Guard the Statue

 It is homecoming week at Penn State, which means it is time to guard the lion.  Every year students gather to guard the lion from vandalism attacks during homecoming.  This event will be held tomorrow and it will include speakers, food, music, and Penn State pride. 

With homecoming week quickly approaching Happy Valley, there are many events to look forward to.  One of the reasons that make everyone so eager to participate in the events and all come together is because of the tradition. Tradition brings a sense of unity to the students and a reason to get involved. One of the annual, highly-anticipated homecoming traditions is the Guard the Lion Shrine event.

The Nittany Lion Shrine is without a doubt one of the most historic places on Penn State campus. It was donated during Homecoming in 1942 as a gift of the class of 1940. The sculpture is located across from the Paterno Library, near the recreation center and is in an isolated spot surrounded by trees. The Nittany Lion Shrine has become a symbol of Penn State. If you are a student here it is most likely a given you will take family pictures with the Nittany Lion Shrine at least once in your four years. The week of senior graduation it is always expected for extremely long lines to form just to get that picture of you in a cap and gown resting on the statue. Expect to see the shrine in most Penn State documentaries, advertisements, and videos.

The Nittany Lion Shrine in essence has become a symbol of strength for the school. It has proved its strength by surviving multiple vandalism attacks against it. The first incident of vandalism to the shrine actually started when Sue Paterno and her friend splashed orange paint on the Nittany Lion during the week of a Syracuse football game. Several other vandalism attacks on the Nittany Lion occurred afterward and now it is tradition for students and alumni to come together and guard the Lion Shrine every homecoming. The event is led by the Lion Ambassadors and it is always one of the best Homecoming traditions. The Guard the Lion Shrine event is always jam-packed and brings a strong sense of unity and strength to whoever joins. Expect guest speakers, a DJ, food and drinks, and a whole lot of spirit.

With all that has happened in the past year at Penn State University, the Nittany Lion Shrine represents strength more than ever. Expect a huge crowd this Homecoming time to come out, protect it, and support it.

The event will take place on October 5, 2012 from 10pm until midnight.

For more information see Happy Valley.