Letters To JoePa project

[Zenophile]

Here’s what I’ve seen

Debby Kevin

While deep in the archives at the Paterno Library, I stumbled upon something extraordinary—a cache of personal letters to and from Joe Paterno. For years, I’ve believed that Joe’s influence extended...

www.facebook.com

 

[Bob78]

dearjoepa.org

For those interested in this new way to honor Joe Paterno:

This project was created to honor Joe by having people submit their personal stories and "letters to Joe" via this project's site. There are memories from former players and team members, former coaches, and just plain ol' fans. The site was presented to SuePa on Friday Feb. 14th her 85th birthday.

The inventory of stories and letters will continue to grow, and people can subscribe to receive updates. (Note: I'm subscribed but have not received an update as of yet, but it's basically Day One of the public release).

Lots of sentimental remembrances, and lots of smiles to found by reading the stories - some touching, some funny. Hope you enjoy it.

(And if not interested, and/or not a JoePa fan, please strongly consider moving on without comment to a thread that interests you. Thank you.)

 

[MacNit]

dearjoepa.org

For those interested in this new way to honor Joe Paterno:

This project was created to honor Joe by having people submit their personal stories and "letters to Joe" via this project's site. There are memories from former players and team members, former coaches, and just plain ol' fans. The site was presented to SuePa on Friday Feb. 14th her 85th birthday.

The inventory of stories and letters will continue to grow, and people can subscribe to receive updates. (Note: I'm subscribed but have not received an update as of yet, but it's basically Day One of the public release).

Lots of sentimental remembrances, and lots of smiles to found by reading the stories - some touching, some funny. Hope you enjoy it.

(And if not interested, and/or not a JoePa fan, please strongly consider moving on without comment to a thread that interests you. Thank you.)

For those who think it’s a cult, it might open your eyes a bit.

 

[IBeBlockin]

Thanks Bob78 for posting! I’m a just thankful that I had a chance to be a fan when Paterno was coaching in his prime and helped put PSU on the map as a university. Coach Paterno was the greatest!

 

[Sharkies]

Just visited the site and watched the video of Joe Paterno visiting a fraternity in the wake of a brother’s tragic passing. That was the real Joe—compassionate, unwavering, and deeply committed to the people around him. The University and Board, so quick to cast him aside, erased decades of unparalleled dedication in an instant. He didn’t just serve Penn State; he embodied it, exceeding every conceivable expectation of loyalty, generosity, and service to the community.

I cannot fathom how his family bears it. Knowing the man he was, I couldn’t be the bigger person. I would be bitter, vindictive. And yet, Sue still gives—his possessions, her support, her grace. We do not deserve her. And maybe, in the end, we never deserved Joe either.

 

[bdgan]

Joe wasn't perfect as a person or as a coach but he made us take pride in our university. Success with honor was a real thing.

I remember his speech to the BOT after winning the NC. It wasn't about footbsll. It was about making the university #1 in academics.

PSU would have an 8-4 season but we took pride in the fact that we were doing it the right way. Then every 4-5 seasons the team would make a run at a title. Those days are sadly done.

 

[Marshall2323]

Just visited the site and watched the video of Joe Paterno visiting a fraternity in the wake of a brother’s tragic passing. That was the real Joe—compassionate, unwavering, and deeply committed to the people around him. The University and Board, so quick to cast him aside, erased decades of unparalleled dedication in an instant. He didn’t just serve Penn State; he embodied it, exceeding every conceivable expectation of loyalty, generosity, and service to the community.

I cannot fathom how his family bears it. Knowing the man he was, I couldn’t be the bigger person. I would be bitter, vindictive. And yet, Sue still gives—his possessions, her support, her grace. We do not deserve her. And maybe, in the end, we never deserved Joe either.

Well said. But PSU didn't deserve John Surma either.

 

[psuro]

Someone is in my office cutting onions.

Damn.

 

[Zenophile]

Additional info:

I am thrilled to announce the launch of DearJoePa.org, a unique platform designed to gather and showcase heartfelt stories of Joe Paterno's profound influence over the decades. As alumni leaders deeply connected to the spirit of Penn State, you are uniquely positioned to help us celebrate and preserve Joe’s enduring legacy.​

The idea for this "living biography" emerged after discovering a treasure trove of Joe’s personal correspondence in the Paterno Library archives. These letters revealed deep connections Joe fostered with friends, students, and colleagues, underscoring the impact of his mentorship and kindness. Please check out the site to see the incredible stories that have already been received!​

​

As we approach what would have been Joe Paterno’s 100th birthday on December 21, 2026, we invite all who have been touched by Joe's life and values to contribute to this collective tribute. DearJoePa.org offers everyone a chance to share their personal stories, letters, and photos, continuing Joe’s legacy of leadership and integrity.​

​

This project does not simply recount history; it actively engages our community in celebrating a man who shaped Penn State with his "Black Shoes, Basic Blues, No Names, All Game" philosophy. We believe that Joe's lessons and spirit resonate beyond his time with us, and your stories are a vital part of this narrative.​

Please encourage your chapter members to contribute their memories and reflections to DearJoePa.org. Submissions can be made digitally through the website or mailed to Dear JoePa, c/o Deborah Kevin, 501 W. University Pkwy, B2, Baltimore, MD 21210.​

​

Thank you for helping us ensure that Joe Paterno's legacy continues to inspire and guide the Penn State community and beyond. Should you have any inquiries, feel free to email us at [email protected].​

​

WE ARE!​

Debby '91​

Deborah Kevin Author, Editor, and Speaker www.deborahkevin.com | [email protected] | Shelf Life, Heart-Centered Marketing, Your First Year

 

[Bob78]

Additional info:

I am thrilled to announce the launch of DearJoePa.org, a unique platform designed to gather and showcase heartfelt stories of Joe Paterno's profound influence over the decades. As alumni leaders deeply connected to the spirit of Penn State, you are uniquely positioned to help us celebrate and preserve Joe’s enduring legacy.​

The idea for this "living biography" emerged after discovering a treasure trove of Joe’s personal correspondence in the Paterno Library archives. These letters revealed deep connections Joe fostered with friends, students, and colleagues, underscoring the impact of his mentorship and kindness. Please check out the site to see the incredible stories that have already been received!​

​

As we approach what would have been Joe Paterno’s 100th birthday on December 21, 2026, we invite all who have been touched by Joe's life and values to contribute to this collective tribute. DearJoePa.org offers everyone a chance to share their personal stories, letters, and photos, continuing Joe’s legacy of leadership and integrity.​

​

This project does not simply recount history; it actively engages our community in celebrating a man who shaped Penn State with his "Black Shoes, Basic Blues, No Names, All Game" philosophy. We believe that Joe's lessons and spirit resonate beyond his time with us, and your stories are a vital part of this narrative.​

Please encourage your chapter members to contribute their memories and reflections to DearJoePa.org. Submissions can be made digitally through the website or mailed to Dear JoePa, c/o Deborah Kevin, 501 W. University Pkwy, B2, Baltimore, MD 21210.​

​

Thank you for helping us ensure that Joe Paterno's legacy continues to inspire and guide the Penn State community and beyond. Should you have any inquiries, feel free to email us at [email protected].​

​

WE ARE!​

Debby '91​

​

Deborah Kevin Author, Editor, and Speaker www.deborahkevin.com | [email protected] | Shelf Life, Heart-Centered Marketing, Your First Year

The inventory of stories and remembrances has grown by a couple every day. A number of former players have submitted their stories. Fond memories and many smiles along the way.

 

[Zenophile]

The inventory of stories and remembrances has grown by a couple every day. A number of former players have submitted their stories. Fond memories and many smiles along the way.

Grassroots projects like this are key to preserving the legacy Joe and the Paterno family deserve (as opposed to the one attributed to him by Surma, Peetz, et al.).

 

[Moogy]

For those who think it’s a cult, it might open your eyes a bit.

It's DEFINITELY eye opening. But not in the way you meant it. Yikes.

 

[Bob78]

dearjoepa.org

For those interested in this new way to honor Joe Paterno:

This project was created to honor Joe by having people submit their personal stories and "letters to Joe" via this project's site. There are memories from former players and team members, former coaches, and just plain ol' fans. The site was presented to SuePa on Friday Feb. 14th her 85th birthday.

The inventory of stories and letters will continue to grow, and people can subscribe to receive updates. (Note: I'm subscribed but have not received an update as of yet, but it's basically Day One of the public release).

Lots of sentimental remembrances, and lots of smiles to found by reading the stories - some touching, some funny. Hope you enjoy it.

(And if not interested, and/or not a JoePa fan, please strongly consider moving on without comment to a thread that interests you. Thank you.)

If you haven't checked in on this site in a few days, there are now over 30 stories/letters in the inventory, many from former players. They are fun to read, and the inventory will continue to grow as the word about the site spreads among the former players and the vast fan base.
Enjoy!

 

[Mr. Potter]

I wonder if Sue Paterno ever dated after Joe's death.

 

[Zenophile]

More coverage.

Dear JoePa: The Project Bridging Generations Of Penn Staters Through Stories Of Joe Paterno

Alum Debby Kevin hopes to pass down valuable lessons Paterno brought to the world in celebration of what would have been his 100th birthday.

onwardstate.com

 

[ChandlerPearce58]

1989 my much younger brother achieved in Boy Scouts the rank of Eagle Scout....Joe sent him a letter of congratulations and even included how special that achievement is as only approximately 1% of all Boy Scouts attain that rank. That letter meant a lot to our family.

 

[LionJim]

1989 my much younger brother achieved in Boy Scouts the rank of Eagle Scout....Joe sent him a letter of congratulations and even included how special that achievement is as only approximately 1% of all Boy Scouts attain that rank. That letter meant a lot to our family.

I can imagine. My PSU grad sister had a friend who was dying of cancer in his 40s and someone arranged for Coach Paterno to call him, help him along.

 

[Achowalogan]

1989 my much younger brother achieved in Boy Scouts the rank of Eagle Scout....Joe sent him a letter of congratulations and even included how special that achievement is as only approximately 1% of all Boy Scouts attain that rank. That letter meant a lot to our family.

“Eagle Scout”, more than a rank earned, but a person one becomes, ….”Trustworthy “, etc….is the one honor achieved as a youth that remains on a resume for a lifetime ….

 

[JohnJumba]

What is with the BoT being obsessed with not honoring Joe, and what are their objective reasons?

 

[Bob78]

1989 my much younger brother achieved in Boy Scouts the rank of Eagle Scout....Joe sent him a letter of congratulations and even included how special that achievement is as only approximately 1% of all Boy Scouts attain that rank. That letter meant a lot to our family.

Send that great story to the project!

 

[ChandlerPearce58]

What is with the BoT being obsessed with not honoring Joe, and what are their objective reasons?

Only the executive board of the BOT know the answer to that....however if you read Graham's book (which is excellent and reveals much) you may surmise a few reasons....such as why the BOT was assisting Louie Freeh....why was Joe the target of the investigation....why the collusion between NCAA, PSU BOT, Louie Freeh, Governor's Office.....why were numerous key witnesses never questioned...all those dark secrets may come to light.

 

[Moogy]

The JoeBot cult is just like other organized religions ... it's awesome, when it's focused on positivity, and self-betterment. In and of itself, this project could be fabulous ... folks sharing stories of their positive interactions and influences regarding JoePa. "JoePa did this for me. JoePa's legacy means this to me and gives me strength." Etc. Can bring a sense of community to folks who otherwise wouldn't connect, or strengthens preexisting bonds.

But then you have too many folks who can't leave it at that. Instead they have to weaponize it. We see it on this thread. Create an enemy. Attack that enemy. Try to force your beliefs on others. Condemn them for not acting as you would. Awful, negative byproducts ... and far too many folks wallow in this aspect, and lose sight of what should matter. Tribalism and war. Negative obsession.

Sadly, if history is any indicator, it's inevitable.

 

[BobPSU92]

I hate us.

 

[JohnJumba]

Only the executive board of the BOT know the answer to that....however if you read Graham's book (which is excellent and reveals much) you may surmise a few reasons....such as why the BOT was assisting Louie Freeh....why was Joe the target of the investigation....why the collusion between NCAA, PSU BOT, Louie Freeh, Governor's Office.....why were numerous key witnesses never questioned...all those dark secrets may come to light.

I know Joe and had made fools of the BoT a many times over and that Spanier told the BoT and Corbett to shove some kind of lame revenue garbage they were trying to pull.

 

[JohnJumba]

I know Joe and had made fools of the BoT a many times over and that Spanier told the BoT and Corbett to shove some kind of lame revenue garbage they were trying to pull.

This was aside from the crap the BoT was pulling at TSM along with family and friends, and at the odious Charlie Brown
Airlines with Bruce the real estate King.

 

[Marshall2323]

Only the executive board of the BOT know the answer to that....however if you read Graham's book (which is excellent and reveals much) you may surmise a few reasons....such as why the BOT was assisting Louie Freeh....why was Joe the target of the investigation....why the collusion between NCAA, PSU BOT, Louie Freeh, Governor's Office.....why were numerous key witnesses never questioned...all those dark secrets may come to light.

The BOT assisted Freeh because they were being savaged for firing Joe (kneejerk). They needed Freeh to implicate Joe to justify their actions which were actually (at least in some cases) a vendetta. To be fair, Joe could be abrasive, and didn't help himself when (I think it was 2005, he told the story about refusing to retire).
The BOT gave Louis the Liar for Hire an outline....literally. His reply was he "couldn't guarantee the "desired" outcome." But for 8.3 million Freeh came up with a brilliant solution. He gave an oral summary....big press conference.....but none of his talking points were substantiated in the actual written report. I wonder how many here actually read the report? In fact on the draft of the report one of Freeh's investigator's hand wrote "no evidence at all" in reference to a cover up involving Joe, Tim, Graham etc.
Freeh was auditioning for work with the NCAA. Case closed.
The OGBOT and likely most of the current ones are just despicable human beings, who are used to screwing over people and because they are misanthropes have no conscience.
Rather than make things right, it was determined long ago that they would continue the lies and wait for us that knew better to die off.
Looking around I'm sad to say their plan is working. Congratulations!

 

[Marshall2323]

I hate us.

After this week....I agree and I'm not sure it's funny anymore.

 

[Bob78]

dearjoepa.org

Just fyi -
It's been a couple weeks, so in case you have not checked in on this project lately and are interested, there have been a few more stories added.