A message from Interim Penn State President Rodney Erickson

This is one of the saddest weeks in the history of Penn State. It has been

difficult to comprehend the horrific nature of the allegations that were

revealed in the Attorney General’s presentment last week. As a member of the

Penn State community for 34 years, as a parent, and as a grandfather, I find

the charges as they have been described to be devastating, and my heart goes

out to those who have been victimized and their families. This is a terrible

tragedy for everyone involved, and it will take some time to bring a measure

of understanding and resolution to the community.

In addition to the legal process under way, Penn State’s Board of Trustees has

authorized a full investigation “…to determine what failures occurred, who

is responsible, and what measures are necessary to insure that this never

happens at our University again and that those responsible are held fully

accountable.” As those involved pursue their cases, I also urge you, as Penn

Staters, to be patient, to avoid speculation, and to refrain from passing

judgment until the facts are known.

As you are now aware, the Board of Trustees has asked me to serve as the

interim president of Penn State effective immediately. I undertake these

duties with a firm sense of resolve, and I ask for your support as we move

forward. And move forward, we must and we will.

Penn State has a long and storied tradition that has endured for more than 150

years. Our roots are deep, our constitution is resilient, and the importance

of our work is as vital today as it was last week - perhaps even more so in

the face of such adversity. We are 96,000 students, 46,000 employees, and

more than a half a million alumni. We are 24 campuses across the Commonwealth

and a World Campus. We are a university that is committed to its core values

of honesty, integrity, and community. We are a university that will rebuild

the trust and confidence that so many people have had in us for so many

years.

Through your conduct every day, you can play a role in restoring the

integrity, honor, and pride that have always characterized Penn State. I share

your anger and sadness in this time, but always remember that your actions

reflect on the entire Penn State community. Please set an example that will

make us all proud. Moving forward is the only responsible course to take in

the coming months. I ask for the full support of our faculty, students, staff,

and alumni, and in return I will do my best to lead this institution through

the challenges ahead.

Thank you for being a part of Penn State.

Nittany Lion Magazine