Sue Paterno hopped on stage at THON 2021 Saturday night to greet the virtual crowd and answer a few questions during the annual pep rally.

Paterno, a longtime supporter of THON and wife of the late Joe Paterno, began by affirming her support for the annual event and congratulating THON 2021’s dancers and volunteers.

“It’s magic. I’m so proud of all our students, the people who work so hard. And I love what we’ve accomplished over the years,” Paterno said. “I can’t thank the students enough for what they’ve done, and I’ve told everyone I meet in the whole world about this student-run philanthropy that’s done so well.

Paterno, a former English honors student at Penn State, also affirmed her love of Penn State’s libraries when responding to a few questions from her fans.

“I’ll tell you, since I was a student, the library has become an unbelievable place. I get a high when I go in, I still do. I love every floor and every new addition we do is magic. We’re lucky to have the library.”

Through answering a few other questions, Paterno retold fabled stories about guarding the Lion Shrine. She also provided some advice for current Penn State students.

“I fell in love with Penn State the day I moved in my freshman year, and I did everything I could to get everything I can out of this school,” Paterno said. “Learn what you can learn, make as many good friends as you can make, and enjoy yourself.”

Paterno wrapped up her appearance Saturday night by cracking a few jokes about leaving to go bar-hopping in downtown State College. She really is one of us!