LLU School of Dentistry Journal

Journal

Spring 2002

Distinguished Alumnus Awards given to
Drs. Dan Fischer and Curtis Wiggins

During the Homecoming Reception in Wong Kerlee International Conference Center Distinguished Alumnus Awards were presented to Dan Fischer, SD’74 and Curtis Wiggins, SD’74.

Dan Fischer
Spanning 28 years to date, the distinguished career of Dr. Dan Fischer has substantially ripened from its humble beginnings in cramped family living spaces where he and his family worked many long hours to develop the innovative concepts that would later mature into the highly successful, international corporation, Ultradent Products.

Of equal distinction to Dr. Fischer’s pursuit for better dental alternatives is his unwavering belief in the virtue of humanity. Dr. Fischer’s brand of altruistic dentistry can be noted as his greatest accomplishment. Ultradent Products, Inc. has donated a substantial amount to charitable causes in conjunction with abundant services from Dr. Fischer’s own private practice. Born of the same personal interest to improve quality of life is his nonprofit organization, Smiles Against Hate, which works to foster and encourage respect, acceptance, and understanding among people of all racial, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds.

He has held multiple academic positions. His articles have appeared in diverse publications, and he has received numerous awards. In 1997, he was named LLU School of Dentistry Alumnus of the Year.

Curtis Wiggins
After graduating from Loma Linda in 1974, Dr. Wiggins earned a certificate in pediatric dentistry from University of California, Los Angeles, in 1976. He returned to the School in 1976, and was named chair of pediatric dentistry.

In 1979 “Cisco,” as he’s known by his friends, created Loma Linda Children’s Dental Group with Wil Nation. He relocated to Lewiston, Idaho, in 1981, where he would become president of the Lewis Clark Dental Association, chair, scientific sessions, for the Idaho State Dental Association, and a member of the Medical Service bureau/Blue Shield Insurance procedures advisory board. Dr. Wiggins has shown interest in the well-being of the next generation as a member of the Head Start board of directors, and Walla Walla College Parents’ Advisory Board.

The plaque that was given to Dr. Wiggins is inscribed: “LLUSD Alumni Association honors Curtis Wiggins, DDS, Distinguished Alumnus, for going above and beyond the call of duty in student advocacy and alumni relations, and representing the Alumni Association in strategic planning with School of Dentistry administration, faculty, staff, and students.”

During the Homecoming Reception Daniel Kunihira, SD'74, immediate past president, Alumni Association (right), presents Distinguished Alumnus Awards to classmates Dan Fischer (left) and Curtis Wiggins.

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