CEO Insights: Denouncing the Attacks on the U.S. Capitol

Each month, I write a column that shares stories about alumni I meet, highlights our amazing volunteers, or features a program or service we offer to our loyal members. I had one drafted and ready to go that talks about my New Year’s resolutions and the optimism that I have for 2021. Then January 6th happened, and our TVs and social media feeds were full of troubling images of my fellow Americans storming the US Capitol. 

I join President Barron and the Penn State community in denouncing these abhorrent acts. Click here to read his full statement.

Don’t worry, this is not a column about the political storm that has clouded our nation. It is about what we can do to spread the “We Are” way of life that defines us as Penn Staters.  

We say “We Are” to include everyone.

We say “We Are” because, while we have differences, we are united by much more.

And when we say, “We Are,” we do it with good manners. Remember, we end the cheer with “thank you” and “you’re welcome.”

Inclusion, unity, and courtesy, the world could use much more of this. Always remember who We Are and spread this to others. 

I hope this is something on which we can all agree.

May our lives swell thy fame of Dear Old State.

For the Glory,

Paul J. Clifford

CEO, Penn State Alumni Association

P.S. If you are interested in my original column, you can find it here.