"The Lion’s Roar: Penn State Spirit," featuring historical photographs of Penn State's mascot, the Nittany Lion, will be on display through Dec. 30 in the main exhibit hall of Pattee Library, University Park.
As one of the most recognizable representatives of the University, the Nittany Lion has delighted, inspired and invoked pride in the thousands of people with whom he has interacted.
The exhibit focuses on the evolution of the Lion, beginning when he only existed as a verbal taunt against the Princeton baseball team. Today, the Lion serves as a figurehead for the University that is familiar to people across the country.
Much of the Lion's popularity can be attributed to the men behind the mask. These men transformed the role of the Nittany Lion into more than a just a football persona. These men invoked school spirit when they attended less popular sports such as fencing and track.
Bob Ritzmann, Penn State’s longest-reigning mascot, recalls his time in the suit from 1942–1945. He reminisces about skits he performed, journeys to away football games and the environment of a time passed. He is one of many Nittany Lions who shared their recollections for the Libraries' exhibit. Together, they paint a portrait of Penn State through the years.
The Lion also has been a figurehead at the Interfraternity/Panhellenic Dance Marathon, the nation's largest student-run philanthropy. The Lion helps maintain strong morale during the 46-hour marathon for dancers who are raising money for pediatric patients at Penn State Hershey Medical Center. He also has been known to attend charity and community events.
As an ambassador for the University, the Nittany Lion has done more than just greet prominent visitors to campus. He has acted as a recruiter for Penn State, encouraging children to explore the opportunities Penn State has to offer.
The University Libraries have created a seven-series commemorative bookmark to accompany the exhibit. Gifts of support to the Libraries will be acknowledged with the full, uncut collector's sheet of the Lion’s Roar Bookmark Series 2008.
For information or to make a gift, call (814) 865-2258 or visit http://www.libraries.psu.edu/development.
The exhibit is open to the public during library operating hours. Call (814) 865-3063 for a listing of general hours. For more information, contact Penn State University Libraries Public Relations and Marketing, (814) 863-4240.