UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The electrifying entrance of the Penn State Nittany Lions football team is more than just a show of spirit and tradition — it's also a stage for student talent. Maddy Leach and PJ Jobson, both students in the Lighting Design Program in the Penn State School of Theatre, part of the College of Arts and Architecture, are responsible for operating the dynamic lighting effects in the team’s entrance tunnel at Beaver Stadium.
Every home game, more than 100,000 fans witness the Nittany Lions make their iconic entrance through the tunnel — an immersive moment powered in part by Leach and Jobson’s technical expertise and creative vision. The lighting cues, which sync with music, crowd energy and team timing, are critical in building the excitement and spectacle that fans have come to expect.
“Working on this project has been an incredible opportunity to apply what we’re learning in the classroom to a live, high-pressure environment,” said Leach. “It’s a thrill to be part of something that’s such a huge tradition at Penn State.”
Jobson added, “Lighting plays a big role in storytelling — whether it’s on a stage or in a stadium. It’s been exciting to bring our theatrical skills into the world of sports entertainment.”
The collaboration between the Penn State School of Theatre and Penn State Athletics reflects the University’s commitment to interdisciplinary learning and real-world experience. Students like Leach and Jobson are gaining hands-on professional training while enhancing one of the most memorable moments in college football.
For more information about the Lighting Design Program at the Penn State School of Theatre, visit theatre.psu.edu.