Join Rise Above for our Third Annual Fundraiser benefiting Penn State Adaptive Athletics. Experience an unforgettable program featuring a keynote by Terry Smith, an exclusive mix and mingle with coaches Matt Campbell, Mike Rhoades & others, a Penn State Letterman panel moderated by Steve Jones, a live performance by Grammy-winner Mike Reid, and the introduction of our outstanding adaptive student-athletes.
Rise Above hosted our Third Annual Fundraiser benefiting Penn State Adaptive Athletics. Guests experienced an unforgettable program featuring a keynote by Terry Smith, an exclusive mix and mingle with coaches Matt Campbell, Mike Rhoades and others, a Penn State Letterman panel moderated by Steve Jones, a live performance by Grammy-winner Mike Reid, and the introduction of our outstanding adaptive student-athletes.
We Are Family
We Are Family
Terry Smith
Keynote Speaker
Sue Paterno
Co-Host
Dana Harris
Co-Host
Steve Jones
Leader of
"We Are Family" Panel
Mike Reid
Grammy Winning Artist &
Penn State Football Letterman
Matt Campbell
Penn State Football Coach and Mix & Mingle Guest
When Penn State football faced its toughest crossroads, Terry Smith didn't just step up—he steadied the ship. His decision to remain on staff to support Coach Matt Campbell proves that his loyalty to this program runs deep. On July 25, 2026, we brought that same "Blue and White" spirit to the stage.
The evening featured an exclusive mix and mingle with coaches who champion our program, including Matt Campbell, Mike Rhoades & others.
Guests did not just attend dinner. They invested in athletes who train just as hard, sweat just as much, and wear the Penn State jersey with the same undeniable pride as any other collegiate competitor.
Terry Smith Keynote
Hear from interim head coach Terry Smith, joined by hosts Sue Paterno and Dana Harris.
Coaches Mix & Mingle
Connect with coaches Matt Campbell, Mike Rhoades & more who support our mission.
Meet the Athletes
Our current Penn State Adaptive Athletes will be officially introduced and celebrated.
Terry Smith Keynote
Heard from interim head coach Terry Smith, joined by hosts Sue Paterno and Dana Harris.
Coaches Mix & Mingle
Connected with Coach Matt Campbell & other Penn State coaches who support our mission.
Met the Athletes
Our current Penn State Adaptive Athletes were officially introduced and celebrated.
Letterman Panel
Enjoy an exclusive panel discussion featuring former Penn State Football Lettermen, moderated by Steve Jones.
Live Performance
Back by popular demand, Grammy Award-winning artist and former PSU player Mike Reid returns to perform.
Direct Impact
95¢ of every dollar goes directly to scholarships, equipment, training, and travel.
Letterman Panel
Enjoyed an exclusive panel discussion featuring former Penn State Football Lettermen moderated by Steve Jones.
Live Performance
Back by popular demand, Grammy Award-winning artist and former PSU player Mike Reid returned to perform.
Direct Impact
95¢ of every dollar goes directly to scholarships, equipment, training, and travel.
Your Impact
Your Impact
In just two years, we've gone from zero athletes and no coaching staff to a program that's making history.
8
STUDENT ATHLETES
First Wheelchair Basketball Team
PROGRAM MILESTONE
$100,000
TARGET FOR 2026
Left to Right: Max Malec, Jack Cunningham, Angel Guzman, Lucas Resch, Esther-Faith Henn, Lee Asher
Our Sponsors
Grand Experiment Sponsors
The Paterno Foundation
John & Karen Arnold
Hellene Runtagh
Mark Weinberger
Nittany Sponsors
Blue Sponsors
Larry
Brown
Ara
Kervandjian
White Sponsors
