From reading about explorer Jim Bridger and the American frontier as a kid to devouring the history selection of the Book of the Month Club subscription he received as a Christmas present while in junior high, Viterbo Professor Keith Knutson has always loved history. That passion for history combined with his affection for the human interaction that accompanies the profession of teaching has resulted in a very enjoyable 32-years at the university.

Knutson’s efforts in teaching classes such as Western Civilization, American Government, U.S. History, the European Union, and the Vietnam War were recognized when he was named Teacher of the Year at Viterbo’s annual Rose Awards ceremony earlier this month.

“I was deeply honored,” he said. “Like so many things, it made me think about the people whose guidance helped get me there. I’m grateful because this means I’ve been a good teacher. My time at Viterbo has been very rewarding.”

Knutson brings a rich variety of world and life experiences to his position. He served four years in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War, worked in Saudi Arabia as a tennis coach, and spent 20 summers backpacking around Europe. His time in Italy, Jerusalem, and other places made him the perfect faculty member to teach the Viterbo study abroad course, Christianity in the Ancient World.

“I’ve always looked forward to coming to work,” said Knutson, who earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and political science, a Master of Education degree from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, and a PhD in history from the University of Missouri-Columbia. “Teaching gets me up and going every day. I have also greatly enjoyed my interactions with my colleagues, especially my time serving as chair of the faculty council.”

In addition to class curriculum, Knutson stresses the importance of political participation to his students. Outside of Viterbo, he enjoys reading history, playing tennis, and spending time with his children and grandchildren.