If you want to understand what makes Penn State truly exceptional — not just as a university, but as a community built on spirit, service, and shared purpose — watch this video.
In just four minutes, you will witness something bigger than sport. You will see a common cause in motion. You will see culture lived out. You will feel shared values without anyone needing to say the words.
This is not just a highlight reel.
It is a master class in “getting it”.
You will see what it looks like when:
- Team comes before ego.
- Purpose is greater than performance.
- And “We Are” is not a slogan, but a lived experience.
This is Penn State at its finest.
This is Rise Above.
And this is what it looks like when people rally around something bigger than themselves.
This is what it means to carry the culture.
Rise Above is the nonprofit partner of Penn State’s adaptive athletics program, a pioneering effort in the Northeast to support student-athletes with physical disabilities. Originally launched in 1999 under the leadership of Coach Teri Jordan, the program produced several Paralympians and national champions while also creating recreational opportunities for students seeking community through sport. Today, Rise Above is building on that foundation to elevate Penn State into a leader in adaptive athletics, one that is inclusive, competitive, and community connected.
One Response
This week’s email theme seems to be “Culture”. Interesting combination of articles. I enjoyed all of them but I find the frustrations highlighted in the first article: “Somethings Been Off, But the Blueprint is Still Ours” and this article’s excitement exposing interesting contrasts. The first about a team founded on the Grand Experiment/Success with Honor but they appear to be adrift while the emerging Adaptive Sports program is using those same mantras to build its culture. Why not? It’s a proven success story. The “”Letter to Drew Allar from a PSU Alum” highlights the long term effects and power of a solid culture. Why else would a 15 year alum still feel the pull to support a 21 year old making $1m more with no fears of getting sent into battle? It’s that “culture” stuff every time!!!