Viterbo University Celebrates Public Launch of the The Viterbo Effect: a Campaign for Lasting Impact

Oct. 2, 2026

Contact Bob Van Wicklin at 608-796-3074 or bvanwicklin@viterbo.edu

VITERBO UNIVERSITY CELEBRATES PUBLIC LAUNCH OF THE VITERBO EFFECT: A CAMPAIGN FOR LASTING IMPACT; $42 MILLION ALREADY RAISED SURPASSES INITIAL GOAL OF $30 MILLION

LA CROSSE, Wis. – Viterbo University officials shared exceptional news at The Viterbo Effect: a Campaign for Lasting Impact public launch celebration Oct. 2—the campaign has already raised $42 million during its silent phase, greatly surpassing the initial total campaign goal of $30 million.

“The incredible accomplishments we have achieved over the last two and a half years during the silent phase of the campaign have set the tone for a very successful public launch,” said Viterbo University President Rick Trietley. “I wish to thank all of those who have supported Viterbo to date including our founders, the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, whose generosity and support over the past 136 years continues to make a positive impact for our students every day.”

Leading the way as they have done so many times in their history, the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration contributed $3 million, the largest gift in Viterbo’s 136-year history. Their funds were designated for three initiatives consistent with the FSPA’s mission, endowed scholarships, inclusion efforts, and sustainability programs.

Students, employees, and guests heard from President Trietley, Board of Trustees Chair John McHugh, alumna and campaign steering committee chair Cynthia Hougum, faculty member Tom Thibodeau, Student Government Association President Xavier Carnicom, and Viterbo Vice President for Advancement Bob Van Wicklin about the importance of the campaign and its specific initiatives at the launch celebration. Dcn. Emilio Alvarez, Executive Director of Campus Ministry and University Chaplain, gave the benediction.

Divided into five areas of emphasis, or pillars—Student Success, University Programs, Community Environments, Viterbo Mission, and the Viterbo Fund— The Viterbo Effect campaign sought to raise $30 million over five years. As the campaign enters its public phase, Viterbo leaders are seeking to continue the momentum and build upon the $42 million already raised.

“Now I invite our other alumni, friends, and community supporters to consider a donation to the campaign so we can continue educating students for lives of faithful service and ethical leadership,” Trietley said. “The time is now to ensure the next 136 years of this amazing university is poised for success. You are the key to our future, and we are very grateful for all of you.”

For complete details about The Viterbo Effect: A Campaign for Lasting Impact, visit the campaign website at https://theviterboeffect.com.

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