We Are PENN STATE: A Symbol of Unity and Pride
“We Are PENN STATE” is more than just a chant—it is a declaration of pride, a symbol of unity, and a representation of a powerful community spirit that transcends generations. Those four words hold deep meaning for students, alumni, faculty, and fans alike. They encapsulate the values of loyalty, resilience, and belonging that are at the heart of the Penn State University experience.
The origins of the chant trace back to the 1940s, during a time when Penn State was seeking to establish its identity on the national stage, particularly in athletics. While several legends surround the phrase’s origin, one of the most popular stories attributes it to a 1947 football game against the University of Miami. Penn State’s team, which had African American players, reportedly refused to play unless all team members were allowed to participate, despite opposition from the host school. According to the legend, in response to being asked who they were, the team replied, “We are Penn State,” emphasizing unity over individual identities. Whether entirely factual or part of school folklore, the story reinforces the idea of standing together as one.
Today, the chant “We Are… PENN STATE!” is an integral part of the university culture. It is heard at sporting events, orientation sessions, alumni gatherings, and even in random encounters between Penn Staters around the world. It starts with one person shouting “We Are,” and the crowd replying in unison, “PENN STATE.” This call and response creates an instant bond, a shared moment of identity, whether among 100,000 fans at Beaver Stadium or two alumni meeting in a foreign country.
The power of the chant lies in its simplicity and inclusiveness. It makes every member of the Penn State community feel valued and part of something bigger than themselves. It’s not just about football or academics—it’s about the lifelong connections and shared values that come with being part of Penn State.
Penn State University is one of the largest and most respected public universities in the United States. With a strong commitment to research, service, and student success, the university embodies the ideals of integrity, excellence, and community. “We Are PENN STATE” captures that mission in just four words.
In times of celebration and even in times of hardship, this phrase unites the Penn State family. After the tragic events and challenges the university has faced in its history, the chant became a reaffirmation of the community’s strength and resilience. It’s a reminder that while individuals may come and go, the spirit of Penn State endures.
In essence, “We Are PENN STATE” is more than a slogan. It’s a feeling. It’s a bond. It’s a tradition passed from one generation to the next, echoing through the years as a proud affirmation of who we are and what we stand for.
