A message from Interim Penn State President Rodney EricksonThis is one of the saddest weeks in the history of Penn State. It has beendifficult to comprehend the horrific nature of the allegations that wererevealed in the Attorney General's presentment last week. As a member of thePenn State community for 34 years, as a parent, and as a grandfather, I findthe charges as they have been described to be devastating, and my heart goesout to those who have been victimized and their families. This is a terribletragedy for everyone involved, and it will take some time to bring a measureof understanding and resolution to the community.In addition to the legal process under way, Penn State's Board of Trustees hasauthorized a full investigation "...to determine what failures occurred, whois responsible, and what measures are necessary to insure that this neverhappens at our University again and that those responsible are held fullyaccountable." As those involved pursue their cases, I also urge you, as PennStaters, to be patient, to avoid speculation, and to refrain from passingjudgment until the facts are known.As you are now aware, the Board of Trustees has asked me to serve as theinterim president of Penn State effective immediately. I undertake theseduties with a firm sense of resolve, and I ask for your support as we moveforward. And move forward, we must and we will.Penn State has a long and storied tradition that has endured for more than 150years. Our roots are deep, our constitution is resilient, and the importanceof our work is as vital today as it was last week - perhaps even more so inthe face of such adversity. We are 96,000 students, 46,000 employees, andmore than a half a million alumni. We are 24 campuses across the Commonwealthand a World Campus. We are a university that is committed to its core valuesof honesty, integrity, and community. We are a university that will rebuildthe trust and confidence that so many people have had in us for so manyyears.Through your conduct every day, you can play a role in restoring theintegrity, honor, and pride that have always characterized Penn State. I shareyour anger and sadness in this time, but always remember that your actionsreflect on the entire Penn State community. Please set an example that willmake us all proud. Moving forward is the only responsible course to take inthe coming months. I ask for the full support of our faculty, students, staff,and alumni, and in return I will do my best to lead this institution throughthe challenges ahead.Thank you for being a part of Penn State.