Penn State officially announces Matt Campbell as its 17th head coach in football program history

Penn State football has officially announced former Iowa State head coach Matt Campbell as its 17th head coach. The university’s Board of Trustees’ Committee on Equity and Human Resources voted to approve his contract with the school on Monday morning. Terms of the deal were not immediately disclosed.

“I am incredibly honored to join Penn State University as its next head football coach,” Campbell said in a news release. “This is one of the blue bloods of college football, and this program’s history and tradition are unmatched. I look forward to building on that foundation by developing student-athletes on and off the field, competing for championships and continuing the legacy of excellence that defines Penn State.”  

I want to thank President Bendapudi and Pat Kraft for their trust and support throughout this process. I also want to express my deep gratitude to Iowa State University, its football program and the entire Cyclone community for the incredible memories and experiences my family and I have shared there. We will always cherish our time in Ames. My family and I are eager to become part of the Penn State community and get to work with the student-athletes, staff and fans who make this place so special.” 

Campbell will hold an introductory news conference with athletic director Pat Kraft and university president Neeli Bendapudi at Noon ET today.

More of what they’re saying about new Penn State coach Pat Campbell

Bendapudi and Kraft also released statements on Monday morning.

“From the start of our search, our mission was to find a proven leader who reflects Penn State’s integrity, toughness, and championship expectations,” Kraft said. “We also sought someone who has a demonstrated record of elite player evaluation and development, as well as the ability to retain top talent and assemble a strong staff. We found all that and more in Matt Campbell. For several years, Matt has been one of the most sought-after coaches for a reason, and we are fortunate that he is now our coach. In our discussions, it is clear that Matt understands and appreciates our storied history, our tradition and our high expectations. We are fired up to welcome Matt and his family to Happy Valley!”   

Said Bendapudi:

“Matt Campbell embodies the values that define Penn State: integrity, excellence, strength of character and a commitment to student success. He is a proven builder of strong cultures, a developer of elite student-athletes, and an inspiring presence both on and off the field. His dedication to leading young people and his unwavering competitive drive make him the right choice to lead our football program into its next chapter. We are proud to welcome Coach Campbell into the Penn State family and know he will have a lasting impact on our student-athletes and community. I want to thank and congratulate Pat Kraft on bringing this search to a successful conclusion. I know we both look forward to seeing the new heights Coach Campbell can achieve for Penn State Football.”