We Are… Penn State: Strength, Heart, and Emotional Preparedness

As a proud Penn State alum, my school spirit and gratitude for my alma mater have only grown stronger with time. Penn State has shaped so much of who I am — not just as a meteorologist and professional communicator, but as a person. The lessons I learned there extend far beyond the classroom or the football field. They taught me about resilience, unity, and heart — the very same qualities I try to instill through Prepare with Cher.

This season has been a tough one for Penn State football. After high hopes, a string of difficult losses, and the firing of Coach James Franklin, emotions are running high. Watching the last moments of his final game — the way he took in Beaver Stadium one last time, as if he already knew what was to follow — was heartbreaking. What’s hurt even more has been seeing the anger, the booing, and even trash thrown from the stands.

That’s not the Penn State I know. That’s not who we are.

From everything I’ve seen and read, Coach Franklin led with heart. He cared deeply for his players, built the program back into national prominence, and gave us many seasons to be proud of. This year simply didn’t turn out the way we hoped. Our team came in highly ranked, ready to chase a national championship. And when those dreams crumbled, it hurt — not just the fans, but the players, the coaches, and the university community as a whole.

Adding to that heartbreak was seeing our quarterback, Drew Allar, get injured in the game against Northwestern — ending his season far too soon. My heart goes out to him. Drew gave it his all every single game, showing determination and leadership beyond his years. No one is perfect, but his effort and resilience represent what it truly means to wear the blue and white. I’m wishing him all the best for a full recovery.

As someone who teaches preparedness, I often remind people that storms — whether literal or emotional — are part of life. It’s not about avoiding them; it’s about how we weather them.

Emotional preparedness means managing disappointment, supporting others through setbacks, and responding with empathy instead of anger. This is one of those moments where we, as the Penn State family, can practice that kind of preparedness.

When times are tough, our character shows.

The Penn State alma mater says it best: “May no act of ours bring shame…”

Now is the time to live those words.

To show the world what “We Are” truly means — a community that lifts each other up, even in loss.

I also want to thank those of you who have reached out to check on us after the news of Coach Franklin’s firing and Drew’s injury. Your kindness and shared love for this university mean so much. Yes, I probably care more about this team than I should — but that’s what it means to have heart, and that’s what binds us as part of the Penn State family.

To Coach Franklin, to Drew Allar, to every player who has given their all this season — thank you. Your effort, passion, and perseverance embody the best of Penn State. And to my fellow Nittany Lion alumni and fans — let’s stand together in pride, not bitterness. Let’s prepare our hearts to move forward with grace, unity, and the belief that brighter seasons lie ahead.

Because we are… Penn State.

And we are prepared — in sunshine and in storms.

Written by Cheryl Nelson

Broadcast Meteorologist, Penn State Alum, and Founder/CEO of Prepare with Cher