Welcome to the Dear JoePa project, an endeavor steeped in heart and history, dedicated to celebrating the centennial of Joe Paterno’s birth on December 21, 2026. This initiative bridges generations, illuminating the profound influence of Joe Paterno, who coached at Penn State for sixty-one years. While his legendary tenure is well-known, many of the younger Penn Staters may not fully grasp the extensive impact of JoePa’s legacy.
During a research project at the Paterno Library, a treasure trove of Joe’s personal correspondence was unearthed, revealing deep connections he forged through letters. Shared on this website, these communications showcase the wide-reaching impact Joe had on individuals across various walks of life. This serendipitous discovery prompted us to ponder what other untold stories and extraordinary, ordinary experiences are out there, waiting to be shared.
As we approach what would have been Joe’s 100th birthday, we invite you—fans, former students, athletes, and community members—to contribute to this unique tribute. We encourage you to pen personal letters expressing how Joe touched your lives, sharing your stories of gratitude, memories, and reflections. These narratives not only honor Joe’s legacy but also help us understand our collective past and present.
Joe Paterno’s sudden passing left many without the opportunity to say “goodbye” or to voice their appreciation for his guidance and mentorship. The Dear JoePa project offers a space to articulate these feelings, celebrate Joe’s enduring legacy, and find closure, emphasizing the timeless need for storytelling and personal reflection.
This initiative draws inspiration from the “Letters to Heaven” depository at Avalon Park and Preserve in Stony Brook, New York—a place of reflection that demonstrates the healing power of writing. Similar to this thoughtful space, the Dear JoePa project seeks to provide a way for individuals to process their emotions and remember a pivotal figure in their lives.
Join us in ensuring that Joe Paterno’s contributions are remembered and appreciated by future generations. Share your letters and stories, and help us weave a rich tapestry that celebrates a truly remarkable life.
The three stories below beautifully illustrate the profound and personal impact JoePa had on individuals from various backgrounds. Each narrative showcases the meaningful, life-changing moments we encourage you to share, highlighting how Joe Paterno significantly influenced lives both on and off the field. Now it’s your turn!
A Special Gift for My Dad
Dear Mr. Paterno,
My name is Matthew Price. I live in Pottsville Pennsylvania. I am 13 years old. I have a brother Scott who is 11 years old.
The reason I am writing you is to ask you a very special favor.
My dad is going to be 50 years old this March. And I would like to do something very special for him.
You see Mr. Paterno, in the summer of 1997, my father done something special for me. That summer I had an opportunity to play little league and go to the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. I did just that and I don’t believe I could have without the help of my parents. My dad is a production supervisor in an aerospace plant and my mom is a registered nurse at a veterans hospital. In the summer of 1997 they both would come home from work and take my brother and I to the local baseball park to practice. It didn’t matter how tired they were, they both came along and we would practice till dark. Many nights I left the field thinking I would never make the team, but my dad would encourage me and believe that I could do it if only I would believe that I could. I made the team, which was exciting enough but we went to the regionals, districts, states and off to Williamsport to the Little League World Series we went, with my dad by my side. I was away from home a total of 3 weeks and my parents were there with me. I could see how proud they were that I was part of a team that has come this far. I don’t know if I could have done it if I didn’t have such support.
Mr. Paterno — I have only seen a proud look on my father’s face once after that and it was when you won your 300th win (see enclosed picture). My dad is a great Penn State fan. He tries to get up to see PSU play as often as he can, or when he can get tickets. He even tried to bid on the phone one night to come and have a meal with you and Mrs. Paterno. I believe it was a spaghetti meal. I hear Sue makes some great spaghetti. Well that brings me to my favor. With my dad turning 50 years old, I would like to do something special for him. I would like him to meet you in person. I know you are very busy, but anything you could do would be greatly appreciated. In March I would like to show my dad how much I have appreciated all he has done for me in achieving my dream and I would now like to fulfill one of his dreams, with your help. What a better and special time, when he turns 50 years old.
Enclosed is a picture of our team in Williamsport along with a picture of yourself going through the tunnel on your 300th win. That day my dad stood with tears in his eyes as you have walked through.
Mr. Paterno, could you help me achieve this request? My brother and I would really appreciate anything you could do. Looking forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Matthew Price
Scott Price
The Best Graduation Gift
In a touching video included in the film, “The People’s Joe”, Kelly Stultz shared her unexpected and unforgettable encounter with Joe Paterno, arranged as a graduation gift by her mother who couldn’t afford an extravagant present. Unaware of her mother’s plan, Kelly was surprised by a voicemail from Paterno during her last class at Penn State, inviting her to meet him. Overwhelmed with emotion, Kelly recounts the nervous excitement leading up to the meeting where Paterno, pulling himself away from an important meeting, warmly welcomed her, discussed her journalism major despite his known reservations about the media, and wished her luck. This cherished memory, captured in a photo and a heartfelt conversation, is a testament to Paterno’s gracious and humble character, leaving Kelly with an experience she’ll remember for a lifetime.
I’ll Never Forget That Day
In this heartfelt story excerpted from “The People’s Joe”, Bob Friedman shares a poignant memory from his time at Penn State, highlighting the compassionate nature of Joe Paterno. After a tragic accident claimed the life of fraternity brother Mike Septowski, the fraternity decided to honor Mike, an athlete and pianist, by purchasing a piano for their house. Without an appointment, Bob approached Joe Paterno to ask if he would attend the piano’s unveiling. To everyone’s surprise, not only did Paterno agree, but he also spent over two hours at the fraternity, engaging in genuine conversation and leaving an indelible mark on all who were present. This story not only showcases Paterno’s accessibility and kindness but also his profound impact on the lives of those around him.