Robert (Bob) Van Wicklin has been named vice president for advancement at Viterbo University. He serves as a member of the president’s cabinet and oversees fundraising, benefactor and alumni relations, and scholarship creation in this senior leadership position.
Van Wicklin succeeds Jim Salmo, who will stay on as a senior advisor to the university president until his retirement this spring. Van Wicklin brings 14 years of advancement experience to Viterbo, including his most recent post as vice president for university advancement at St. Bonaventure University in New York. He has also held similar advancement leadership positions at State University of New York at Buffalo and Houghton College, also in the Empire State.
Earlier in his career, he spent 17 years as a staff member on Capitol Hill for two different New York members of the U.S. House of Representatives, including 12 years working for Rep. Amo Houghton in a variety of capacities from international affairs advisor to press secretary to chief of staff.
“I am very excited Bob has joined Viterbo to lead our amazing advancement team,” said President Rick Trietley. “He understands our mission and values, is a collaborative team-builder, leads with integrity, and has a proven track record for fundraising success.”
A U.S. Navy veteran, Van Wicklin served nine years as a Naval Intelligence Officer, including combat duty in Afghanistan. He earned a bachelor’s degree in international studies and political science from Houghton College and a master’s degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College in Rhode Island. He has also completed several professional development programs, including courses from Harvard University, the University of Buffalo, the New York State School Boards Association, and Disney Corporation.
“It is an honor to join the Viterbo community,” Van Wicklin said. “The university’s Catholic and Franciscan values have shaped a community based on service, kindness, and humility, which is very meaningful to me personally and professionally. Viterbo has a tremendous circle of philanthropic support, and I look forward to building on this strong foundation and advancing the university’s mission and strategic priorities.”
