After nearly six years as a corrections officer, Spencer Seitz saw the deep connections between trauma, addiction, and mental illness—and the limitations of addressing them in a jail setting. Motivated to make a greater impact, the La Crosse native returned to school to pursue social work.

Some Viterbo University students made the absolute most of their time between the fall and spring semesters by participating in incredible educational experiences in Costa Rica and London.

Viterbo Associate Professor Chad Kolbe is in his 19th year of teaching the theatre professionals of tomorrow. Conservatory for the Performing Arts shows are made outstanding in large part to his work as technical director, production manager, and lighting designer.

Gordon Murphy worked full-time as a tool maker while earning his engineering degree at Viterbo, determined to expand his career opportunities. Now a manufacturing engineer at Chart Industries, he applies both hands-on experience and technical knowledge to oversee the heat transfer fins on cryogenic exchangers used in energy, aerospace, and industrial gas systems.

Sheila Severson, president’s office, was named Staff of the Year at the annual Viterbo University Rose Awards ceremony May 1. Benjamin Gonzales, theatre and musical theatre, was named the 2025 Teacher of the Year. Both are pictured with Viterbo President Rick Trietley, middle.

A chance conversation led Miranda Campbell to Viterbo’s engineering program, where she gained hands-on experience redesigning dairy equipment at GEA Farm Technologies. She hopes to continue with the company after graduating in May.

Jacky Mathews ’22 took a chance on Viterbo’s brand-new engineering program, and it paid off. Now a Product Design Engineer at Trane, Jacky is putting her skills to work designing the future of HVAC technology.

Jacob Lee ’22 started as an intern at Tailored Label Products and now leads a team as digital production supervisor. He credits Viterbo’s engineering program for equipping him with both technical skills and the leadership abilities crucial to his success.

Viterbo’s ethical leadership doctorate program brings together professionals from diverse fields to develop real-world leadership skills rooted in ethics and collaboration. Director Shannon McManimon says the program empowers students to be the kind of change the world needs.

After nearly 20 years in nonprofit fundraising, Rikki Harry launched LEAP Nonprofit Consulting and enrolled in Viterbo’s Ethical Leadership doctorate program—both aligning perfectly with her values and goals.