May 1, 2026
Contact Emily Weaver at 608-796-3930 or eeweaver@viterbo.edu
LA CROSSE, Wis. – Lin Rauch, assistant professor of nursing, was named the 2026 Teacher of the Year at the annual Viterbo University Rose Awards ceremony April 30.
“Throughout the many studies I have pursued in my lifetime, I have never come across a professor who is so dedicated to ensuring her students not only learn the content she teaches but also understand it,” wrote the student who nominated her for the award. “It is clear Professor Lin is passionate about her students' education, as evidenced by her drive to motivate, inspire, and encourage curiosity in them. I look forward to Professor Lin’s lectures and know that, because of her, I will be a great nurse.”
Gregg Hilker, instructional support services, was named Staff of the Year.
“There is not a single day when I don’t see a smile on Gregg’s face,” wrote the person who nominated him for the award. “Despite being unbelievably busy, he consistently shows up, fully present, fully engaged, and always willing to help. He goes above and beyond for both colleagues and students, never hesitating to step in where support is needed.”
Others honored at the Rose Awards were:
- The Payroll Office of Vicki Wolfe and Andrea Schmitz received the Pax et Bonum Award, which is given in recognition of demonstrating the Franciscan values of service, respect, hospitality, stewardship, and joy throughout the Viterbo community.
- Chad Gilbeck, instructional and information technology, received the Sr. Helen Elsbernd Distinguished Service Award, which is presented to a person who has provided outstanding service to the university for more than 20 years, typically in more than one capacity.
- Theodora Nestorova, speech-language pathology, was presented with the Alec Chiu Award, which is given for exceptional work in fostering and developing scholarly opportunities for both students and faculty.
- Cameron Kiersch, nursing, was presented with the Outstanding Advisor of the Year award for his work with students.
- Fr. Conrad Targonski, campus ministry, was presented with the St. Francis Mission Award, which is given to a person who has demonstrated exemplary dedication to the mission of the university.
- Receiving Servant Leader Awards for outstanding leadership were Jayne Coster, College of Business, Leadership, and Ethics; John McMurry, admissions; Michael Schumacher, physical plant; Kyle Trietley, campus ministry; and Vicki Wolfe, payroll.
- Receiving Outstanding Adjunct Professor Awards for their respective schools were Sheila Severson, College of Business, Leadership, and Ethics; Kelli Lewis, College of Nursing and Health; Sarah Ziolkowski, College of Engineering, Letters, and Sciences; Jeff Krauklis, Conservatory for the Performing Arts; and Leon Groce, School of Education.
- Awarded the title of Professor Emeritus was Rochelle Brooks, business.