Joe Paterno’s legacy is evident. What an inspiration. He was one of kind.

What will the board of trustees’ legacy be? Numerous letters on this page have indicated that the board has lost the support and trust of the Penn State community and the alumni. The announcement of the firing of Paterno because he could not be expected to effectively perform his duties was cowardly.

Not one board member asked a question after being informed by the in-house counsel that they didn’t think “anything would come out of the grand jury investigations of Sandusky, because three prior grand juries never recommended charges against him.” Why?

Have they effectively performed their duties? Do any of these actions demonstrate leadership? You do have an opportunity to change your legacy; are you up to it? If so, show us.

The board is now working on big plans to honor Paterno. Here are some suggestions: a public apology to the Paterno family and Penn State for mishandling his firing; honoring his retirement; reinstating him as coach through the 2011 season; and renaming Beaver Stadium Paterno Field.

If the board wants to regain some dignity, they should resign and let Penn State start with a clean slate.

Carol Reilly Centre Hall