Donald Wender, M.D., PhD

Dr. Wender, Medical Director at UnityPoint Health – St. Luke's June E. Nylen Cancer Center, has seen almost everything over the course of his cancer career. What he is most proud of is his involvement in some of the earliest clinical research trials for colon, breast and lung cancer. Dr. Wender was one of the first medical oncologists to use new drugs for ovarian and renal cancers. He truly has been on the forefront of advancing cancer treatments.

While earning his Ph.D., Dr. Wender did not want to stay in lab research and knew he’d continue with his medical degree. He was drawn to oncology because of how challenging it was, but also how it continued to change.

Dr. Wender is a member of the American College of Physicians, the Iowa Oncology Society and the American Society of Clinical Oncology. He currently serves on the executive committee of ACCRV, a collaborative research group between industry and clinicians.

Known for being very knowledgeable, analytical, and direct, Dr. Wender is also a hard worker. He is married and has six grown children. When not working, Dr. Wender enjoys exercising and playing tennis or golf.