Cliff Stories List

Theresa Engle

Theresa Engle has worked for 16 years at Briar Cliff, and has served as the Education Department chairwoman for the last eight years.

2023 GOLD Alumni Award recipient: Matthew O’Kane

Briar Cliff University announced the recipient of the GOLD Alumni Award was established to recognize and honor a Briar Cliff University graduate of the last decade who has demonstrated a continued commitment to living a life reflective of Briar Cliff’s mission and values. The 2023 GOLD Alumni Award recipient is Matthew O’Kane.

The Spirt of St. Francis Award: Deidre Engel

The Spirit of St. Francis Award is an award honoring individuals who exemplify the Franciscan spirit of service and concern for others through contributions to society and a value-centered professional and/or family life. The 2023 recipient of the Spirit of St. Francis Award is Deidre Engel, Registrar at Briar Cliff University.

The 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award: Dr. Kendra Homan

Briar Cliff University announces the recipient of its distinguished alumni award. The Distinguished Alumni Award is given to an individual that obtained a degree from Briar Cliff, lives a life reflective of Catholic Franciscan ideals, excels in professional activities, and demonstrates personal commitment to Briar Cliff.

The Presidential Distinguished Leadership Award: Dr. Patricia Currans-Sheehan

The 2023 recipient of the Presidential Distinguished Leadership Award is Dr. Patricia (Tricia) Currans-Sheehan, professor of English and writing and editor of The Briar Cliff Review at Briar Cliff University.

Briar Cliff University Recognizes Most Reverend R. Bishop Walker Nickless at Commencement

The Briar Cliff University Medal is an award given to recognize human service by persons who have made great contributions to Briar Cliff or individuals whose contributions to education, religion, or government have been significant.

Commencement Speech: Miranda Valdovinos

Miranda Valdovinos, a History major, from South Sioux City, Nebraska.

Commencement Speech: Kennedy Andersen

Kennedy Andersen, a Nursing major, from Panora, Iowa.

Julia Black

Through volunteer and shadow experiences in physical therapy, she learned the importance of skilled and respectful communication in providing high-quality, patient-centered care and felt a personal calling to help underserved populations.

Caitlin Grogan

Caitlin Grogan (’23) knew she wanted to further her education after going to Iowa Central for her associate’s degree. After long discussions with a social work faculty member, Caitlin felt confident in her choice to attend Briar Cliff’s online social work program.

Taylor Lamprecht

Taylor Lamprecht ('23) has made the most of her experiences at Briar Cliff, both inside and outside of the classroom, which has led to excellent preparation for a future career in a science-related field.

Kaegan Held

Kaegan Held (’23) has found various successes in the biology department at Briar Cliff University and encourages others to never doubt their own ability.

Lila Frommelt: Legacy of Character

To Celebrate 50 years of Title IX, each Wednesday through December 7th, Briar Cliff will be releasing stories highlighting amazing women from Briar Cliff! Lila Frommelt is known at Briar Cliff as the women who pushed the women's gold team to national prominence. However, without her women's collegiate golf would not be where it is today.

Marian Pesky: Fighting for Women's Equality in Sports

To Celebrate 50 years of Title IX, each Wednesday through December 7th, Briar Cliff will be releasing stories highlighting amazing women from Briar Cliff! When Marian Pesky first stepped onto Briar Cliff's campus, there were no women's sports. Pesky took the steps to allow women the chance to compete at a high level.

Mary Schrad: Fighting Through Adversity

To Celebrate 50 years of Title IX, each Wednesday through December 7th, Briar Cliff will be releasing stories highlighting amazing women from Briar Cliff! At a young age, Mary Schrad used the game of basketball to escape everyday life in the small town of Carroll, Iowa. Now, she uses her experiences from the same game to make a difference in other young girls' lives.

Lizbeth Ramirez-Garcia

The first piece of advice that I would give is to embrace change and enjoy every opportunity to travel, meet people, and try new experiences. Time flies, and this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll never forget.

Rose Mary Rizk DeGrasse

Briar Cliff University alumna Rose Mary Rizk DeGrasse will celebrate her 110th birthday on October 4, 2022. She will be one of just 70 supercentenarians in the United States. A “Supercentenarian” is considered a person who has reached or exceeded 110 years of age. Researchers have suggested there are less than 450 supercentenarians in the world.

On Common Ground

“On Common Ground” was established to promote the stewardship of Iowa’s Loess Hills by fostering greater awareness of and appreciation for this exceptional natural landscape through print and digital media.

Dr. Cortni Krusemark

Doctor Cortni Krusmark explains more about our occupational therapy program at BCU and what students can expect.

Dr. Patrick Cross

Introducing the DPT Program Director, Patrick Cross, PT, DPT, RHF.

Dr. Michael Harman

My favorite part by far is the community aspect with faculty members, students, and staff. I have really been embraced with open arms into the Briar Cliff community.

Ashley Yeske

After finding she was being called to the social work profession, Ashley Yeske (’21) says Briar Cliff found her. The compassion and support Ashley received from the Briar Cliff community gave her the motivation to graduate with her social work degree.

Jake Rosenmeyer

Jake Rosenmeyer ('15) chose Briar Cliff University after falling in love with the campus, people, and spirit that permeated the Cliff. It was small and just far enough away from home that he knew he wouldn't be just another number.

Kayla Randall

Kayla Randall (’23) knew she wanted to complete her degree after going to WITCC for her associate’s degree. After hearing about the renowned education program at Briar Cliff, Kayla knew she wanted to be a Charger and follow in her mom's footsteps.

Chase Hernandez

Briar Cliff offered Chase Hernandez (’16) the opportunity to succeed in academic excellence as well as his athletic career.

Breanna Allen

Following in her mom and aunts' footsteps by coming to Briar Cliff, Breanna Allen (’23) graduated with a degree of Exercise Physiology that prepared her for the Doctor of Physical Therapy program. She credits her work ethic to her time as a student athlete and other campus involvement opportunities.

Anna Sorenson

Anna Sorenson (’22) looked to transfer to Briar Cliff after learning about how much her friend and fellow women’s basketball teammate loved BCU. After visiting campus and meeting Dr. Jung, she was convinced Briar Cliff was where she wanted to be.

Mya Hendry

Mya Hendry is a Biochemistry major with a minor in Psychology. While at BCU, Mya has been an active part of the Briar Cliff Student Government as well as participating in the Women's Basketball program. She has also been a part of the Navigate pilot program which helps students to reflect on some of life’s biggest questions.

MJ Montgomery

During his time at BCU, MJ has been a member of the football team and participated in the Navigate pilot program. Navigate is a small group program that helps students to reflect on some of life’s biggest questions.

Matthew Griesel

Matthew Griesel is a Biology and Theology major from Sioux City. During his time at the Cliff, Matthew participated in Navigate pilot program. Navigate is a small group program that helps students to reflect on some of life’s biggest questions.

Megan Loutsch

Navigate was a program that helped me learn so much about myself and where I want to go in college, with my career, and in my life. Through this program, I was able to uncover so many hidden things about myself, and with the help of mentors, make sense of those uncovered thoughts and ideas.

Berenice Topete-Andrade

When searching for colleges, Berenice Topete-Andrade wanted to come to Briar Cliff for the acclaimed nursing program but her financial situation at the time didn’t allow for it. So when she was offered a scholarship to Briar Cliff, she couldn’t refuse.

Faith Harvey

In her second year at Briar Cliff, Faith Harvey (’21) was awarded second place at the Excellence Event for her team’s research on the prairie turnip. Through long hours and figuring out how to say big words in a way other people will understand, she says she made some of her best friends.

Sophie Kramper

Sophie Kramper will graduate with her bachelor's in Exercise Physiology. When she graduates next May, Sophie will be looking to continue her educations by applying for Physical Therapy school.

Quinten Vasa

Quinten Vasa is a Biochemistry Major with a Minor in Psychology. After he graduates, he is planning to apply and attend medical school.

Briar Cliff University Recognizes State Representative Jacob Bossman as Contributor of the Year

Briar Cliff University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy Program recognizes one individual, outside of the Program’s core faculty and staff, who has had a profound impact on the program. The university recognized State Representative of District 6, Jacob Bossman, as Contributor of the Year for 2021.

Grace Bybee

Grace Bybee was in between college choices when she received the presidential scholarship, but after coming to visit the campus a second time and meeting with professors, her decision was made.

Tiffany Braun

Since she was young, Tiffany Braun always wanted to do more to help people. In high school, started working as a certified nurse’s aide (CNA). Going into college, she chose a career in STEM to allow her to help others while continuing to learn about the world around her. Now that she’s graduated, she plans on continuing her education by attending medical school.

Annie Betz

Attracted to the nursing field's blend of medicine and the one-on-one interaction with patients and families. Annie graduated with a degree in Nursing, a minor in Psychology.

Matthew Wilke

Matthew Wilke can’t wait to begin his career as Mr. Wilke, science teacher and wrestling coach. Secondary Education and Biology double major, Matt came to Briar Cliff because of its education program and all it had to offer for his future.

Shane Ladage

Head Football Coach, Shane LaDage, dedicated to recruiting hard-working, talented, young men who can help be a part of our team.

Michael Anthony

Michael (Mike) Anthony was the first student at BCU to complete the Homeland Security Emphasis in the criminal justice program, an emphasis which features classes in homeland security, terrorism and emergency management.

Samantha Krekel

Criminal Justice and Psychology major Samantha Krekel was the first woman and third student to complete the Homeland Security Emphasis.

Jakie Ramos

Jakie Ramos ('22) was awarded Briar Cliff History Department's yearly Internship in Museum Studies opportunity, a paid internship with the Sioux City Public Museum funded through the Blair Chicoine Memorial Fund.

Max Pizzaro

Max Pizarro's ('17) re-discovered talent and passion for translating. He along with 19 other BCU students and staff spent their J-Term preparing a retreat center for workers in Gracias, Lempira, Honduras.

Grace Hanno

Grace Hanno graduated in 2021 with a bachelor's in Science in Nursing. In the summer of 2019, Grace went to Tanzania for a service-learning trip.

Chris Vos

Witnessing the Sisters of St. Francis in action throughout his time at Briar Cliff was awe-inspiring for Chris Vos ('91). He often reflects on the impact they've made on his life as well as his passion for educating.

Sisters of St. Francis

Learn more about the Mother Dominica Society, St. Clare Legacy Society, and the tradition of generosity found in Sisters for St. Francis that has continued to be an agent for change at Briar Cliff University.

Mikey Brauer

Mikey Brauer ('09) witnessed the impact of Catholic Education through the students and faculty who live out their faith at the Cliff and beyond.

Kathy and Elise Berg

Growing up watching her mom Kathy (Liske) Berg ('88) teach with such passion and energy, Elise Berg ('19) knew she wanted to become a Catholic School teacher just like her.

Alicia Perez

First generation college student, Alicia Perez, says Briar Cliff University prepared her well for her nursing career.

Megan O'Gara

Biology major Megan O'Gara reflects on the lessons and skills she's learned during her time as a student planning to pursue the medical field.

Nicholas Hegge

Nicholas Hegge, an alumnus of Briar Cliff University, has been awarded a 2020 James Madison Fellowship by the James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation of Alexandria, VA.

Olga Guevara

As a full-time mom and a full-time student, Olga Guevara knows how to maintain a balance between her personal and professional lives. This skill will definitely come in handy in her future career as a social worker.

Emily Janda

Emily Janda learned about the power of service and activism during her time at Briar Cliff, and she has put these lessons into action today as a member of the Mercy Volunteer Corps in San Francisco, CA.

Tania Caudillo

Going to college is a big deal for any student. It's an especially big deal when you are the first in your family to do so.

Tony Kollasch

Tony comes from the small town of Whittemore, IA, where he graduated from Bishop Garrigan High School before deciding to pursue a biology and kinesiology and human performance degree at Briar Cliff.

Megan Gosz-Sequeiros

Ready to spread her wings, Las Vegas native Megan Gosz-Siqueiros chose Briar Cliff to grow as an athlete, student, and person.

Emery Sandoval

Aspiring athletic trainer Emery Sandoval chose Briar Cliff for its beautiful small campus and its community atmosphere.

Annie Schaffer

When it was time for me to choose a school, I had no idea what I wanted to study. I have always been creative and artistic, so my mom helped me decide on graphic design and marketing.

Kendra Kersting

Kendra Kersting, an environmental science and history major from Winona, MN, found a supportive community at The Cliff where she could explore her passion for the environment and her faith.

Melanie Krieps Mergen

Melanie Krieps Mergen ('17) credits the English and Modern Languages "dream team" as mentors who inspired and challenged her to grow as a person and a writer. After graduating, Melanie went on to Columbia University to obtain her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing.

Reynaldy Janvier

First-generation college student Reynaldy Janvier ('18) knew that education was the key to a successful future. With the support of his family and the Briar Cliff community, he'll graduate this May and take the next step to fulfilling his dream making a difference in the community by becoming a police officer.

Kevin McCormick

The Franciscan values embraced by Briar Cliff rang true for Kevin McCormick, who has made a career out of helping people. He's an officer in the Sioux City Police Department.

Rachel DeMoss

The sense of community at BCU drew Rachel DeMoss ('20) to The Cliff. "The small campus really allows you to get to know people even if they aren't in your classes," she says.

Shannon Van Beest

She majored in both Psychology and Art with a minor in art history. It has always been a dream of hers to live in Chicago. Briar Cliff has helped her in the classroom by making her realize her passion for writing, as well as learning outside the classroom skills like tenacity, empathy, and independence.

Angelica Mercado

I love art! I do all sorts of media but focus most on sculpture. I came to Briar Cliff double majoring in political science, but I changed to art and writing.

Alyssa Keller

She produces multi-media artwork in order to fulfill her inner desire, or even 'need' to create. She strives to continue broadening her worldview so that her art may use what the earth has to offer as a means to reach for the infinite.

Ron Watson

As the first member of his family to attend college, Ron relied heavily on his wrestling coaches to help him complete the necessary paperwork to attend BCU. His motto is, "Don't give up, keep your head high and take it one day at a time." The thought of receiving his college degree pushed him to battle through the uncertainties.

Erik Ingenluijff

Active on the golf team and Briar Cliff's award-winning Enactus team, Erik knew Briar Cliff was the place for him before he even came to campus. "Briar Cliff definitely stood out to me from other schools because of the community and coaching staff," he recalls.

Dominic Schweder

Dominic started as a business major but found out that he loved fixing accounting problems. Who knew? Briar Cliff helped him to switch to an accounting major, who plans to get his CPA and work at an accounting firm.

Dom Wetzbarger

Briar Cliff prepared me well, especially for the CPA exam you need to become a certified accountant. Now, I'm working in Omaha, Neb., at Deloitte a national accounting firm.

Joe Privitere

Head Wrestling Coach, Joe Privitere, is looking for hard-working young men to grow and build his program.

Erin Bly

Head Softball Coach, Erin Bly, wants to bring new recruits into our "culture of excellence."

Scott Barnes

Head Track & Field / Cross Country Coach, Scott Barnes, is looking for people who work hard and want to be a part of something great.

Mark Svagera

Head Men's Basketball Coach, Mark Svagera, has kept the storied history and tradition in their program at BCU.

Lindsey Weatherford

Head Women's Volleyball Coach, Lindsey Weatherford, wants to bring in some new Chargers to The Cliff.

Corby McLaughlin

Head Baseball Coach, Corby McGlauflin, is looking for highly talented and motivated players to add to his team.

Brita Hand

Head Women's Basketball Coach, Brita Hand, wants athletic and talented students to represent her team.

Brian Cook

Director of Choral Activities, Brian Cook, gives you a historical and informational look into the musical aspects of BCU.

Ben Irlbeck

Head Golf Coach, Ben Irlbeck, is excited to bring in and recruit new Chargers.

Arianna Presilla (Spanish)

Arianna Presilla appreciates the connections she is able to make with her professors as well as their assistance with job and scholarship opportunities.

Patricia Martinez (Spanish)

Student-athlete, Patricia Martinez, enjoys the benefits of being a part of the tight-knit community at The Cliff.

Eduardo Valencia (Spanish)

Starting off as an undecided major, Eduardo Valencia was able to find his passion through BCU?s liberal arts education.

Maria Slaughter

Director of Strategic Initiatives

Matt Thomsen

Vice President of Enrollment

Casey Zoss

Casey Zoss on the science programs' cadaver lab and the many campus resources Briar Cliff has to offer.

Dr. Daniel Jung

Briar Cliff's tight-knit community allows professors, like Dr. Daniel Jung, to work closely with his students and help them gain mastery of their skills.

Maelyn Hernandez

After taking many classes in the medical field while in the Army, Maelyn Hernandez continued her nursing degree at BCU.

Dr. Paul Weber

During his 38 years working at BCU, Dr. Paul Weber has met a variety of students, worked on research projects with other faculty members, and was introduced to the woman he now calls his wife.

Theresa Engle

Associate professor and chair of Education, Theresa Engle is happy to say "I don't go to work, I get paid for doing what I love."

Mark Rossi

Professor of Business Administration and Department Chair, Mark Rossi, J.D., enjoys the family environment of Briar Cliff and that his students aren't just a number.

Isiah Lysius

Isiah Lysius says there are so many resources on campus it's hard to not be successful.

Mireya Jimenez-Alcala

BCU appealed to Mireya Jimenez-Alcala due its affordability, nursing program, and the diversity of the students.

Julian Lee

Julian Lee, a Health Administration alum, shares how the family oriented environment and the Briar Cliff mission has helped him shape his future.

Ricardo Tovar

Ricardo Tovar, a Kinesiology and Human Performance alum from Panama City, was drawn to the Cliff because of the tradition mindset and the opportunity to diversify his life in a new country.

Kathy LaFavor

Kathy LaFavor, a Biology alum, came to BCU, lived it, and is now excited by the changes the Cliff is making in the education scene.

Andrew Tibbetts

Andrew Tibbetts, an elementary education alum from California, found a tightknit community at BCU that helps him inspire his students as teacher.

Mike Hames & Paul Martindale

Mike Hames & Paul Martindale attribute their success and growth to BCU because of the foundations they were given.

Enny Owl

Enny Owl, a Digital Communications and Journalism alum, was impressed by BCU's tight community and attributes it to her coming out of her shell and growing as a person.

Victor Marrero

Victor Marrero, a Business Administration alum, was brought to BCU by the soccer program and took advantages of our connections on campus to create a career in business.

Brianna Colshan

Brianna Colshan, an online nursing student, testifies to the flexibility of Briar Cliff and the benefits of our community resources.

Dr. Wilfrido Suarez

Dr. Wilfrido Suarez, a Department of Modern Languages professor, vouches for the cultural experience and importance of immersing yourself in another culture.

Ashley Hohenstein

Ashley Hohenstein, an education alum, gives credit to her mentors and teachers at the Cliff for her passion and drive in her career.

Raphael Mbonyingingo

Raphael Mbonyingingo talks about his unique experiences in the business department and around campus.

Lyndsey Johnson

Lyndsey Johnson shares her experiences and the benefits of being in the nursing program at BCU.

Olivia Mason

Olivia Mason, a Digital Communications alum, speaks on the 1930 club at BCU. The 1930 strives to empower women on campus and in the community.

John Flanery

John Flanery, an education alum and president of Bishop Heelan Catholic Schools, emphasizes the family culture BCU has built on campus and in the Sioux land community.

Andrea Snowball

Andrea Snowball is a Briar Cliff Business Administration alum who completed her degree online.

Christian Sanders

Christian Sanders, a Doctor of physical therapy student from California, discusses how BCU's active involvement in the community attracted him to campus.

Erin Small

Director of New Student Programs, Erin Small, says her passion is to help other people find their passions.

Nate Frankman

You're not just a number here. Nate Frankman touches on the community at BCU and the importance of campus ministry.

Katie Logan

"It's really it's own unique village up here." Katie Logan on how Briar Cliff became her home away from home.

Lana Johnson

After spending 18 years at The Cliff, Lana Johnson values the relationships she's made with the students and faculty members the most.

Liz Rembold

Program Director and Assistant Professor of Social Work, Liz Rembold, spotlights the Franciscan values and the genuine community at BCU.

Marissa Messinger

The welcoming and caring community at BCU makes Marissa Messinger proud to be a part of the blue and gold family.

Cathy Grimsley

Nursing Program Director, Cathy Grimsley, reflects on her experiences at The Cliff as a former student and her time as current faculty member.

Erich Erdman

Men's Basketball player, Erich Erdman, talks about the benefit of having attentive teachers and coaches at BCU.

Justin Rhodes

Assistant Director of Multicultural Programs, Justin 'Jay' Rhodes, touches on the unique and diverse community at BCU.

Diontre Collins-Jones

Choosing the best college for you is a big decision. Find out what stuck out to Diontre about BCU.

Danielle Ullmann

In this 1930 testimonial, read Danielle Ullmann from Pierre, SD's story about how as a nurse she is determined to make an impact on her patient's healthcare experience.

Teresa Guzman

Teresa Guzman's story is a 1930 testimonial all about woman empowerment and mental health. A social work major who will graduate in 22', Teresa is a local student who grew up in Sioux City.

Johanna Vaske

In this 1930 testimonial, you will learn more about Johanna Vaske as an elementary education major from Bancroft, NE who graduated in the class of '20.

Peyton Coffin

In this 1930 testimonial, you will read about how facing challenges head-on is the name of Peyton Coffin's game. Coffin is a psychology major from Salem, IA, who graduated in '20.

Rachel Knutston Kobold

In this 1930 testimonial, we read about, Rachel Knuston Kobold, a Graphic Design student who graduated in the class of '20. Rachel is no stranger to working hard for what she wants.

Christie Finnegan

Christie Finnegan, an Executive Director at Goosmann Law Firm, shares the benefits to women involved in The 1930 club at BCU.