Prof. uses compassion to inspire lives

“We are a guest in each other’s lives.” This is how Tom Thibodeau, associate professor of religious studies, greeted someone he had never met.

Thibodeau has been part of the Viterbo community for 26 years and considers himself just as much a student as a professor. Building relationships and showing love for community is what he loves most about his job.
“Building a community of concern and passion along with learning from students and faculty is absolutely my favorite part of the job,” Thibodeau told Lumen.

The way Thibodeau is able to build this sense of community is to, quite simply…be himself.

“I am a man of conversation and a man of compassion,” he said.

“My reason for being here is not only to assist students in getting an education, I want to help people build a life,” he said. “I think I can do that by talking with students and listening to what they really have to say.”

Sometimes, however, life on campus for Thibodeau can be difficult and challenging.  On three separate occasions he was asked to take over classes already in session for professors who passed away.

“I have had the honor of finishing a semester’s work that has been unfortunately left behind from other professors passing on; Father Tom O’Neill, Earl Madary and Sister Grace. I have had to carry forth their commitment and maintain that commitment to the students through some very difficult times,” he said.

During these times and throughout his career at Viterbo, Thibodeau has been willing to talk with students and faculty.

“Whenever we have lost a part of the Viterbo community, Tom has talked with me and helped me put things in perspective,” Assistant Academic Vice President Wayne Wojciechowski said. He added, “The man is uplifting, he always seems to put a smile on my face with his upbeat personality.”

He has had the same effect on at least one student.

“He just simply loves people. I did my volunteer work at the Place of Grace last year and he was there almost every time I was, playing cards and helping out around the house,” said Amanda Powers, former psychology major and 2008 Viterbo graduate from Apple Valley, Minn.

Place of Grace, which Thibodeau founded, is part of the Catholic Worker House movement. Services offered include free dinners on Thursday and Sundays, with lunch and hospitality hours Tuesdays through Thursdays. There are no employees, only volunteers and guests.

Thibodeau maintains that he not only learns from students and faculty, but also is inspired by them. He recalled a situation recently where he was completely moved and inspired by one of his students.

“The other day one of my students wrote a theological reflection on the death of his father. I had feelings of great inspiration and admiration for him; it was an amazing piece of writing and I admire him for confronting the issue like he did,” Thibodeau said.

 “I am a man of faith and a servant to God,” he said. “I continue to search for faith in every thing I do.” 

Whether it’s cooking and preparing meals for gatherings with his wife to share life in the company of others or helping a struggling student through difficult times, he always has faith.

“When we show up, God shows up,” he said. “To know love and serve God is my greatest privilege.”

On the personal side of his life, Thibodeau remains the same man. He is a man who appreciates the small things in life. He loves to cook, especially for others, and enjoys playing golf with his brother.

 “I’ve always loved to cook. My wife and I have had a boathouse for about 10 years now and we turned the whole thing into one big kitchen,” he said.

During the summer months, a sense of community and friendship can be found at these gatherings on the boathouse. 

“All sorts of people come together for good food and good conversation,” he said.

So he lives a life of faith, love and happiness. He feels he is blessed in many ways in every aspect of his life. He is a man of high position and many responsibilities. 

And he is a humble man. After being asked about his most recent award (he was named the distinguished professor of Servant Leadership) he received from President Richard Artman and the Board last August, he asked to skip that question.         

“My position here at Viterbo, and in life, is not something I have earned or deserve…it is a gift,” he said.