UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Continuing a seven-decade-long tradition, the Penn State Lion Ambassadors will host Guard the Lion Shrine this Homecoming weekend.
Guard the Lion Shrine, an event centered on the history and legend of the Nittany Lion Shrine, will take place from 9-11 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9. In addition to sharing the story of the Lion Shrine, the event will feature entertainment acts, games, food, and plenty of Penn State history.
“Guard the Lion Shrine is a fun event for all ages,” said Brandon Johnson, Lion Ambassadors president. “Immediately after the Homecoming parade, come and learn more about the tradition of guarding the beloved Lion Shrine with Lion Ambassadors and ROTC volunteers.”
All are welcome to attend this free Homecoming event. Special guests will include Sue Paterno, as well as the Penn State Blue Band, Whiplash, Coda Conduct, Ambitions, and Urban Dance Troupe.
Guard the Lion Shrine is based on the tradition of guarding the Lion Shrine from defacement by fans of rival universities. One of the best-known stories about guarding the Lion Shrine comes from when Sue Paterno and a friend covered the shrine in orange latex paint to encourage student interest in that year’s homecoming football game against Syracuse.
The Penn State Lion Ambassadors are the student alumni corps of the Penn State Alumni Association who aim to communicate the University’s history, personality and traditions to students, alumni and friends through tours and programming. Founded in 1981, the Lion Ambassadors serve as an important facet of student outreach for the Alumni Association. For more information, visit www.lionambassadors.com.