Pioneer Your Leadership Journey: Enroll in Viterbo's Exclusive Servant Leadership Certificate Program
In 2001, Viterbo University was the first university in the world to offer a master’s degree in servant leadership (MASL), and we are still the only MASL program in the nation.
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.
Based on our successful MASL program, we created the servant leadership certificate program. This seven-week, non-credit online certificate features the flexibility to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule.
Our servant leadership course allows you to learn from world-class instructors and reflect on your experiences as a leader. Develop skills in communication, storytelling, and ethical decision-making to build your community and create a servant-led culture within your institution.
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What is Servant Leadership Theory?
Servant Leadership Meaning
Servant leadership theory is a unique philosophy that values the needs of others above personal interests. This model of leadership is centered around the well-being and development of team members.
Our servant leadership certificate program provides a comprehensive understanding of this approach to leadership, empowering individuals to become effective servant leaders in their chosen fields.
Benefits of Servant Leadership Theory
Adopting servant leadership principles can have numerous positive impacts on an organization. Operating from a servant leadership theory framework, you will foster a work culture that values positivity, encourages employee engagement and satisfaction, and enhances teamwork and collaboration.
By prioritizing the needs of others, servant leaders inspire trust, foster strong relationships, and empower their team members to reach their maximum potential.
Student Leadership Theory: Application Across Various Industries
Servant leadership is not confined to a specific industry or sector. It is adaptable and can be utilized in diverse fields such as business, health care, education, and non-profit organizations. Servant leadership theory can be tailored to address the unique needs and challenges of different sectors.
Whether you are a business professional aiming to enhance your leadership skills or an educator aspiring to foster a positive learning environment, our Servant Leadership Certificate program can provide you with the necessary tools and strategies for success.
Viterbo’s Online Certificate Structure
Our servant leadership certificate program offers a comprehensive and structured curriculum designed to equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in servant leadership roles.
We balance theoretical concepts and practical applications, providing a holistic learning experience. Our servant leadership course covers various aspects of servant leadership.
Throughout the online certificate program, you will develop a range of valuable skills and competencies. Learning outcomes focus on enhancing leadership abilities, fostering a servant mindset, and promoting ethical decision-making.
By the end of the program, you will be well-equipped with the tools necessary to lead with compassion, empathy, and a commitment to serving others.
Who Should Enroll in the Servant Leadership Certificate Program?
The Servant Leadership Certificate program is designed for a wide range of professionals seeking servant leadership development. Whether you are a seasoned executive or a talent development professional, our online certificate offers valuable insights and practical skills to enhance your leadership abilities.
Individuals who may benefit from our servant leadership course include:
Professionals seeking leadership development: If you want to take your career to the next level by honing your leadership skills, our program is an excellent choice. Whether you are in a managerial role or aspiring to become a leader in your organization, our servant leadership certificate will provide you with the necessary tools to lead with integrity, empathy, and a focus on serving others.
Managers and executives: If you want to enhance your leadership effectiveness, you will find our online certificate program extremely beneficial. It provides a comprehensive understanding of servant leadership principles and practices, offering valuable insights into fostering a positive work culture, empowering your team, and driving organizational success.
HR and talent development professionals: If you play a critical role in shaping organizational culture and developing leaders, our servant leadership certificate program offers a unique opportunity to apply servant leadership to your role. You will learn how to attract, develop, and retain servant leaders within your organization, creating a positive impact on employee engagement and overall performance.
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
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 - Program Manager 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
Nicole Van Ert
Executive Director, Center for Professional Learning
nmvanert@viterbo.edu
608-796-3029