Penn State Personalities

March 27, 2014 by Rachael David March 2014

Just like the homecoming queen and the star quarterback are the so-called celebrities at most high schools, every college has their own unique list of popular personalities that almost every student can identify – no matter how enormous the campus may be. Well, here in Happy Valley we have quite a few of these superstars who have earned their spot in the Penn State hall of fame. Though some are new to the territory and others have earned their title for unusual reasons, they have all made my list of the six names that every incoming student should become familiar with before arriving next fall.

1. Eric J. Barron – Officially named by the Board of Trustees this past President’s Day, Eric J. Barron will serve as our university’s 18^th president starting in May of 2014. This means that all you future students will be making your way to University Park at the dawn of a new era for Penn State. Though I don’t know much about our new president, I do know that it took quite an exhaustive search to find someone capable of taking on the task of leading this great institution, and we are all very anxious to see what he will do with the position. Though a relatively new addition to our list of celebs, Eric J. Barron is definitely one name we will all be hearing a lot of next year.

2. Megan Renaut – Yet another newcomer to the list is the newly appointed executive director of THON 2015, Megan Renaut. Announced just this past Monday, Megan was chosen from a group of candidates to lead the world’s largest student-run philanthropy in its 43^rd year of dancing and celebration. As organizing a work force of over 15,000 student volunteers is no easy task, it’s safe to say that Megan has a very big job ahead of her. Luckily, she has the love and support of the entire Penn State community right behind her. With the influence that THON has on the student population, you can bet the executive director is always a household name around here.

3. Mike the Mailman – Though I may be a tad bias, as he and I have become fast friends over the past two years, I think I speak for all students when I include Mike the Mailman as one of our most beloved celebrities. Since 1974 when he got the position as post office desk clerk, Mike has been spreading smiles and brightening the days of anyone and everyone who crosses his path. Famous for his monthly cookie contest and charming sense of humor, there’s nothing Mike enjoys more than the students and staff of this university – and it shows. I highly recommend stopping in at the post office across from the HUB and paying him a visit as soon as you get here – I guarantee he will make your day.

4. Willard Preacher – Oh, the Willard Preacher. I can honestly say I’m not quite sure where to begin with this one but, for the sake of my readers, I’ll try my best to explain. The Willard Preacher is a middle-aged man who can be seen almost every school day outside of the Willard building on the west side of campus. Though there are times when he has virtually no audience, the infamous personality relentlessly voices his opinions on the shameful sins and improper behavior that he seems to believe are ever-present throughout the Penn State student body. His strong opinions have gotten him into countless arguments with both the staff and students here but, no matter how intense they may get, he always returns to his perch right outside the steps of Willard. As the building is a very popular location for freshman year classes, I’m sure none of you will have a hard time finding this infamous icon. Though, if you’re easily offended, I would try my best to avoid him.

5. Squirrel Whisperer – As another Penn State figure with an anonymous identity, the squirrel whisperer has recently become quite well known here on campus. Though she appears to be just another student on the outside, she has an incredible gift. One that has allowed her to become close personal friends with virtually every one of the many squirrels found scurrying around this campus. She’s even named some of them and get this – she’s made them hats, which they willingly wear. I swear I couldn’t make this up. So, how do you become friends with a squirrel, you ask? Well, you’d have to ask her that. All I know is that anyone who can dress up a squirrel without getting their eyes scratched out is worthy of a little recognition.

6. James Franklin – Though I’m sure many of you are already quite familiar with this name by now, Coach James Franklin is certainly worth mentioning as one of Penn State’s most famous public figures. Ever since he was named head coach and made the move back to his home state to lead our dearly loved football team, Franklin has been making his mark on this university. He has attended numerous sporting events supporting all types of Penn State athletics and has even been seen shaking hands with State College residents downtown. With his valued title and highly anticipated plans for next year’s season, the name James Franklin will be on the lips of people all across Happy Valley for many years to come.