar Cliff with a business degree. My experience 

at Briar Cliff influenced him to go back to school. I also have 

stayed connected through my sister Kelley Locke, who is a senior 

pre-veterinary student at Briar Cliff. 

“When I attended anatomy class 

in veterinary school, I was better 

equipped to work on multispecies 

cadavers, had an edge over my 

colleagues and was better prepared 

because of my Briar Cliff experience.” 

– Christine (Locke) Bean 

Doctor of Veterinary Science 

9 Briar Cliff University Magazine – Spring 2009

Success Begins in the Classroom 

[ Be inspired by Briar Cliff students who are preparing for medical school. ] 

Maha Jarmakani 

Hinton, Iowa 

What do you love about Briar Cliff? 

My success matters at Briar Cliff. The 

support of my academic advisor 

Dr. Candice Coffin, the entire science 

faculty and my classmates is great. 

How have you grown in your field 

of study since starting at BCU? 

I have grown socially, emotionally and academically through interning 

at a medical practice, working with patients who have special 

needs, researching at UCLA Medical School and participating in 

Chicago Semester. These were valuable experiences in medicine 

and patient interaction. 

Who is your favorite instructor? 

Dr. Candice Coffin and Dr. Bob Olson have helped me develop 

a stronger work ethic. Their difficult classes taught me how to 

study. Dr. Paul Weber’s teaching style has helped me prepare for 

medical school. 

Brittany Gentzler 

Pipestone, Minn. 


I love how my coaches, professors 

and others on this campus have 

challenged me to be my best. I also 

love the top-of-the-line education that 

I am receiving here. 



My confidence in my career choice and field of study has definitely 

increased. My experiences at Briar Cliff have strengthened my 

desire to be a physician. 


They all have been an integral part of my education. My instructors 

have never doubted me. 

Tara Brockman 

Denison, Iowa 


I love building great relationships with 

students and professors. I love how I can 

walk around campus and faculty know 

me by name! 



I have learned so much through hands-on lab work. Those experiences 

have prepared me for graduate school. 


I can’t say that I have one favorite professor, because all of them 

have helped me on my path to medical school. 

Aaron Kunz 

Sioux City, Iowa 

What do you love about 

Briar Cliff? 

I love the fact that the staff and faculty are 

some of the most approachable and personable 

people I have ever encountered. 

BCU students are respectful toward one 

another, and they are friendly. 

How have you grown in your field of study since 

starting at BCU? 

I have especially grown in my critical thinking skills. Biochemistry II, 

Advanced Anatomy and other science courses have challenged me to 

analyze and apply information. 


Dr. Paul Weber and Dr. Bob Olson. They are two of the most 

intelligent people I have ever met. They are excellent at explaining 

very complicated information, so students can understand it. 

Drew Dula 

Sergeant Bluff, Iowa 


You actually get to know professors, 

administrators and classmates. Everybody 

from students you’ve never had a class 

with to the president of the University 

calls you by name. 



The vast amount of knowledge that I have gained in the sciences is 

preparing me for medical school. I have grown through internships and 

volunteer work with health care professionals and in clinics. 


All of my professors care that I learn and want me to succeed. But I have 

learned the most from Dr. Paul Weber, Dr. Bob Olson and Dr. Todd 

Knealing. They are constantly willing to help me with whatever questions 

I have. I appreciate their expertise and dedication to students. 


Around BCU 


Students Go on a Mission 

Campus Ministry 

students were on 

yet another mission 

during Spring Break, 

when they mentored 

high school 

students, assisted 

senior citizens and 

tutored elementary 

school students in 

Morton, Miss., 

which is 30 miles 

east of Jackson, 

the state capitol. 

On the mission While on a mission trip to Mississippi during 

trip were Kielan Spring Break, Briar Cliff University student 

Dittmar, Gretna, John Martinez, Pueblo, Colo., tutors a student 

Neb.; Jeremy in a math class at Morton Public High School. 

Schindler, Hinton, 

Iowa; Tierra Hodges and Nancy Tatou, both of Sioux 

City; John Martinez, Pueblo, Colo.; Richard Miller II and 

Sherin Parambaloth, both of Chicago, Ill. 

“We worked one-on-one with students who are 

struggling in various academic areas,” said Sister Janet 

May, OSF, director of Campus Ministry, who led the 

students in their mission experience. “We also assisted 

at the EXCEL Learning Center, which offers after-school 

and outreach programs for those living in poverty.” The 

Sisters of Saint Francis of Dubuque, Iowa, the founding 

order of Briar Cliff, established the EXCEL Learning 

Center in Morton more than 10 years ago. 

Also as a part of their experience, students toured the 

Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tenn., where they 

learned about racism and prejudice. The experience 

was Campus Ministry’s sixth mission trip to Mississippi 

since 2004. For information about the upcoming 

mission trip to Honduras in November, contact 

janet.may@briarcliff.edu. 

SAA Hosts Hockey Night 

The Student Alumni Association (SAA) hosted “BCU 

Night With the Musketeers” in January. More than 200 

students and faculty and their families were on hand for 

the hockey match, where the Cliff Singers performed 

the National Anthem. 

Broadway Comes to Campus 

Broadway came to campus in February when the Department 

of Music presented “Broadway Cabaret” – a performance 

that celebrated the music of Irving Berlin, Frank Loesser 

and Andrew Lloyd Webber. The event featured musical 

selections from Broadway productions Opening Night, Avenue 

Q, Spamalot and love songs of Lloyd Webber and Loesser. 

The performance was an offering of Opera Workshop, 

which provides opportunities for students to prepare and 

stage standard opera and musical theatre repertoire. 

The “Broadway Cabaret” cast included BCU students Amy 

Ebsen, Aaron Kunz and Allison Staiert, all of Sioux City; Justin 

Ranek, Council Bluffs, Iowa; Christina Simons, Larchwood, 

Iowa; Erin Reynolds, Lawton, Iowa; Alex Wimmer, Mapleton, 

Iowa; Kathleen Kruckenberg, Mason City, Iowa; Seth Schmitt, 

Pocahontas, Iowa; Chris Kopel, Spencer, Iowa; Michaela Ten 

Hoven, Streamwood, Ill.; Jon Konz, Adrian, Minn.; Catie 

Kayser, Plymouth, Minn.; and Bert Bucher, Plankinton, S.D. 

Faculty and Students Show Artwork 

Among art recently exhibited in the Clausen Art 

Gallery were the works of seniors Shari Nelson, Sloan, 

Iowa; Molly Ludwig-Henningsgaard, Minnetonka, Minn.; 

and Jessica Oregon, Sioux City. The Sister Jordan Dahm, 

OSF, Endowed Exhibition in the Visual Arts featured the 

works of Bill Welu, professor of art and department chairperson; 

Nan Wilson, assistant professor of art; Judy Welu, 

professor of art, emerita; and Jeff Baldus, ’80, adjunct 

faculty. Also on display will be the Studio Group Exhibition 

beginning May 6 through the summer. 

BCU Senior Molly Ludwig-Henningsgaard of Minnetonka, Minn., 

during her art show in the Clausen Art Gallery.

Athletes Inducted to Hall of Fame 

The annual WinterFest drew a crowd of more than 300 

alumni and friends. The Athletic Hall of Fame inductions 

highlighted the weeklong event. Inducted into the Hall 

of Fame were Corey Lias, ’03, baseball; Justin Malenosky, 

’04, baseball; Wendy Hammen-Slaughter, ’98, basketball; 

Kathy Hargis, ’99, soccer; and Amado Martinez, ’91, 

basketball. Among other WinterFest activities were an 

event honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the crowning 

of Mr. and Ms. BCU, the Briar Cliff Theatre production 

“Moonlight” and a Tip Off Party for alumni and basketball 

season ticketholders. 

Pictured above are new members to BCU’s Athletic Hall of Fame, left to 

right: Wendy Hammen-Slaughter, ’98, basketball; Kathy Hargis, ’99, 

soccer; Corey Lias, ’03, baseball; Justin Malenosky, ’04, baseball; and 

Amado Martinez, ’91, basketball. 

Luncheon Generates Scholarship Funds 

More than 200 alumni, friends and fans donated nearly 

$10,000 by having “Lunch With the Chargers” in February. 

All proceeds from the event benefit the Annual Scholarship 

Fund. “Lunch With the Chargers” is an annual fundraiser, 

where student athletes, coaches and staff host and serve 

guests. This year’s event was sponsored by Sioux City’s 

Texas Roadhouse and hosted by the Briar Cliff University 

Alumni Association Board of Directors. 

Students Study in Big Bend National Park 

During Spring Break, 

environmental science 

students and professors 

transported their 

classroom to Big Bend 

National Park in West 

Texas, where they explored 

diverse vegetation and 

studied exceptional 

geology during the Desert 

Ecology Study Tour. 

“Students saw spectacular 

geological features in Big 

Bend National Park,” said 

Ted Wilson, Ph.D., assistant 

professor of biology. 

“While hiking through 

Professor Brian Hazlett, far right, leads desert ecology students 

during a study tour at Big Bend National Park in West Texas. 

Pictured from left to right are environmental science majors 

Jennie Vrbicky, Clarkson, Neb.; Craig Samek, Cooperstown, 

N.D.; Brian Souder, Rockwell City, Iowa; Derek Christoffel, 

LeMars, Iowa; and Jon Toyne, Muscatine, Iowa. 

Photo by Dr. Ted Wilson 

the 800,000-acre park, we climbed its highest elevation, Emory Peak, which is 

7,825 feet,” Dr. Wilson said. Students hiked through Boquillas Canyon, Santa 

Elena Canyon and the Chisos Mountains. They also went on excursions to Ernst 

Tinaja, Pine Canyon and Balanced Rock. 

“We saw firsthand how the vegetation gradually changes with increasing elevation 

and precipitation,” said Brian Hazlett, Ph.D., director of environmental 

science and professor of biology, who led the study tour. For information about 

upcoming environmental science tours, email brian.hazlett@briarcliff.edu. 

Choirs Perform Across Iowa 

The Cliff Singers and Chamber Choir went on the “Pride of Iowa” concert tour 

during Spring Break. The concert featured a diverse repertoire of choral literature. 

Selections ranged from well-known works from the Western historic tradition to 

choral arrangements of lesser-known ethnic and world music. The choirs kicked 

off their “Pride of Iowa” tour with a free concert at Briar Cliff, followed by performances 

in Dubuque, Mason City, Fort Dodge, Algona and Spencer. 


Chargers Chargers Go to Nationals Nationals 


By Jared Bodammer, assistant athletic director 

The Chargers opened their campaign in November with an exhibition game against the Fighting Irish 

of Notre Dame in South Bend, Ind. The team closed the season by advancing to the NAIA Division 

II Men’s Basketball National Championship for the first time since 2002. A rough second half in the 

first round resulted in a 76-59 loss to Indiana Southeast. 

This year’s squad led the conference with a school record of 274 three-pointers and was one of the 

top scoring and shooting teams in the Great Plains Athletic Conference (GPAC). 

“I am pleased how this team came together,” said Coach Todd Barry. “They are committed to the 

program and to each other.” 

Looking back on the season, sophomore Kyle Semprini, Carroll, Iowa, said that amazing teamwork 

and cohesiveness contributed to the team’s success. “We all understood our roles, and no one’s role 

was more important than the others. We were in it together whether we won or lost.” 

Barry Tabbed GPAC 

Coach of the Year 

Barry Tabbed GPAC 

Coach of the Year 

By Jared Bodammer, assistant athletic director 

Todd Barry, Charger men’s basketball coach, was 

named Coach of the Year by the Great Plains Athletic 

Conference (GPAC) Hauff Mid-America Sports. During 

the 2008-09 season, Coach Barry led the Chargers to 

a 23-8 record, a season-long NAIA national ranking 

and a spot in the NAIA Division II Men’s Basketball 

National Championship. Now in his fifth season as 

head coach, he holds an impressive list of previous 

coaching honors, including NIAC Coach of the Year, 

NAIA District 15 Coach of the Year, Siouxland Coach 

of the Year and Iowa Small College Coach of the Year, among others.

A Snapshot of 

Class Notes 

Births 

Lila Jude, Nov. 10, 2008, to 

Leah (Frommelt) ’89 and 

Scott Ward 

Ashton Elizabeth, Jan. 9, 2009, 

to Lexa and Jake Hawkins ’02 

In Memory 

Charlie Boyle, Nov. 23, 2008, 

father of Betty Farmer and 

Deidre Engel ’00 

Laurine (Morse) Tritz ’51, 

Dec. 8, 2008, mother of 

Theresa (Tritz) Kimbell ’72 

and John Tritz ’86 

Do Yanney, Dec. 12, 2008, 

mother of Charese Yanney, 

wife of James Yanney, friends 

of Briar Cliff University 

Lorelei Youtzy, Dec. 25, 2008, 

wife of Harold Youtzy, former 

Briar Cliff employee 

Glenda Castleberry ’84, 

Jan. 5, 2009, former Trustee 

and longtime friend of Briar Cliff 

University 

Margaret (Fitzpatrick) Vogel ’54, 

Jan. 30, 2009 

Upcoming Events 

April 23 - April 26, 2009 

Briar Cliff Theatre Production 

“Mother Courage and Her Children” 

April 25, 2009 

Women’s Golf Team/Alumni 

Spring Outing 

BCU Softball vs. William Woods 

BCU Baseball vs. Morningside 

April 26, 2009 

“Dinner With 12 Strangers” 

April 27, 2009 

Speaker Melissa Ohden 

April 30, 2009 

Honors Convocation 

Mary Helen (Swanson) 

McElroy ’51, February 12, 2009 

mother of Eileen (McElroy) 

Friedman ’80, Terence 

McElroy ’83, Maureen 

(McElroy) Van Meter ’84, 

Ann McElroy ’87, John 

McElroy ’88, Pat McElroy ’89 

and Kathleen (McElroy) 

Demers ’92 

1960’s 

Mary (Sieve) Scheidt ’68 

Mary is a full-time teacher and 

media director at the Adrian High 

School and Middle School in 

Minnesota. Mary and her husband, 

Rod, live in Adrian on a farm, 

which he operates with help from 

their son Casey. They have five 

children and nine grandchildren. 

1980’s 

Joan (Augustine) ’86 and 

Michael Ascherl ’87 

Joan holds a master’s degree in 

education. She is teaching vocal 

music at Phillips Middle School in 

Fort Dodge, Iowa. Michael is vice 

president of business development 

at Team Services. 

May 1, 2009 

Student Recital 

May 6-Aug. 1, 2009 

Studio Group Art Exhibit 

May 8, 2009 

Baccalaureate 

May 9, 2009 

Commencement 

June 6-7, 2009 

New Student Orientation 

June 13, 2009 

Denver Alumni Gathering 

June 18, 2009 

Sioux City Alumni Gathering 

Marcelino Garcia ’88 

Marcelino owns a professional basketball 

team in the Puerto Rican League. 

1990’s 

Sandra (Goettemoeller) Moeller ’90 

On Oct. 6, 2008, Sandra and her 

husband, Dale, welcomed Charles 

Monte to their family. He joins big 

brother, Thobe, 4. Sandra manages 

the home, while Dale works at a steel 

reclamation business. They love living 

in Sandra’s hometown of Denton in 

central Montana and working on their 

family ranch. 

James Vint ’96 

After teaching and coaching at the 

high school and college levels for 10 

years, James is a financial advisor with 

Smith Barney in Lubbock, Texas. 

2000’s 

Norma Azpeitia ’03 

Norma is a bilingual enrollment 

management advisor in the 

admissions office at Northwest Iowa 

Community College in Sheldon. She 

works with minority students and 

first-generation students. Previously, 

Norma was a bilingual reporter for 

The Sioux City Journal. 

June 26, 2009 

Omaha Alumni Gathering 

July 10-11, 2009 


July 2009 

Des Moines Alumni Gathering 

September 14-19, 2009 

Homecoming 

August 14-15, 2009 


VISIT 

US! 

For details, visit 

briarcliff.edu. 

Briar Cliff University Magazine staff: Paula Damon, Jodi Gray, Kari Nelson, Sharisue Wilcoxon. Contributors: Jared Bodammer, Nicholas Damon, Marena Fritzler, Lexa Hawkins, 

Mike Jorgensen, Jeff LaFavor, Amy Meister. The Briar Cliff University Magazine is an official publication of Briar Cliff University, Sioux City, Iowa. Briar Cliff University Magazine is 

published three times a year by the Briar Cliff University Office of Institutional Advancement and is mailed free of charge to alumni and friends of Briar Cliff University. Copyright 

© 2009 by Briar Cliff University. Briar Cliff University will not discriminate for any reason prohibited by law and expressly prohibits any form of unlawful harassment. 

Matt Gaul ’08 

Matt began his tenure as a 

transfer admissions counselor 

in Briar Cliff’s Department of 

Admissions in November. In March, 

he assumed the position of admissions 

counselor, responsible for 

Nebraska, Kansas and Missouri. Matt 

holds a bachelor’s degree in human 

resource management. 

Brandon Osborn ’08 

In September, Brandon joined Briar 

Cliff’s Department of Admissions as 

an admissions counselor, responsible 

for Iowa (north of Highway 20) and 

South Dakota. Brandon has a bachelor’s 

degree in mass communication. 

VISIT 

US! 

Read more Class Notes 

at briarcliff.edu. 

Jubilarians 2009 

Mount Saint Francis 

Double Diamond Jubilarians 

70 years from Reception into the 

Congregation, 1939-2009 

• Sister Monica Mary Gacke, OSF 

• Sister Aimee Marie Spahn, OSF ’56 

• Sister Innocence Tsung, OSF 

Diamond Jubilarians 



• Sister Burnita Kaschmitter, OSF ’49 

• Sister Joan Losey, OSF 

• Sister Nora Rochford, OSF ’68 

• Sister Agnetis Soppe, OSF 

• Sister Amelia Thole, OSF ’61 

Golden Jubilarians 



• Sister Liz Cummins, OSF ’64 

• Sister Camilla Hemann, OSF 

• Sister Maxine Lavell, OSF ’69 

• Sister Janet Osterhoff, OSF ’66 

• Sister Colane Recker, OSF ’65 

• Sister Marlene Schueller, OSF ’67 

• Sister Marge Staudt, OSF ‘69 

• Sister Anthony Wagner, OSF 


3303 Rebecca Street • Box 2100 

Sioux City, Iowa 51104-0100 

tel 712.279.5200 or 800.662.3303, ext. 5200 

web briarcliff.edu 

homeComing 

SePtemBer 14-19, 2009 

Briar Cliff UniverSity 

Save the 

Date 

Retrace your steps. 

Reconnect with your friends. 

Relive your Briar Cliff experiences. 

non-profit org. 

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BCU homeComing 

SePtemBer 17 - 19, 2009 

paid 

permit no. 722 

sioux city, ia

Sarah Hummelgard '08, Neil Rohe '08, Chris Tigges '08, Kyle Held ...

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