When a student first steps onto Penn State’s campus, there’s an overwhelming sense of pride and tradition. This feeling is evident in the chants at football games, visits to the Nittany Lion Shrine, walks past Old Main and the unspoken bond between fellow students. But what makes Penn State’s campus culture so distinct? It’s a combination of time-honored traditions and a deep-rooted sense of community that transforms students into Nittany Lions.
The Origins of Tradition
One of the first things noticed at Penn State is that tradition isn’t just something talked about—it’s something lived by. Take the iconic “We Are” chant, for example. It’s more than just a cheer at a football game; it’s a declaration of unity dating back to 1948. According to legend, Penn State was the first college football team to integrate, and when asked by an opposing team if there were any Black players, the response was a resounding “We are Penn State,” signaling that the team would take the field together no matter what. Today, this chant echoes in Beaver Stadium, uniting over 107,000 fans under one banner.
Then there’s THON, the largest student-run philanthropy in the world. What began in 1973 as a small dance marathon has grown into a year-round effort to raise millions for the fight against pediatric cancer. The 46-hour, no-sitting, no-sleeping dance marathon is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a testament to the power of community, bringing together students, families and alumni in a shared mission of hope.
The Unspoken Customs
While the big traditions are well-known, there are also lesser-known customs that play a significant role in defining Penn State’s culture. For example, the Nittany Lion Shrine is a common spot for students to take pictures as first-years and then again as seniors, marking the beginning and end of their time at the university.
One of the most iconic football traditions at Penn State is the White Out game. First introduced in 2004 against Purdue, it quickly became a revered tradition after the legendary 2005 matchup against Ohio State. With fans decked out in white, the atmosphere became electric, earning praise from sports commentators. Another tradition, though borrowed from Notre Dame, involves students throwing a friend into the air after every touchdown, one toss for each point the Lions have scored.
And let’s not forget the mysterious tradition of the “Willard Preacher.” Almost every day this lone figure can be found outside Willard Building, sharing his thoughts on everything from religion to politics. Whether one agrees with him or not, his presence is as much a part of Penn State as Old Main, and students often gather around to listen, debate or simply take a break between classes.
Building a Community
These traditions and customs, both big and small, aren’t just about preserving the past—they’re about building a sense of community that extends far beyond graduation.
“Penn State feels like home because of the people,” says Caroline McMahon, 20, a junior majoring in psychology. “It’s the little things, like knowing where to get the best tailgating spot or how to navigate the buildings on campus. These are the things not learned in orientation; they’re passed down through friendships and shared experiences.”
At Penn State, the traditions aren’t just rules—they’re a way of life.
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