🚨 ESPN NEWS: Penn State to Posthumously Honor Joe Paterno with Monumental Award Recognizing Legacy and Impact
State College, PA — In a move that is sure to spark reflection, reverence, and renewed conversation across the college football landscape, Penn State University has announced it will posthumously honor the late, iconic head coach Joe Paterno with a prestigious award commemorating his vast contributions to the university, the sport of football, and generations of student-athletes.
The announcement came during an emotional press conference at Beaver Stadium, where university officials revealed the creation of the “Paterno Excellence Legacy Award”, set to be given annually to a coach or educator who embodies the values of leadership, education, and athlete development that Paterno championed during his tenure.
> “Coach Paterno’s legacy is layered, complex, and profound,” said Penn State President Dr. Neeli Bendapudi. “This award honors the decades he spent shaping young men, building academic standards, and elevating Penn State football into a national powerhouse.”
Joe Paterno, who served as Penn State’s head coach for 46 seasons, amassed 409 victories—still the most wins by a major college football coach—and led the Nittany Lions to two national championships. Beyond wins, he was known for championing academic success, philanthropy, and personal development.
This decision comes more than a decade after his death and amid lingering debate over his role in the university’s darkest chapter. However, many alumni and former players have long advocated for some form of formal acknowledgment of his broader legacy.
The first recipient of the Paterno Excellence Legacy Award will be announced later this year, and a permanent display honoring Paterno’s impact is also being planned inside the university’s athletic complex.
Love him or question him, one truth is undeniable: JoePa changed college football forever.
#JoePaternoLegacy #WeAre #PennStatePride #CollegeFootballHistory
