The Pennsylvania chapter of the National Organization for Women (NOW) received a written response last week from Penn State after the organization requested Joe Paterno's resignation.

Penn State President Graham Spanier sent a letter to Pennsylvania NOW stating he appreciates its response to Paterno's statements, university spokesman Tysen Kendig said.

Paterno's statements were made Jan. 2 during an Orange Bowl press conference, regarding the suspension of Florida State linebacker A.J. Nicholson from the bowl game because of sexual assault allegations.

According to a Pennsylvania NOW press release, Paterno said, "I think it is so tough, there are so many people gravitating to these kids. He may not have even

known what he was getting into. Somebody may have knocked on the door, a cute little girl knocks on the door. What do you do?"

In response to the statements, Pennsylvania NOW sent a letter to the university asking for Paterno to resign and apologize.

Kendig said the university has a clear stance that sexual assault is a serious issue. However, Kendig said Spanier feels "the coach meant no harm with his comments."

Pennsylvania NOW President Joanne Tosti-Vasey said both her and Spanier declined to release the letter from the university to the public.

Tosti-Vasey said she is working on a response to the letter but will not release her statements in the future.

"To be able to work with the university, the information now must be kept confidential," she said.

Penn State Football Communications Director Guido D'Elia said Paterno is a good role model to everyone, including coaches, universities and students.

"It's sad to know that now, words are more important than actions," he said.

The director of the Center for Women Students, Peggy Lorah, would not comment.