In 2001, Viterbo University was the first university in the world to offer a Master’s degree in Servant Leadership. Years later we are still the only Master’s degree in Servant Leadership in the nation. During those 20+ years, more than 325 graduates continue to serve their organizations and communities in the fields of health care, education, military, religious institutions, large and small businesses, and non-profits.
This seven-week, non-credit certificate features the flexibility to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule, at an affordable price of $799 for the entire certificate, with world-class instructors. You will have the opportunity to reflect on your experiences as a leader and to develop skills in communication, storytelling, and ethical decision-making to help build your community and create a servant-led culture within your institution.
July 9 - August 20, 2024
Online Certificate Schedule
| Session 1 |
Posted Online July 9, 2024 (learn at your own pace) |
“Servant Leadership Theory and Practice” Welcome and Introductions—meet the instructors and fellow cohort members |
| Session 2 |
Posted Online July 16, 2024 (learn at your own pace) |
“Listening and Self-awareness” |
| Session 3 |
Posted Online July 23, 2024 (learn at your own pace) |
“Leading Change and Transitions” |
| Session 4 |
Posted Online July 30, 2024 (learn at your own pace) |
“Mission, Purpose, and Vocation” Optional Zoom: 7–8:30 p.m. CST on July 30th |
| Session 5 |
Posted Online August 6, 2024 (learn at your own pace) |
“Building Community” |
| Session 6 |
Posted Online August 11, 2024 (learn at your own pace) |
“Building a Servant-Led Culture” Optional Zoom: 7–8:30 p.m. CST on August 11th |
Meet the Team
Thomas Thibodeau - Distinguished Professor of Servant Leadership
Thomas Thibodeau is the Distinguished Professor of Servant Leadership at Viterbo University where he has been teaching for 39 years. Tom is the founder of the master's degree in Servant leadership at Viterbo, the first and only master's degree of its kind in the nation. He is a husband, father, grandfather, teacher, active community member and part owner of a country tavern. Thibodeau speaks and consults regionally and nationally on the Positive Power of Servant Leadership.
Robert Toomey, Ed.D - Learning & Talent Development Consultant
Robert Toomey, Ed.D., is a learning and talent development consultant. He has previously served in training and professional development for several public agencies. While serving as program director for the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Division of Continuing Studies, Robert was founding director of the Servant Leadership Certificate program. Prior to receiving a doctorate in educational leadership from Edgewood College, Robert earned a M.A. in Servant Leadership from Viterbo University.
Nicole Van Ert, MBA - Director of the Center for the Professional Learning
Van Ert has taught undergraduate and graduate courses within the College of Business, Leadership, and Ethics. She is a Ph.D. candidate at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee, WI. Her dissertation research concerns ethical leadership and social capital. Van Ert is certified in the Predictive Index, The Leadership Circle Profile™ 360°, and Compression Planning®. She is passionate about historic home preservation and owns three vacation rentals with her friend and business partner. Van Ert enjoys serving the greater La Crosse community as an active board member of the Coulee Region Authentic Learning Council (CRALC) and La Crosse SOUP.
Alycia Larson, MBA - Coordinator of the Center for Professional Learning
Alycia has taught undergraduate courses within the College of Business, Leadership, and Ethics at Viterbo University. She received both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Viterbo. Alycia is certified in Compression Planning®, the Predictive Index, and is an Everything DiSC® Certified Practitioner. Larson serves on the Executive Committee for Viterbo’s Employee Assembly and is the recipient of the 2022 Servant Leader Award. She is an active member of the Board of Directors at Bethel Home and Services in Viroqua, WI.
Contact Us
Alycia Larson
Coordinator, Center for Professional Learning
aclarson@viterbo.edu
608-796-3029