Q: What is the meaning of the word “Viterbo” in relation to La Crosse’s Viterbo University?

A: According to the book “Continuity & Change: A History of Viterbo College, 1890-1980,” by Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration Theodine Sebold, how and when the name of the school was formally changed to “Viterbo College” is not known. The name itself comes from the city of Viterbo, Italy, where Rose, the patron of St. Rose Convent, was born in 1235.
Before 1937, the school had been known by a variety of names: St. Rose Normal School, St. Rose Teachers College and St. Rose Junior College. Starting in 1937, “Viterbo College” began appearing on school correspondences, and in 1940, when ground was broken for a new building, “Viterbo College” had become the school’s official name.

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