We could boast all day about our variety of academic programs, a 99% placement rate for graduates, paid internships, and great research opportunities. But as a student living on or off campus, college is a time to make real connections and create relationships that will last a lifetime. The moment you step on campus, you'll feel it—the embodiment of one of Viterbo's most visible core values—hospitality. You will find a warm, welcoming, and supportive campus community where you can live, learn, and succeed.
Enjoy Your New Home
Living on campus provides some of the most memorable moments of the college experience. Viterbo offers a variety of HOUSING OPTIONS, from recently remodeled dorm rooms to modern apartments. Viterbo's DINING SERVICES offer three options on campus. The Caf is based on a food court concept, meaning short lines and a great selection. Einstein Bros. Bagels at Franny's offers fresh bagels, sandwiches, soups, salads, fruit, and gourmet coffee. Crossroads P.O.D. is a small convenience store on campus, carrying a variety of products including grab and go sandwiches, ice cream, smoothies, groceries, and health care products.
Get Involved
With 80+ student organizations and activities on campus, students have a wide range of options to stay involved and engaged. There are student organizations based on academic interest, social justice, leadership, service, or just fun. Campus activities organize free or low-cost events for students to attend including casino nights, open mic nights, hypnotists, comedians, and much more.
Serve the Community
Service is one of Viterbo’s core values and students, staff, faculty, and alumni are involved in a variety of efforts to promote the common good through service learning, volunteering, service trips, community action research projects, and study abroad/away opportunities. Service Saturdays (photos on Flickr) are one of the most popular ways to give back.
Get Moving
Participate in intramurals or club sports to have fun, get exercise, and make new friends. Support or join V-Hawk athletics, including nine sports each for men and women, and a co-ed dance team. There are seasons and sports for everyone. For a less competitive option, the Mathy Center and Recreation Department offer a wide variety of services including group fitness classes, personal training, a fitness center, and 1/8 mile track.
Strengthen Leadership Skills
There are several organizations on campus aimed at enriching student experience, enhancing communication, and building leadership skills. The Student Government Association (SGA) is an elected board of students that represents and advocates for their fellow students. The Student Activities Board (SAB) plans safe and free activities and special events for all Viterbo students. Resident students can join the Residence Hall Association (RHA), which formulates, recommends, and reviews policies concerning residence life. The National Society of Leadership and Success aims to create a community where motivated, goal-oriented individuals help each other to succeed.
Explore Your Spirituality
Viterbo has a proud Catholic and Franciscan heritage that can be felt throughout campus. Students with diverse faith and cultural backgrounds are invited to embrace and live our core Catholic and Franciscan values. Students have the opportunity to develop a deep commitment to service and to understanding their faith by participating in Campus Ministry programming and experiences. Mass is offered throughout the year at San Damiano Chapel.
Engage Your Creativity
Attend or participate in the creative or performing arts on campus. Take in a professional touring Broadway production or support Viterbo Music, Theatre, and Music Theatre students in their performances. All students receive discounted tickets. Visit the University Gallery where respected national artists and students exhibit their work. Or, join one the university's three choral groups or the Platinum Edition show choir open to all students regardless of major.
Create a More Just World
Through our core values of integrity, service, and contemplation, Viterbo strives to better ourselves as we work towards a more equitable and just world. This is central to the educational and developmental experience of all learners. Visit the Diversity and Inclusion Center, and explore our compiled resources to learn more about ways you can begin or continue your journey. Join the Breaking Barriers Diversity Club, get involved with the award-winning Identities Project, or learn more about the Greater La Crosse Area Diversity Council. You are encouraged and invited to report all instances in which you feel unsafe or unwelcome using Viterbo Speaks Up.
Share in Viterbo Traditions
Throughout the academic year, Viterbo celebrates several traditions on campus. These traditions include St. Francis Week and the Feast of St. Francis in the fall, the President’s Holiday Dinner (photos on Flickr) in the winter, Courtyard Carni (photos on Flickr) in the spring, and free midnight breakfasts in The Caf for finals week.
Feel Supported in The Hub for Student Support
The Hub for Student Support is a collaboration of student-focused services that supports the academic, career, and personal success of Viterbo students. The Hub includes: counseling services, advising, tutoring, accessibility services, career services, multicultural student support and global engagement, and financial aid. Health services, campus safety, and financial literacy are also available to help you succeed.
Explore La Crosse
Viterbo is just blocks from downtown La Crosse. Discover why La Crosse is ranked as one of the country's best cities. Don't have a car? No problem. With the U-Pass free bus service, you can go virtually anywhere in La Crosse at no cost.