St. Norbert College joins the Norbertines of St. Norbert Abbey in congratulating the Very Rev. Bradley Vanden Branden, O. Praem., ’09, who was recently elected abbot. He is the abbey’s eighth abbot and will serve a nine-year term.

Abbot Vanden Branden follows Abbot Dane Radecki, O. Praem., ’72, who reached retirement age after nearly eight years of service as abbot. 

According to St. Norbert Abbey, shortly after the election results were revealed, Abbot Vanden Branden received his mozzetta (abbatial cape) and pectoral cross, which has been worn by every abbot since 1955. He also placed his hand on the Book of Gospels and read the Oath of Fidelity and the Profession of Faith. 

The Abbot is a Green Bay-area native. He graduated from West De Pere High School and earned an undergraduate degree in music education from St. Norbert College. He then furthered his education at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, where he earned a Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts in Theology (Liturgy). He was ordained to the priesthood in 2016. 

Since then he has served as:

• Chaplain at Notre Dame Academy (2016-2018)

• Prior at St. Norbert Abbey (2018-2026)

• Director of the Norbertine Center for Spirituality (2024-present)

The abbatial blessing Mass will take place in April at St. Norbert Abbey Church. In preparation for this special liturgy, Abbot Vanden Branden will develop a coat of arms. During the Mass, Bishop David Ricken will confer on the abbot his miter, crozier and ring, which are symbols of authority and service.