Online Certificate in Servant Leadership
March 2 - April 20, 2026
Viterbo University was the first university in the world to offer a Master’s degree in Servant Leadership in 2001, and more than two decades later, we are still the only one in the nation. Today, more than 400 graduates are practicing servant leadership across health care, education, business, military, faith communities, and nonprofit organizations.
This pioneering spirit continues in our Online Certificate in Servant Leadership, a seven-week, non-credit program designed to fit your schedule.
You will learn from expert faculty, engage in meaningful reflection, and build practical skills to foster trust, inspire teams, and lead with confidence.
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Format: 100% online and self-paced with optional live Zoom calls over seven weeks
Tuition: $1,200
Credits: You will receive a shareable, digital Certificate in Servant Leadership along with three credits of prior learning that may be applied toward a Master of Servant Leadership or Master of Business Administration.
What Is Servant Leadership?
Servant leadership is a philosophy that puts the needs and growth of others first. It centers leadership on the well-being, development, and empowerment of team members.
Why It Matters
Organizations that embrace servant leadership build trust, strengthen collaboration, increase engagement, and foster a positive, high-performing culture.
Across Industries
Servant leadership applies in business, health care, education, nonprofits, and beyond. Our certificate equips you with tools to lead effectively — wherever you serve.
Topics Covered
- Servant Leadership Theory and Practice
- Listening and Self-Awareness
- Leading Change and Transitions
- Mission, Purpose, and Vocation
- Building Community
- Cultivating a Servant-Led Culture
Who Should Enroll
Leaders from all levels can benefit from this program, from executives to middle managers to emerging and entry-level leaders. If you want to make a meaningful impact in your workplace or community, this certificate is for you.
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, Executive Director of the Center for the Professional Learning
Nicole 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.
Nicky Rose, Program Manager, Center for Professional Learning
Nicky has an extensive background in academic affairs and program management in higher education. She received her bachelor's degree at Texas State University. Nicky is the Head Coach of Holmen High School Volleyball, where she brings passion, discipline, and a servant-leadership approach to developing athletes on and off the court. She is the recipient of Viterbo University's Servant-Leader Award and Employee of the Year Award, as well as the 2024 Tribune Coach of the Year, honors that recognize her commitment to mission-driven leadership and her ability to empower others.
Questions? Please reach out to Nicky Rose at narose@viterbo.edu or 608-796-3618.
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