Born the son of hardworking parents in Pittsburgh, Rick learned early in like the importance of family, the Church, and hard work. He went on to the University of Miami, Florida, where he earned an undergraduate degree in psychology, a graduate degree in college student personal, and a doctorate in the administration of higher education. Dr. Artmen was first in his Army ROTC class and served as cadet brigade commander. He received his commission in 1970.

He began his professional career at his alma mater, where he served as residence life area coordinator, assistant dean of students and international student advisor, acting dean of students and international student advisor, acting dean of students, university ombudsman, and assistant to the vice president of student affairs.

In 1982, Rick accepted the position of vice president for student affairs and assistant professor of education at Nebraska Wesleyan University. He worked there 12 years before being names president of Siena Heights University in Adrian, Michigan in 1994. Rick then began his duties as Viterbo University’s eight president July 1, 2006.

Throughout his career, Rick has been an active member of a number of professional and civic organizations and has served on a variety of professional and community boards, commissions, and task forces. Rick is a member of the downtown Rotary Chapter and he presently serves on the Board of Directors of Downtown Main Street. He is a past member of the La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. He served a number of years on the executive committee and 2 years as president of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletic Council of Presidents. He served on the Board of Directors of the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities and is a member of the Board of Directors of the Council of Independent Colleges. He also serves as a trustee of Felician University (NJ).

Because of Rick’s passion for making a difference in the lives of youth, he became an integral partner in the development of the Amie L. Mathy Center and the continued collaboration between Viterbo University and the Boys & Girls Club. Under his leadership, the partnership has flourished as more and more Viterbo students and faculty have become involved in the mission of the Club. This model has become recognized nationally.



Rick and his wife have two children, Darin and Joy, an four grandchildren, Braxton, Alexi, Jordan, and Zachary.