ESPN NEWS: State College, PA — Penn State to Honor the Late Joe Paterno With Posthumous Award, Celebrating His Enduring Legacy
In a move that is already generating widespread reflection and emotion across the college football world, Penn State University announced today that it will present a posthumous award to the late, legendary coach Joe Paterno. The decision, revealed at a press conference held at Beaver Stadium, comes as part of a broader initiative by the university to acknowledge individuals whose contributions have left an indelible mark on its history and values. For Penn State, few figures have shaped the identity of its football program and community as deeply as Paterno.
A Legacy of Excellence and Commitment
Joe Paterno, affectionately known as “JoePa” by generations of players, students, and fans, served as head coach of the Nittany Lions from 1966 to 2011. His 46-year tenure made him one of the longest-serving and most successful coaches in college football history. Under his guidance, Penn State achieved two national championships (in 1982 and 1986), five undefeated seasons, and countless memorable victories that became part of the fabric of college football lore.
Beyond wins and trophies, Paterno was renowned for his commitment to academic excellence and the personal development of his players. He famously championed the idea of the “student-athlete”, pushing for high academic standards and emphasizing integrity on and off the field. His teams consistently posted graduation rates among the highest in major college football, a point of pride for Paterno throughout his career.
“We’re not just here to play football,” he often said. “We’re here to develop young men who will make a difference in the world.”
The Posthumous Award: A Gesture of Respect
Penn State’s planned award, formally titled The Paterno Lifetime Impact Award, will be presented during the university’s upcoming Homecoming Weekend. According to university officials, the honor recognizes Paterno’s profound influence on Penn State’s athletics, academics, and community service initiatives.
“This award is about acknowledging the totality of Joe Paterno’s contributions to Penn State,” said interim athletic director Michael Kraft. “It’s about remembering the coach, the mentor, the educator, and the man who helped build Penn State into a national institution of excellence. We do this with deep respect, reflection, and understanding of both his triumphs and the complex legacy that history records.”
Reaction Across the Football Community
The announcement has already sparked heartfelt reactions from many within the college football and Penn State communities. Former players, many of whom credit Paterno for helping shape their lives beyond football, welcomed the tribute.
“Coach Paterno changed my life,” said Ki-Jana Carter, a former All-American running back. “He taught us about responsibility, teamwork, and doing things the right way. This award is a reminder of everything he stood for.”
Likewise, longtime Penn State fans have expressed support for the gesture, seeing it as an opportunity to celebrate the positive impact Paterno had on thousands of student-athletes and on the culture of the university itself.
A Complex but Powerful Legacy
There is no denying that Paterno’s legacy is multifaceted. While his contributions to Penn State’s football success and academic standards are well-documented and widely respected, his final years were overshadowed by the Sandusky scandal that rocked the university and the wider sports world. The university acknowledged this complexity in its statement, emphasizing that the award is intended to honor Paterno’s broader contributions to Penn State’s mission over nearly half a century.
“We are aware of the sensitivities that come with honoring any historical figure, particularly one whose career ended during such a painful chapter,” said Penn State President Neeli Bendapudi. “But we also believe that it’s important to recognize the good that Coach Paterno did, and to remember him as a figure who gave so much to this community.”
A Moment for Reflection
The presentation of The Paterno Lifetime Impact Award is expected to be a deeply moving moment at Homecoming Weekend, bringing togethe