Dr. McDowell was born in the Pacific Northwest. He recently moved to be amongst a community that shares in the values of his faith. He is a graduate of Oregon State University, where he focused on general sciences. After finishing his undergraduate studies, Dr. McDowell attended Creighton University’s School of Dentistry in Omaha, Nebraska. Post medical school, Dr. McDowell spent time overseas serving underprivileged communities through dental care. Dr. McDowell is an advocate for giving back to the community and, most recently, did so through patient care for those who are disabled at a community hospital in Oregon. Dr. McDowell currently lives in Mt. Juliet with his wife and three dogs: Knox, a big bloodhound; Uli, a round bulldog; and Moses, a goofy labradoodle. Dr. McDowell and his wife are members of Joy Church. They have four grown children and have recently become grandparents.