On September 1, 2016 Penn State announced plans to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Joe Paterno's first game as head coach on September 17, 2016 during a game against Temple. A serious divide in public opinion of Joe exists between the seemingly “pro-Paterno” and “anti-Paterno” people. Regardless of one’s opinion concerning Paterno’s legacy--it is simply too early to make a definitive decision honoring Paterno.  The decision is ill-informed and we as a University should not execute it.  

     It is too soon to commemorate Joe Paterno. Wait for the trials of Curley, Schultz, and Spanier. Wait to see an investigation into the Second Mile Charity. Wait for the bad press to wither out so that Penn State can have even a semi-repaired image in the media’s eye. All the commemoration of JoePa does is appease the wealthy donors and former football players, who undoubtedly played the largest role in this decision in the first place.

     Whether it is comfortable to admit or not, neither side can be absolutely sure of the extent to which Joe Paterno was involved in the Penn State Child Sexual Abuse Scandal. There are gray areas and that is the reason why there seems to be so much controversy over how we should remember the undoubtedly significant history of our football program and its contribution to our school.

     This decision goes beyond just “Joe Paterno and his legacy.” It is quite evident that Penn State will do anything to cement the “culture” that anyone who has attended the school knows so well. The culture is one that may be difficult to put into words, but is something along the lines of “more than anything else, bleed blue and white and worship football.” Groupthink contributes to why the University is looked upon in disdain from outsiders.

     This is an academic institution. This is a public university. Perhaps more than anything, this is a business. No matter what you want to call Penn State, its higher-ups need to put things into perspective and know that a decision is made for a population, rather than a specific group of people.

     I ask the JoePa faithful, the JoePa critics, and most importantly the students of Penn State to not only sign this petition, but also to think of this as more than Joe Paterno. Think of this as more than the football program. Think of this as the University representing you and your values. And ask yourself, “What values do I want my school to stand for?”

Signed,

Penn State Sophomore

Andrew Limauro