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Blue and white
Blue and white are Penn State's familiar school colors, representing an identity shared by its athletic teams and university community.
Checked 2026-10-15 · Sources: Penn State Athletics — traditions
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Fact
An earlier color pairing
Penn State's original school colors were pink and black. The university's traditions page notes their later appearances in throwback clothing.
Checked 2026-10-15 · Sources: Penn State Athletics — traditions
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A mascot named for the landscape
The Nittany Lion takes its name from Mount Nittany, near University Park. The mascot recalls mountain lions that once lived in the region.
Checked 2026-10-15 · Sources: Penn State Athletics — traditions
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Old Coaly's campus connection
Before the Nittany Lion, students held a mule named Old Coaly in high regard. Penn State's traditions page distinguishes the beloved animal from an official mascot.
Checked 2026-10-15 · Sources: Penn State Athletics — traditions
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The Lion Shrine
Artist Heinz Warneke created the Nittany Lion Shrine during the summer of 1942. The sculpture became a lasting gathering point and symbol of Penn State identity.
Checked 2026-10-15 · Sources: Penn State Athletics — traditions
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The Beaver in Beaver Stadium
Beaver Stadium honors James A. Beaver, a former Pennsylvania governor and university trustee. The venue's name refers to his service rather than an animal mascot.
Checked 2026-10-15 · Sources: Penn State Athletics — stadium
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The We Are cheer
Penn State's traditions page dates the first stadium use of the We Are Penn State cheer to September 11, 1976. Cheerleaders helped establish it as a familiar crowd response.
Checked 2026-10-15 · Sources: Penn State Athletics — traditions
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