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Stories That Start at Penn State

  • Writer: Cheryl Nelson
    Cheryl Nelson
  • 6 hours ago
  • 2 min read

Some stories take years to recognize.

Others you can trace back to a place that shaped you long before you understood how deeply it would matter.


For me, so many chapters of my life — personally, professionally, and unexpectedly — keep leading back to Penn State.


Here's a throwback to my college days at Penn State.


Cheryl Nelson as a student at Penn State

Recently, I had the chance to sit down with The People of Penn State podcast to talk about that journey. We covered everything from almost choosing another university (still wild to think about) to stepping into broadcast meteorology, to creating Prepare With Cher LLC, my company focused on helping communities stay safe during extreme weather and natural hazards.


It reminded me how much of my foundation was built in Happy Valley, and how that foundation continues to open doors I never saw coming.


Cheryl Nelson featured in The People of Penn State Podcast

Click here to listen to my episode of The People of Penn State Podcast.

Click here to watch my episode of The People of Penn State Podcast.


At the same time, I’ve had the joy of partnering with Abigail Collins Co, a Penn State–founded brand creating beautifully made, elevated collegiate pieces. It’s inspiring to watch alumni build things with heart — things that represent Penn State in a way that feels modern, confident, and authentic.


Cheryl Nelson wearing Penn State clothing by Abigail Collins Co.

Between reconnecting with the Penn State community through the podcast and collaborating with a fellow alum’s brand, I’m reminded how connected we all still are — whether we graduated last year or decades ago.


Here's another throwback photo of my Penn State classmate Todd and me by the "map wall" in the Penn State Weather Center around the year 2000.


Cheryl Nelson with Penn State classmate Todd in the weather center

When Penn State is part of your story, it has a way of showing up again at the right moments, weaving new experiences into familiar roots.


It’s been a meaningful season, and I’m grateful for every opportunity to grow and connect.


WE ARE...

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